Dive into the fascinating world of psychology with our curated list of documentaries. These films offer a unique glimpse into the lives and work of psychologists, exploring their theories, experiments, and the impact they've had on understanding the human mind. Whether you're a psychology enthusiast or simply curious about human behavior, this collection will provide both educational and entertaining insights.

The Science of Sleep (2006)
Description: Although more of a narrative film, it delves into the psychology of dreams and sleep, featuring insights from psychologists and sleep experts.
Fact: Directed by Michel Gondry, the film blends surrealism with psychological exploration, making it a unique entry in this list.


Freud's Last Session (2023)
Description: While not strictly a documentary, this film dramatizes a hypothetical meeting between Sigmund Freud and C.S. Lewis, exploring their views on psychology, religion, and the human condition.
Fact: The film is based on the play by Mark St. Germain and features Anthony Hopkins as Freud.


The Brain with David Eagleman (2015)
Description: Neuroscientist David Eagleman explores how our brains shape our lives, including segments on psychological phenomena like memory, decision-making, and perception.
Fact: Eagleman is known for his ability to make complex neuroscience accessible to the general public.


The Mind of a Murderer (2015)
Description: This documentary follows forensic psychologist Dr. David Holmes as he delves into the minds of killers, exploring the psychological underpinnings of their actions.
Fact: Dr. Holmes has worked on some of the UK's most notorious criminal cases, providing unique insights into criminal psychology.


The Century of the Self (2002)
Description: Adam Curtis's documentary explores how Freud's theories on the unconscious were used by corporations and governments to control the masses. It's a deep dive into the manipulation of human desires and the birth of consumerism.
Fact: The film was originally broadcast on BBC Four and has since become a cult classic among those interested in psychology and sociology.


The Human Face (2001)
Description: This documentary series, presented by John Cleese, delves into the psychology behind facial expressions and what they reveal about our emotions and personality. It's a perfect blend of humor and science, making complex psychological concepts accessible.
Fact: The series was produced by the BBC and features interviews with notable psychologists and experts in the field.


The Brain: A Secret History (2010)
Description: This three-part series examines the history of brain science, focusing on key figures like Freud, Skinner, and others, and how their work has shaped our understanding of the mind.
Fact: The series was presented by Dr. Michael Mosley and includes reenactments of famous psychological experiments.


The Psychopath Next Door (2005)
Description: This documentary investigates the nature of psychopathy, featuring interviews with psychologists, researchers, and even psychopaths themselves to understand this complex personality disorder.
Fact: The film is based on the book by Martha Stout, which became a bestseller, shedding light on the prevalence of psychopaths in society.


The Psychology of Evil (2007)
Description: Philip Zimbardo, known for the Stanford Prison Experiment, explores how ordinary people can commit evil acts under certain conditions, providing a psychological perspective on human behavior.
Fact: Zimbardo's work has been both praised and criticized, making this documentary a thought-provoking exploration of moral psychology.


The Secret Life of the Brain (2002)
Description: This PBS series covers the development of the human brain from infancy to old age, with a focus on psychological milestones and disorders.
Fact: The series won several awards, including a Peabody Award for its educational value and engaging presentation.
