Always a fan of documentaries and short documentary series.  Some of the best of last year include these five:

A Michael J. Fox Movie

Created by Davis Guggenheim  of “An Inconvenient Truth” fame, this documentary is based on Michael J. Fox’s four books that “feels like an ’80s movie.” It is a well-done documentary that uses archive footage from Fox’s career, spanning his hit TV show “Family Ties” to the “Back to the Future” series to convey Michael’s career arc. The actor who is struggling with Parkinson’s is vulnerable and has a very clear emotional and reflective depth during his interview.  A well-loved actor who bore the brunt of a challenging disease, but with a strong spirit – his story is well worth the watch.

Pamela, A Love Story

Another fellow Canadian to Fox’s documentary, this one is equally compelling.  Similar to Fox’s documentary archive footage has been used well and the actress does well to show a softer intelligent, and eloquent side of her.  Maybe less known than Fox, Pamela shows many different facets of her personality here including turbulent milestones and vulnerabilities that were at times unexpected.  Another pleasure to watch and the fast pace of the movie makes it accessible and entertaining.

Stan Lee

A goliath of the comic book industry, ultimately Stan’s story is a love story and one that takes you through unexpected journeys guided by hard work and good timing.  This creative mind has a great story to tell given his impact on the entertainment industry.  Even if you are not into comic books, this is a great Disney+ documentary to watch, and the twists and turns are equally compelling.

Beckham (Docu-Series)

This four-part series takes you into the world of young fame, being hated and loved with an emotional rollercoaster of the soccer/football industry.  A great story that covers a very eventful life starting from a very young age.  I had low expectations but the direction and the editing have been wonderful in this one making it a fun and riveting watch.  Interesting take on how fame can be given and taken so easily by the masses.  Great cameos from other international soccer/football figures as well, happy to see Ronaldo again after so many years out of the limelight.

Supermodels

Apple TV’s supermodel takes us back to the 90s during the hyper supermodel area with the original 4.  With great interviews and tag lines, this is a very entertaining, almost non-guilty pleasure for who those who are not into fashion, but know well the impact these models had on 90’s culture.  Even George Michael’s Freedom 90 is discussed here, bringing back nostalgia and great icons of Gen X and early Millennial Generation’s childhoods.