Are you overwhelmed by the sheer number of documentaries available on streaming services? Do you find it difficult to choose what to watch with so many options at your fingertips? Well, fear not! Each month, we’ll be highlighting three nonfiction films that are sure to reward your time and attention.
First up is “Chronicle of a Summer” from 1961, available to stream on the Criterion Channel. This groundbreaking documentary is essential viewing for anyone interested in the origins of cinema-vérité, a major concept in nonfiction filmmaking. Unlike the “direct cinema” school of filmmaking, “Chronicle of a Summer” features the filmmakers as on-camera presences, engaging with their subjects in a unique and thought-provoking way.
Next, we have “Tokyo Olympiad” from 1966, available on the Criterion Channel and Max, as well as for rent on Google Play and Apple TV. This documentary captures the 1964 Olympics in Japan with stunning widescreen cinematography, showcasing not only the athletic events but also the pageantry, crowds, and Cold War politics surrounding the games. It’s a visual feast that is best experienced on a large screen.
Lastly, we have “We Kill for Love: The Lost World of the Erotic Thriller” from 2023, streaming on Tubi and available for rent on various platforms. This nearly three-hour documentary explores the wave of direct-to-video soft-core erotica that dominated the 1990s, shedding light on a genre that has been largely forgotten in the internet age. With a mix of archival footage and insightful commentary, this film offers a unique look at a niche corner of cinema history.
So, if you’re looking for some quality nonfiction films to add to your watchlist, be sure to check out these three recommendations. They’re sure to entertain, educate, and inspire you in equal measure.
