Protests have always been a powerful tool for change, giving voice to the voiceless and challenging the status quo. This curated list of documentaries delves into various protest movements around the globe, capturing the spirit, struggles, and triumphs of those who dared to stand up. From civil rights to environmental activism, these films not only inform but also inspire, offering a window into the heart of human resilience and the quest for justice.

The People vs. Larry Flynt (1996)
Description: While not strictly a documentary, this film dramatizes the life of Larry Flynt, focusing on his legal battles over free speech, which sparked protests and debates on censorship.
Fact: The film was directed by Milos Forman and stars Woody Harrelson as Larry Flynt.


The Cove (2009)
Description: Focused on the annual dolphin hunt in Taiji, Japan, this documentary sparked international protests against the practice and raised awareness about marine conservation.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature and features covert operations to capture the dolphin slaughter.


The Invisible War (2012)
Description: This documentary exposes the epidemic of rape in the U.S. military, leading to protests and calls for reform within the armed forces.
Fact: The film was instrumental in pushing for legislative changes regarding sexual assault in the military.


The Act of Killing (2012)
Description: This film confronts the Indonesian genocide of 1965-66, where perpetrators reenact their killings, sparking protests and discussions on historical accountability.
Fact: The film was directed by Joshua Oppenheimer and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.


The Square (2013)
Description: This film captures the Egyptian revolution of 2011, focusing on the Tahrir Square protests that led to the overthrow of President Mubarak. It's a raw, intimate look at the power of collective action.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature and was shot by activists and filmmakers on the ground during the protests.


Blackfish (2013)
Description: This documentary investigates the treatment of orcas in captivity, particularly at SeaWorld, leading to widespread protests and changes in public perception.
Fact: The film influenced SeaWorld to end its orca breeding program.


Citizenfour (2014)
Description: This documentary follows Edward Snowden as he exposes global surveillance programs, leading to widespread protests and discussions on privacy rights.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature and was directed by Laura Poitras.


The Yes Men Fix the World (2009)
Description: This film showcases the satirical activism of The Yes Men, who use humor and impersonation to protest against corporate greed and environmental destruction.
Fact: The Yes Men have been known to pull off elaborate hoaxes to make their point, including a fake press conference at the World Trade Organization.


Winter on Fire: Ukraine's Fight for Freedom (2015)
Description: This documentary chronicles the 2013-2014 Euromaidan protests in Ukraine, showing the bravery and determination of the Ukrainian people in their fight against corruption and for democracy.
Fact: The film was produced by Netflix and features interviews with key figures from the protests.


13th (2016)
Description: Ava DuVernay's documentary explores the intersection of race, justice, and mass incarceration in the United States, highlighting the systemic racism that has fueled protests for decades.
Fact: The title refers to the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which abolished slavery but left a loophole that has been exploited.
