I’m really into documentaries.  I love TV shows and movies, but documentaries are a happy in between – usually about an hour or just over an hour long which suites my schedule.  I find it more inspiring knowing there is a basis of truth or realism that comes with documentaries.  Here are a few of my picks of the more recent ones I had the pleasure of seeing:

Pamela, A Love Story (2023)

In line with other famous women who reached their peak at the turn of the century, Pamela’s story is one of misogyny and misrepresentation.  Being judged is nothing new, but the extent and the scale on women celebrities around that time is astounding.  Some will argue that her posing for adult magazines invite such press, but think what you will – this documentary shows a thoughtful and articulate person behind the popular image.

Amber: The Girl Behind The Alert (2023)

A very well paced and interesting story behind the Amber Alert concept.  A sad one when it came to the person behind the original name, but a happy one for the outcome and the many people saved because of the tragedy.  Worth the watch.

Moonage Daydream (2022)

A long one – but well worth the watch. David Bowie is a fascinating personality.  Although I felt a little confused by the passing and seemed chaotic at times.  This is a true representation of Bowie and his flamboyant and fantastical journey – that, in my opinion, was too short.  Editing could be cleaned up, but still enjoyable to watch and relatively easy to follow, especially if you are already a fan of Bowie.

The Rescue (2021)

I saw the movie, which was great (Thirteen Lives)!  But somehow the documentary is much more gut wrenching and I found more thrilling than the Hollywood production (which I repeat is also worth watching).   It documents the Tham Luang cave rescue, a 2018 mission that included international group of divers saving a junior football team from an underwater cave in north Thailand.

Val (2021)

Another sensitive and empathetic documentary of a fascinating person, and his eventual health issues.  His connection to his family and colleagues add a new dimension to the persona that I admired through many films (many I forgot he was in).  Having footage included of Kilmer shot by himself throughout his career, footage of his childhood, and home movies further made this an enduring film to watch.