The Best Documentary Movies of 2025

2025 is proving to be a significant year for documentaries, with filmmakers around the world experimenting and innovating within the genre. From in-depth investigations of current events to personal stories about influential figures, these films offer a powerful look at today’s world, often with remarkable access and stunning visuals. Festivals like Sundance, Cannes, and Toronto have showcased these groundbreaking works, which are both thought-provoking and historically important. This collection features the most compelling and critically acclaimed documentaries of the year.

‘Imago’ (2025)

Director Déni Oumar Pitsaev’s documentary offers a personal and insightful look at life in Chechnya. The film follows the everyday experiences and dreams of people living in a region with a difficult past. It won the top documentary prize at the Cannes Film Festival – a first for a Chechen film – and uses beautiful imagery to show the strength and perseverance of those facing hardship. Ultimately, it’s a moving story about the enduring spirit of people and the importance of cultural identity today.

‘Orwell: 2+2=5’ (2025)

Raoul Peck’s documentary offers a look into the life and powerful messages of author George Orwell, using a mix of old news footage and his own writings. The film shows how Orwell’s ideas about being watched and the twisting of facts are still relevant today, especially with the rise of the internet. Narrated by Damian Lewis, the documentary follows Orwell’s experiences during wartime and how they formed his important and lasting perspective. Premiering at Cannes, it’s a somber reminder of warnings from the past that weren’t listened to, and it encourages viewers to think critically about how language and beliefs shape our world today.

‘SLY LIVES!’ (aka The Burden of Black Genius) (2025)

Director Ahmir Questlove Thompson’s film tells the story of Sly Stone, a musical legend, from his band’s incredible success to its eventual decline. The documentary highlights the groundbreaking music Sly and the Family Stone created and the challenges faced by Black artists at the peak of their careers. Featuring previously unseen footage and interviews, the film reveals the personal struggles that came with fame and the weight of extraordinary talent. It was highly praised after its premiere at the Sundance Film Festival and offers a moving portrait of a true innovator who changed the face of funk and soul music.

‘The Eyes of Ghana’ (2025)

Award-winning director Ben Proudfoot’s documentary tells the story of Chris Hesse, a groundbreaking Ghanaian cinematographer. The film celebrates Hesse’s impact on African film and his important work recording Ghana’s history during times of change. Produced by Barack and Michelle Obama, it opened the TIFF Docs program in 2025. The documentary showcases Hesse’s artistic talent and technical skill in capturing the essence of a nation through film, and demonstrates how cinema can preserve culture for future generations.

‘Deaf President Now!’ (2025)

Directed by Nyle DiMarco and Davis Guggenheim, this documentary tells the story of the groundbreaking 1988 protests at Gallaudet University. The film details the eight-day student movement demanding that the world’s only university for the deaf appoint a Deaf president. Using both historical footage and recent interviews, it shows how four student leaders effectively challenged the university’s board and made history. Premiering at Sundance, the film highlights the continuing struggle for disability rights and representation, offering a compelling look at the power of working together to achieve equality.

‘The Six Billion Dollar Man’ (2025)

This documentary, directed by Eugene Jarecki, delves into the story of Julian Assange and the controversies surrounding WikiLeaks. The film closely examines the legal and political fallout from the organization’s disclosures, and won a special prize at the Cannes Film Festival for its thorough and unbiased approach to a challenging topic. Through interviews with people central to the case, it explores what WikiLeaks means for journalism, government openness, and how we understand information today.

‘John Candy: I Like Me’ (2025)

This documentary is a celebration of the life and work of John Candy, the much-loved Canadian comedian and actor. Through interviews with his family and friends, the film shares personal anecdotes about his career and his influence on comedy. It premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and provides a touching look at a comedic legend. The documentary traces his journey to stardom and explains why his performances in classic movies continue to resonate with audiences. Ultimately, it’s a heartfelt tribute to a man who brought laughter to people all over the world.

‘Love+War’ (2025)

This documentary, directed by Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin, offers a compelling look at the life and career of renowned war photographer Lynsey Addario. The film follows Addario as she travels the world documenting conflicts, showing the challenges she faces both professionally and personally. It powerfully illustrates the risks and emotional impact of reporting from dangerous war zones and humanitarian crises. Premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival, the film underscores the vital role visual journalism plays in sharing important, yet difficult, stories and reveals the bravery and commitment it takes to document history firsthand.

‘Below the Clouds’ (2025)

In this thoughtful documentary, director Gianfranco Rosi intimately portrays the lives of a community living near Mount Vesuvius. The film quietly observes the everyday lives and environmental worries of the people who live there. Having premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival, it continues Rosi’s focus on humanity in extraordinary settings. The story highlights the strong bond between the residents and their land, exploring ideas of history and the passage of time. The result is a beautiful and visually stunning depiction of a place deeply shaped by the natural world around it.

‘2000 Meters to Andriivka’ (2025)

Award-winning filmmaker Mstyslav Chernov bravely returns to Ukraine to document the devastating impact of the war. His powerful new film focuses on the experiences of both soldiers and civilians in the village of Andriivka, offering a raw and honest portrayal of life during the invasion. Premiering at Sundance, this project continues Chernov’s dedication to truthfully capturing the realities of the conflict and serves as an important historical record.

‘Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore’ (2025)

Shoshannah Stern’s documentary tells the story of Marlee Matlin, the groundbreaking Deaf actress who won an Oscar. The film looks at the obstacles she overcame in Hollywood and her dedication to improving representation for Deaf people. Through personal stories and interviews, it offers a complete picture of her pioneering career. Premiering at Sundance, the film also emphasizes the continuing push for a more inclusive entertainment industry. It’s a truly inspiring look at a woman who leveraged her success to make a real difference.

‘SALLY’ (2025)

Cristina Costantini’s documentary tells the story of Sally Ride, America’s first female astronaut. The film reveals both Ride’s public achievements and her personal life, including her decades-long relationship with Tam O’Shaughnessy. Through interviews and historical footage, the documentary offers a fresh look at Ride’s impact and the challenges she overcame. Premiering at Sundance, the film examines the pressures faced by those who push boundaries in science, portraying Ride as a groundbreaking woman who navigated a complicated personal life while inspiring a nation.

‘Lilith Fair: Building a Mystery’ (2025)

This documentary explores the story of Lilith Fair, the groundbreaking all-female music festival, and its lasting impact. Through interviews with founder Sarah McLachlan and other artists who performed, the film examines the festival’s cultural importance in the late 1990s and the obstacles women faced in the music industry. It celebrates the sense of community and empowerment Lilith Fair created, while also showcasing the music that captured a generation. The film, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival, offers a heartfelt and insightful look back at a key moment in music history.

‘Predators’ (2025)

Director David Osit’s documentary takes a close look at the controversial TV show that aimed to catch child predators, charting its initial success and eventual decline. The film investigates the ethical questions and legal ramifications raised by the show’s methods, featuring interviews with people who worked on it, as well as its critics. Premiering at Sundance, the documentary examines how media, the justice system, and public fascination collided in the early 2000s, offering a compelling look at a sensational moment in television history.

‘The Perfect Neighbor’ (2025)

Director Geeta Gandbhir’s documentary explores a fatal neighborhood conflict in Florida, revealing the impact of “stand your ground” laws. Using police bodycam footage and interviews, the film reconstructs the events leading to a tragic death. Premiering at Sundance, it offers a disturbing look at how fear and laws can combine to create violence. The documentary also considers the wider social and legal effects of this case on communities nationwide, making it a thought-provoking and important look at current legal issues.

‘Life After’ (2025)

Director Reid Davenport’s documentary tells the story of Elizabeth Bouvia, a woman with a disability who fought for the right to choose how her life ended, a case that became a national conversation. The film looks into what happened to Bouvia after she stepped away from public view following years of legal battles. Premiering at Sundance, it offers Davenport’s personal take on the importance of independence and value in the lives of people with disabilities. The film questions common beliefs about dignity and the rights of disabled individuals, presenting a moving and deeply felt look at an important civil rights case.

‘Selena y Los Dinos: A Family’s Legacy’ (2025)

As a huge Selena fan, I was completely captivated by Isabel Castro’s documentary. She used amazing archival footage I’d never seen before to tell the story of Selena and her family’s incredible journey. It really showed how they started from playing little shows to becoming famous all over the world. I first saw it at Sundance, and it felt like a fresh, personal look into their lives and how Selena became the musical icon we all adore. It’s a beautiful celebration of her legacy and, even more so, the strong bond she shared with her family. It’s truly an intimate and vibrant tribute to the Queen of Tejano music.

‘Canceled: The Paula Deen Story’ (2025)

This documentary by Billy Corben takes a close look at the scandal that impacted celebrity chef Paula Deen’s career. The film explores what happened when the story broke, and how it sparked a larger discussion about race and responsibility in the media. Premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival, it features interviews that shed light on the controversy. The film details Deen’s success building her cooking empire, and how quickly public opinion can turn in today’s digital world. Ultimately, it’s a thoughtful look at a key moment in how we deal with celebrities and public figures.

‘Teenage Wasteland’ (2025)

In their new film, directors Jesse Moss and Amanda McBaine explore the divides within an American small town. The documentary follows the lives of residents as they grapple with local challenges and head towards an election. Premiering at Sundance, the film offers a realistic look at modern American life, focusing on both the conflicts and the connections between people. It’s a powerful and relevant snapshot of a country facing important decisions.

‘Speak.’ (2025)

The documentary follows a group of talented spoken word artists as they prepare for and compete in a high-stakes public speaking competition. It offers a behind-the-scenes look at their creative journeys and the personal experiences that fuel their performances. Premiering at Sundance, the film emphasizes how important it is for young artists to find and use their voices. Viewers will witness the competitors’ struggles and successes as they bravely share their stories on stage. Ultimately, it’s a moving tribute to the art of spoken word and its power to inspire.

‘A Life Illuminated’ (2025)

In the documentary, director Tasha Van Zandt joins marine biologist Dr. Edie Widder as she ventures into the deep ocean to film bioluminescent creatures. The film showcases incredible, never-before-seen underwater footage and premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival. It emphasizes the value of deep sea exploration for scientific discovery, blending Dr. Widder’s personal story with stunning visuals to create a sense of awe for the ocean’s mysteries. The result is a visually captivating exploration of a largely unknown world.

‘Whistle’ (2025)

Christopher Nelius’s documentary offers a fascinating glimpse into the surprisingly competitive world of international whistling. The film follows a group of dedicated whistlers as they prepare for a championship, sharing their love for this unusual art form. Premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival, it’s a charming and lighthearted look at a unique subculture, revealing the skill and dedication it takes to master a talent that’s often underestimated. Ultimately, it’s a heartwarming story about people finding joy in their singular passion.

‘Nuns vs. The Vatican’ (2025)

In her film, director Lorena Luciano follows a group of nuns as they bravely confront abuse allegations and push for change within the Catholic Church. The documentary chronicles their fight for justice for survivors, challenging established powers from within. Premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival and executive produced by Mariska Hargitay, the film offers a compelling look at the internal battles for accountability and the important role women play in the church. It’s a powerful story about the strength of those working to create lasting change.

‘The Balloonists’ (2025)

Director John Dower’s documentary follows a team of adventurers as they attempt to circumnavigate the globe in a hot air balloon. The film showcases both the detailed technical work and the emotional challenges the crew faces during their incredible journey. Premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival, it features stunning aerial views and delves into the history of ballooning, as well as the personal reasons driving these individuals to pursue such a daring record. Ultimately, it’s a visually impressive and exciting story about human ambition and the desire to explore.

‘Modern Whore’ (2025)

Director Nicole Bazuin’s documentary offers a personal and insightful look into the lives of people working in the sex industry. Based on Andrea Werhun’s book, the film explores the connections between work, sexuality, and personal identity. Premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival, it aims to break down common stigmas surrounding sex work. Through close-up interviews and compelling visuals, the documentary presents a complex and often misunderstood world with honesty and detail.

‘BTS Army: Forever We Are Young’ (2025)

The documentary, directed by Patty Ahn and Grace Lee, explores the worldwide phenomenon of BTS’s dedicated fanbase, known as the ARMY. It follows fans across the globe as they share their personal connections to the band and the supportive community they’ve created together. Premiering at SXSW, the film delves into themes of identity, self-expression, and the universal desire for belonging. While celebrating the positive impact of BTS, it also acknowledges the difficulties faced by their fans. Ultimately, the film offers a thorough look at a truly important cultural movement of our time.

‘Uvalde Mom’ (2025)

This documentary shares the incredible story of Angeli Rose Gomez, a mother who bravely protected her children during a mass shooting. The film follows her as she seeks justice and works to improve her community after the tragedy. Premiering at SXSW, it offers a deeply moving and personal look at how gun violence affects families and towns. It’s a story about a parent’s extraordinary courage in the face of unimaginable hardship and the long road to recovery. This film serves as an important and impactful record of a pivotal event.

‘ASCO: Without Permission’ (2025)

This documentary tells the story of ASCO, a groundbreaking Chicano art collective, and how they changed the art world in Los Angeles. Through interviews with the group’s remaining members and footage from their bold performances in the 1970s, the film shows how they pushed against cultural and political norms. Premiering at SXSW, it demonstrates ASCO’s lasting impact on artists and activists today, offering a lively and insightful look at an important moment in American art history.

‘We Are Storror’ (2025)

Director Michael Bay’s new documentary follows the famous parkour team Storror on what could be their last big adventure. The film showcases their amazing athletic skills and the strong friendships they’ve built over years of training. Premiering at SXSW, it offers a unique view of the city through the eyes of these athletes, highlighting the difficulties of growing up and building a career around street culture and social media. It’s a fast-paced, visually stunning look at modern athleticism.

‘The Secret of Me’ (2025)

Director Grace Hughes Hallett’s documentary tells the story of an intersex person learning the truth about their past medical care and upbringing. The film follows their emotional journey of self-discovery as they grapple with the harmful medical practices and societal prejudice they faced as a child. Premiering at SXSW, it offers a compassionate and insightful look at a topic often shrouded in misunderstanding. The documentary powerfully highlights the importance of owning one’s body and having access to complete medical information, ultimately serving as a deeply moving and enlightening exploration of personal identity.

‘Arrest the Midwife’ (2025)

Director Naiti Gámez’s film follows midwives as they fight for the right to continue offering traditional care to their communities. It shows the personal and legal challenges these practitioners face, including prosecution, as they work to gain recognition for their profession. Premiering at SXSW, the film examines how healthcare, tradition, and the law intersect, emphasizing the importance of having diverse options for maternal health and the commitment of those who support families. It’s a compelling look at a crucial issue in today’s reproductive rights landscape.

‘Dear Tomorrow’ (2025)

Director Kaspar Astrup Schröder’s documentary offers a heartfelt look at a Japanese mental health hotline dedicated to helping men struggling with loneliness and crisis. The film follows both the hotline staff and the men who call, revealing the emotional challenges of a growing loneliness epidemic. Premiering at SXSW, it’s a compassionate exploration of our basic need for connection and understanding, and examines the societal issues that lead to isolation. Ultimately, the documentary is a powerful and relevant portrayal of mental health today.

‘The Spies Among Us’ (2025)

The documentary, directed by Jamie Coughlin Silverman and Gabriel Silverman, tells the story of a man who was watched by the Stasi, East Germany’s secret police, and his journey to face those who monitored him. It examines the long-term effects of being under surveillance and the struggle to find peace after the Berlin Wall came down. Premiering at SXSW, the film features compelling interviews with both former secret agents and the people they targeted. It’s a powerful exploration of the human and moral consequences of a system based on mistrust and hidden activity, offering a vital look at a challenging time in history.

‘BLKNWS: Terms & Conditions’ (2025)

Director Khalil Joseph has turned his celebrated art installation into a thought-provoking documentary that examines the influence of large media corporations. The film offers a unique and captivating look at what a news program created by and for Black people might be like, challenging conventional storytelling. Premiering at Sundance, it delves into issues of representation and identity, urging audiences to question how news is made. It’s a daring and innovative film that redefines what a documentary can be.

‘Cutting Through Rocks’ (2025)

The documentary, directed by Sara Khaki and Mohammadreza Eyni, tells the story of Sara Shahverdi, the first woman elected to a village council in Iran. The film showcases her fight against traditional expectations as she works to improve life for her community. Premiering at Sundance, it offers a compelling look at the challenges of achieving gender equality in a traditional society. It’s a deeply personal and inspiring film about a determined leader striving to build a better future, and a powerful portrait of a woman breaking new ground.

‘GEN_’ (2025)

Director Gianluca Matarrese’s documentary offers a personal and intimate look at a Milan-based doctor who helps patients explore their gender identity through hormone therapy. The film simply observes the doctor’s consultations, showing the challenges and complexities his patients face as they seek to live truthfully. Premiering at Sundance, it provides a straightforward and insightful view of transgender issues in Italy today, focusing on individual stories rather than political debate. Ultimately, it’s a caring and informative addition to the ongoing conversation about gender.

‘Move Ya Body: The Birth of House’ (2025)

Director Elegance Bratton’s documentary tells the story of how house music was born and grew in Chicago during the 1980s. Through interviews with the musicians who created the genre and rare footage from iconic clubs, the film captures a defining moment in music history. Premiering at Sundance, it examines the important cultural impact house music had, especially for communities that were often overlooked. The film shows how this sound spread around the world and continues to inspire music today, offering a lively and heartfelt look at a groundbreaking musical movement.

‘Zodiac Killer Project’ (2025)

In this documentary, director Charlie Shackleton looks at our continued interest in an infamous, unidentified serial killer. The film thoughtfully questions the ethics and typical approaches of true crime stories, and how this particular case has influenced popular culture. After premiering at Sundance, it asks viewers to think about why some mysteries so strongly capture our attention. The documentary uses a creative style to blend facts, fictionalized accounts, and the way the media often sensationalizes these cases, making it a unique and insightful addition to the true crime genre.

‘Third Act’ (2025)

In this heartfelt documentary, director Tadashi Nakamura shares the story of his father, Robert A. Nakamura, a pioneering figure in Asian American filmmaking. The film follows Robert’s impressive career and his courageous fight with Parkinson’s disease. Premiering at Sundance, it’s a deeply personal look at the bond between father and son, built on their mutual passion for art. It thoughtfully examines themes of legacy, social activism, and facing life’s final chapter, ultimately serving as a moving and inspiring tribute to a truly impactful artist.

‘Endless Cookie’ (2025)

This documentary, directed by Seth and Peter Scriver, follows two half brothers as they travel across Canada. It’s a visually striking film that combines real footage with animation to delve into questions of identity and their connection to their Indigenous roots. Premiering at Sundance, the film offers a new take on the classic road trip story, capturing the brothers’ personal journeys and discoveries as they explore both the land and their family history. It’s a creative and moving look at family and culture.

‘True North’ (2025)

Director Michèle Stephenson’s documentary examines the 1969 student protests at Sir George Williams University in Montreal, which were sparked by racism. Using old film footage and interviews with people who took part, the film tells the story of the protest – often called the ‘computer riot’ – and what happened afterward. It first shown at the Toronto International Film Festival, the documentary sheds light on an important, yet often forgotten, chapter in Canada’s fight for civil rights. The film explores the underlying problems that caused the protest and how its impact continues today. It’s a thorough and vital account of a time of social unrest and progress.

‘Powwow People’ (2025)

As a real cinema lover, I was deeply moved by Sky Hopinka’s documentary. It’s a beautiful exploration of powwows – these incredible gatherings that are so central to Indigenous life in North America. The film isn’t a typical documentary; it’s more poetic and flows in a really unique, non-linear way, which perfectly captures the energy of the powwows themselves. Through interviews with dancers, singers, and organizers, it really gets to the heart of what these events mean to Indigenous communities – it’s all about tradition, connection, and celebrating a culture that’s very much alive and thriving. It premiered at TIFF and honestly, it’s just a visually stunning and incredibly respectful piece of filmmaking.

‘Degrassi: Whatever It Takes’ (2025)

This documentary tells the story of Degrassi, the long-running and beloved Canadian TV series. Through interviews with the show’s creators, actors, and dedicated fans, the film explores how Degrassi has impacted viewers for generations. Premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival, it examines how the series tackled important and relatable issues for teenagers. The documentary is both a celebration of Degrassi’s lasting influence and an insightful look at its contribution to modern television drama, offering a nostalgic and informative journey into a true cultural icon.

‘EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert’ (2025)

This documentary takes a look back at Elvis Presley’s incredible concert career and how he changed live music. Featuring newly restored concert films and interviews with people who worked alongside him on tour, the film offers a fresh look at Elvis’s captivating performances and stage presence. It explores the groundbreaking technology used in his shows and the special bond he shared with his audience. Ultimately, it’s a visually stunning celebration of a music legend, and premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival.

‘You Had to Be There: How the Toronto Godspell Ignited the Comedy Revolution…’ (2025)

This documentary tells the story of how the 1972 Toronto production of the musical Godspell helped launch the careers of many famous comedians. Featuring interviews with cast members like Martin Short and Eugene Levy, the film looks back at the show’s vibrant and creative atmosphere. It premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and explores how Godspell influenced the development of comedy across North America. It’s a funny and insightful look at a key moment in theater history.

‘Palimpsest: The Story of a Name’ (2025)

This intimate documentary follows a filmmaker’s journey to uncover the story behind their family name. It’s a personal exploration of memory, where they come from, and how a name can connect us to the past. The film, which debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival, is visually creative and uses a thoughtful, reflective approach. By blending personal experiences with historical research, it tells a moving and original story about the links between language, who we are, and our history.

‘While the Green Grass Grows’ (2025)

Peter Mettler’s latest film is a sweeping, multi-layered documentary that feels both like a personal journal and a thoughtful look at the natural world. Spanning several years, the film shares Mettler’s observations and reflections on his surroundings. Premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival, it uses a poetic, essay-like approach to ponder big questions about life and our relationship with the environment. Combining breathtaking visuals with a contemplative narration, the film offers a deeply immersive experience. It’s a significant and beautifully crafted work from a highly skilled documentary filmmaker.

‘Aki’ (2025)

In this stunning documentary, director Darlene Naponse explores the deep connection between Indigenous people and the land. Through personal stories and thoughtful reflections, the film reveals the spiritual and practical ways Indigenous communities relate to the environment. Premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival, it powerfully advocates for land sovereignty and responsible environmental care. The film unfolds at a deliberate, respectful pace, mirroring the natural world and the lives of those who live in harmony with it. Ultimately, it’s a vital and moving look at how culture and land are intertwined.

‘Ni-Naadamaadiz: Red Power Rising’ (2025)

Director Shane Belcourt’s documentary tells the story of the Red Power movement in Canada and how it fought for Indigenous rights. Through interviews with those who led the movement and historical footage, the film covers major protests and political events. Premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival, it offers a thorough examination of the fight for self-governance and fairness, showing how the movement’s impact continues to inspire Indigenous activism today. It’s a powerful and motivating account of bravery and progress.

‘Come See Me in the Good Light’ (2025)

Director Ryan White’s documentary follows poets Andrea Gibson and Megan Falley as they cope with incurable cancer, exploring love, life, and death along the way. The film, which premiered at Sundance and was produced by Tig Notaro and Jessica Hargrave, offers a personal and surprisingly funny look at their relationship through a challenging time. It’s a moving story about how art and connection can help us face even the most difficult circumstances, and a testament to the strength of the human spirit.

Please share your favorite documentary from the 2025 festival season in the comments.

2025-12-28 16:25