If you want a break from the fictional movie scene, then try a documentary! Documentaries can tell the inspiring, powerful, even heartbreaking stories of people from all over the world. They're also an innovative way to spread news and information that's more than just the written word. I've compiled a list of my favorite, must-see documentaries in no particular order:
1. "The Women's List"
This documentary follows 15 different women in America who have had a powerful impact on society. They tell their stories like they've never been heard before. It's inspiring and powerful.
2. "Autism in Love"
Falling in love and maintaining relationships are never easy. This documentary follows a few adults living with autism and trying to make lasting connections in their worlds.
3. "Bridegroom"
This emotional documentary follows the story of a gay couple's life; and how it was destroyed after an untimely death. Be ready to shed some tears.
4. "Miss Representation"
An interesting look at how the mainstream media doesn't allow for adequate representation of women. The documentary has interviews with inspiring feminist icons as well as young women to show how they're affected.
5. "Restrepo"
This documentary is a powerful look at young soldiers who are stationed in Afghanistan. It gives the viewer an inside look at what life is like for these brave men.
6. "Which Way is the Front Line from Here? The Life & Time of Tim Hetherington"
Tim Hetherington was one of the filmmakers of "Restrepo." He dedicated his life to war journalism and conflict reporting. After he was killed in Libya, his friends honored him with a documentary. It's inspiring. It's powerful. It's great.
7. "A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness"
This documentary won an Oscar for best short subject. It looks at honor killings in Pakistan and the impact of the judicial system on affected women.
8. "Living on One Dollar"
Four young friends live in Guatemala for two months in order to experience what poverty is like. They try to make it on $1 a day.
9. "Hot Girls Wanted"
This documentary follows a group of young women who are hoping to break into the porn industry. They all have their reasons. Watch in order to find out if they make it.
10. "Matt Shepard is a Friend of Mine"
A heartbreaking documentary that is told by the friends and family of Matt Shepard, a young, gay man who was tragically murdered in 1998.