In a year where it seemed like every iconic figure had their story told through the lens of documentary filmmaking, it’s hard to pick the ones that truly stand out.
From a fresh and unique take on a founding father to a revealing portrait of a beloved Ukrainian restaurant in the heart of New York City, these are the titles that sparked conversations and have stayed with us throughout the year.
‘Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story’
A raw, unfiltered look at the man behind the Superman legend, Super/Man takes us through Christopher Reeve’s extraordinary life and career, both before and after his life-altering horse-riding accident in 1995. It also delves into his relationship with his wife Dana and the lasting impact they left behind. Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story premieres on Dec. 7 on HBO and Max, both owned by Warner Bros.
‘Diane von Furstenberg: Woman in Charge’
In a year that has felt challenging for issues related to gender and equality, Diane von Furstenberg’s story stands as a powerful example of a woman thriving in the business world while empowering others along the way. Diane von Furstenberg: Woman in Charge is a tribute to unshakable resilience and the determination to keep pushing forward. The documentary is available for streaming on Hulu.
‘Lover of Men: The Untold History of Abraham Lincoln’
This documentary is definitely generating conversation – offering an academic exploration of Abraham Lincoln’s close relationships with men, set against the backdrop of the 19th century when societal views on sexuality were different, and perhaps less subject to scrutiny due to the absence of modern technology. Lover of Men: The Untold History of Abraham Lincoln is available for streaming on Amazon Prime, AppleTV+, and Vimeo.
‘Jim Henson Idea Man’
The brilliant creative force behind the Muppets, Labyrinth, The Dark Crystal, and countless other iconic works, Jim Henson is the subject of this immersive, Emmy-winning documentary directed by Ron Howard. The film features interviews with Henson’s fans and reveals some of his never-before-seen creations. Jim Henson: Idea Man is now streaming on Disney+.
‘Black Barbie’
Though Barbie fever may feel like a thing of the past in 2023, this summer’s Black Barbie – produced by Shondaland – explores the cultural impact of Black Barbie and how the iconic Mattel doll, introduced in 1959, evolved to reflect the changing times. Black Barbie is now streaming on Netflix.
‘Will & Harper’
With trans issues and rights at the forefront of national discussions, Will & Harper offers a thoughtful exploration of the friendship between Will Ferrell and his former Saturday Night Live colleague Harper Steele, who recently transitioned. The documentary provides an open and candid look into the life of a trans woman in today’s society, offering intimate insight into her experiences. Will & Harper is now streaming on Netflix.
‘Veselka: The Rainbow on the Corner at the Center of the World’
A moving documentary that traces the history of Veselka, a beloved institution in New York City’s East Village, known for its pierogis and goulash in the heart of “Little Ukraine.” The restaurant took on even greater significance following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Veselka: The Rainbow on the Corner at the Center of the World is now streaming on Apple TV+.
‘Luther: Never Too Much’
This comprehensive documentary on the late Luther Vandross celebrates his legacy as a beloved singer and talent, featuring glowing interviews with stars like Mariah Carey and Jamie Foxx. It also addresses the media scrutiny he endured throughout his life. Luther: Never Too Much is currently showing in select cities and will premiere on CNN on January 1.
‘K-Pop Idols’
The fascination with K-pop and the global craze it generates continues to grow as more acts make their mark on the world stage. As this docuseries shows, the phenomenon shows no signs of slowing down. K-Pop Idols is now streaming on Apple TV+.
‘Blink’
An emotionally powerful documentary, Blink follows one family’s journey as they embark on a world tour to experience as many sights as possible before three of their children lose their eyesight due to a rare genetic disorder. The film will premiere on the National Geographic Channel on December 16 and will be available for streaming on Disney+ and Hulu the following day.
‘Steve! (Martin) A Documentary in 2 Pieces’
An unconventional documentary for an unconventional talent, this Emmy-nominated two-part feature is divided into “Then” and “Now” segments, exploring the life of a brilliant comic, actor, writer, and producer who, as Saturday Night Live creator Lorne Michaels puts it, “never thought success was a permanent state.”
