Description: Although not strictly a documentary, this film is based on the true story of Chris Gardner, offering a raw look at the psychological resilience required to overcome adversity and achieve success.

Fact: Will Smith was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Chris Gardner.

Description: This documentary captures the intense rivalry in the world of competitive arcade gaming, exploring themes of obsession, perseverance, and the psychology of competition.

Fact: The film has become a cult classic among gamers and those interested in the competitive spirit.

Description: This film chronicles the rise of Pixar Animation Studios, offering insights into the creative process, teamwork, and the psychological aspects of innovation and success in animation.

Fact: The documentary includes interviews with key figures like Steve Jobs and John Lasseter.

Description: While focusing on dolphin hunting, this documentary also delves into the psychology of activism, determination, and the success of a small group against a large, established system.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.

Description: This documentary follows Jiro Ono, an 85-year-old sushi master, showcasing how dedication, perfectionism, and the pursuit of excellence can lead to unparalleled success in one's field.

Fact: Jiro's restaurant, Sukiyabashi Jiro, has three Michelin stars, making it one of the most prestigious sushi restaurants in the world.

Description: This documentary follows the search for Sixto Rodriguez, an unknown musician who became a success in South Africa, exploring themes of fame, obscurity, and the psychological impact of success.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.

Description: Philippe Petit's audacious act of tightrope walking between the Twin Towers is a testament to the power of determination and the psychological drive to achieve the seemingly impossible.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.

Description: This film explores the concept of the 'Law of Attraction', suggesting that positive thinking can lead to success and wealth. It's a must-watch for understanding how belief systems can shape our reality.

Fact: The film was inspired by a book by Rhonda Byrne and has sparked numerous debates on the effectiveness of the Law of Attraction.

Description: This documentary examines the diet industry, the psychology behind weight loss, and how societal pressures and personal success are intertwined with body image.

Fact: It features interviews with experts in nutrition, psychology, and the diet industry.

Description: Investigating what makes people happy, this documentary touches on success by exploring how different cultures and individuals define and achieve happiness, which is often linked to personal success.

Fact: The film includes interviews with scientists, philosophers, and everyday people from around the world.

Description: This film recreates the infamous 1971 experiment where college students played the roles of prisoners and guards, demonstrating how quickly power dynamics can corrupt and dehumanize. It's a stark reminder of the psychological impact of authority and obedience.

Fact: The film was shot in the same building where the original experiment took place. The actors underwent psychological screenings to ensure they could handle the intensity of their roles.

Description: This film tells the story of Frédéric Bourdin, a French con artist who impersonated a missing American boy. It explores themes of identity, deception, and the psychological need to believe in a happy ending.

Fact: The film uses reenactments and interviews to blur the lines between reality and fabrication, mirroring the theme of the story.

Description: This documentary explores the hidden meanings and conspiracy theories behind Stanley Kubrick's "The Shining." It delves into psychological interpretations of the film, revealing how viewers' perceptions can be shaped by their own psychological frameworks.

Fact: The film features no interviews with Kubrick or his collaborators, instead relying solely on the interpretations of various film theorists.

Description: This documentary examines the psychological aftermath of the Indonesian mass killings in the 1960s, where the perpetrators are asked to recreate their crimes in the form of movie scenes. It's a chilling look at how memory, guilt, and denial intertwine.

Fact: The film won the BAFTA for Best Documentary and was nominated for an Academy Award.

Description: This documentary follows the Angulo brothers, who were locked away in their New York apartment by their father, exploring how they coped with isolation through movies, and the psychological effects of their upbringing.

Fact: The film won the U.S. Documentary Grand Jury Prize at Sundance Film Festival.

Description: Neuroscientist David Eagleman explores how our brains shape our reality, covering topics like decision making, emotions, and the plasticity of the brain, making it a comprehensive study of psychological phenomena.

Fact: Eagleman uses a mix of animation, real-life stories, and scientific experiments to illustrate his points.

Description: Adam Curtis's documentary series investigates how politicians have used our fears to gain power, focusing on the rise of Islamic fundamentalism and neoconservatism, and how these ideologies manipulate psychological fears.

Fact: The series has been both praised for its analysis and criticized for its controversial views on terrorism.

Description: This documentary delves into the life of the Friedman family, where a father and son were accused of child molestation. It examines the psychological toll of public scrutiny, family dynamics, and the reliability of memory.

Fact: The film won the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance Film Festival and was nominated for an Academy Award.

Description: This four-part series by Adam Curtis explores how Freud's theories on the unconscious influenced the development of public relations and consumerism, shaping modern society's psychological landscape.

Fact: The series was broadcast on BBC Four and has been praised for its insightful analysis of the manipulation of public opinion.

Description: This Netflix series provides an accessible look into various psychological phenomena, from memory to dreams, offering a broad understanding of how our minds work and why we behave the way we do.

Fact: Each episode is narrated by Emma Stone, adding a familiar voice to the exploration of complex topics.

Description: While not exclusively about relationships, this documentary touches on how modern life affects our psychological well-being, which in turn influences our relationships.

Fact: The film features insights from experts like Dr. Gabor Maté, known for his work on addiction and childhood development.

Description: Focused on masculinity, this documentary explores how societal expectations shape men's emotional expression and, consequently, their relationships.

Fact: The film has sparked discussions on gender norms and emotional literacy in educational settings.

Description: This documentary explores the biological, psychological, and social aspects of love, providing a scientific look at why we fall in love and how relationships evolve. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in the science behind human bonding.

Fact: The film was produced in collaboration with leading psychologists and neuroscientists, offering a credible scientific perspective on love.

Description: A documentary that challenges the conventional notions of love through interviews with couples, psychologists, and relationship experts, examining the reality versus the romanticized version of love.

Fact: The film includes interviews with couples from various cultural backgrounds, providing a global perspective on love.

Description: This documentary follows women from different walks of life as they navigate love, self-worth, and the quest for meaningful relationships.

Fact: It was produced by a team of women filmmakers, highlighting female perspectives on love and relationships.

Description: An exploration of marriage through the lens of couples therapy, this documentary provides a raw look at the challenges and rewards of long-term commitment.

Fact: The film was inspired by the book "The Truth About Marriage" by Dr. Phil McGraw.

Description: This documentary investigates the transformative power of love, looking at how it can heal, change, and even save lives.

Fact: It includes stories from survivors of various traumas who found solace and strength through love.

Description: A unique blend of science and psychology, this film attempts to quantify love through mathematical models, offering a fresh perspective on relationship dynamics.

Fact: The documentary features interviews with mathematicians and psychologists who study love.

Description: This film delves into the emotional and psychological aspects of relationships, focusing on how individuals cope with love, loss, and the search for connection.

Fact: It was nominated for several awards for its honest portrayal of human emotions.

Description: A documentary that follows a group of friends as they approach their 30th birthdays, exploring their evolving views on love, sex, and relationships.

Fact: The film captures the real-life changes and challenges faced by the group over several years.

Description: While not directly about psychological help, this film documents the stories of people who jumped from the Golden Gate Bridge, offering insights into mental health crises and the need for intervention.

Fact: The film was controversial for its method of filming, capturing actual suicides, which led to discussions on ethics in documentary filmmaking.

Description: Although primarily about the interpretations of Stanley Kubrick's "The Shining," it delves into psychological theories and the impact of media on the human psyche, indirectly touching on psychological help.

Fact: The film does not feature any interviews with Kubrick or his collaborators, relying solely on the interpretations of fans and critics.

Description: This documentary focuses on the epidemic of sexual assault in the U.S. military, highlighting the psychological trauma and the need for psychological support for survivors.

Fact: The film led to significant policy changes within the military regarding the handling of sexual assault cases.

Description: It examines the unique psychological bond between twins, exploring how this relationship can influence mental health and the need for specialized psychological support.

Fact: The documentary includes stories of twins separated at birth and reunited later in life, offering a unique perspective on identity and psychology.

Description: This Netflix series dives into various aspects of the human mind, including memory, dreams, and mental disorders, offering insights into how psychological help can address these issues.

Fact: The series was created by the same team behind the popular "Explained" series, ensuring a blend of entertainment and education.

Description: While primarily about obesity, this series touches on the psychological aspects of weight gain and loss, emphasizing the role of psychological help in managing health.

Fact: The series was a collaboration between HBO and the Institute of Medicine, aiming to address the obesity epidemic in America.

Description: It explores the societal pressures on boys and men to conform to traditional masculinity, leading to mental health issues and the necessity for psychological intervention.

Fact: The film was produced by the same team behind "Miss Representation," focusing on gender stereotypes.

Description: This documentary investigates the nature of psychopathy, offering insights into how psychological help can manage or mitigate its effects on society.

Fact: The film features interviews with diagnosed psychopaths, providing a rare glimpse into their minds.

Description: Dr. Gabor Maté explores the impact of trauma on individuals and society, emphasizing the importance of compassionate care and psychological support in healing.

Fact: The film features interviews with people from various walks of life, showcasing the universal nature of trauma.

Description: This documentary examines the rise of anxiety disorders in modern society and the various forms of psychological help available to manage and overcome them.

Fact: The film includes interviews with leading psychologists and features real-life stories of individuals dealing with anxiety.

Description: This documentary provides an in-depth look at the life of musician Daniel Johnston, who struggled with mental illness, offering a unique perspective on creativity and mental health.

Fact: The film won the Documentary Feature award at the 2005 Sundance Film Festival.

Description: This film documents the lives of those who have jumped off the Golden Gate Bridge, exploring themes of depression, suicide, and the psychological aftermath for survivors and families.

Fact: It was filmed over a year, capturing the bridge's daily life and the tragic events that unfolded.

Description: Although not strictly about mental health, this documentary explores the psychological interpretations of Stanley Kubrick's "The Shining," showcasing how film can reflect and influence mental states.

Fact: The film does not include any interviews with Kubrick or the cast, relying entirely on fan theories.

Description: While primarily about sexual assault in the military, it also addresses the psychological trauma and mental health issues faced by survivors, making it relevant to this collection.

Fact: The film led to significant policy changes in the U.S. military regarding sexual assault.

Description: While primarily about snowboarder Kevin Pearce's recovery from a traumatic brain injury, the film also delves into the psychological impact of such injuries, including depression and anxiety.

Fact: It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, highlighting its impact and storytelling.

Description: A poignant look at bipolar disorder, this film follows the lives of several individuals, offering an intimate portrayal of living with this condition, its challenges, and the search for stability.

Fact: The film was screened at numerous film festivals, including the Tribeca Film Festival, where it received critical acclaim for its honest depiction of mental illness.

Description: This Netflix series dives into various aspects of the mind, including episodes on mental disorders like anxiety and depression, providing a comprehensive look at how our brains work and how mental health issues manifest.

Fact: The series was produced by Vox Media, known for their explainer videos, ensuring both educational depth and engaging storytelling.

Description: Focused on the societal pressures on boys to conform to traditional masculinity, this documentary touches on the mental health implications of these expectations.

Fact: The film was produced by The Representation Project, known for their work on gender issues.

Description: This documentary explores the global rise of anxiety, looking at its causes, effects, and potential solutions through interviews with experts and individuals living with anxiety.

Fact: It was directed by Mark Johnston, who also directed "The Secret Life of Chaos," showcasing his interest in complex human conditions.

Description: This documentary examines the lives of three women from different generations, all affected by suicide, offering a raw look at the ripple effects of mental health issues.

Fact: It was directed by Alice Birch, who also wrote the play of the same name, providing a unique narrative perspective.

Description: This documentary follows two African-American teenagers as they navigate the challenges of high school basketball, showcasing their character, dreams, and the harsh realities of their environment.

Fact: The film took over five years to make and was critically acclaimed for its raw portrayal of urban life and the American Dream.

Description: Featuring Robert S. McNamara, this film delves into the character of a man who was at the heart of some of the most pivotal moments in American history, offering insights into the complexities of leadership and decision-making.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, and McNamara's reflections on the Vietnam War are both candid and controversial.

Description: This gripping tale of survival in the Peruvian Andes explores the character of two climbers pushed to their limits, revealing the true essence of human spirit and resilience.

Fact: The film uses dramatic reenactments to bring the harrowing story to life, and it was adapted into a stage play.

Description: This documentary captures the intense rivalry between two men vying for the world record in the arcade game Donkey Kong, showcasing their determination and the lengths they go to prove their character.

Fact: The film was shot over three years, and the rivalry between the two gamers was so intense that it led to real-life drama and legal disputes.

Description: This documentary follows activists risking their lives to expose the brutal dolphin hunt in Taiji, Japan, showcasing their courage and moral conviction.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, and its release led to significant international pressure to stop the dolphin slaughter.

Description: This documentary explores the character of Lance Armstrong, from his rise as a cycling legend to his fall after admitting to doping, offering a complex portrait of ambition, deceit, and redemption.

Fact: Director Alex Gibney had initially set out to make a film celebrating Armstrong's comeback, but the project evolved into an examination of his lies and the culture that enabled them.

Description: This documentary sheds light on the character of military personnel who have endured sexual assault, highlighting their courage to speak out and fight for justice.

Fact: The film led to significant policy changes within the U.S. military regarding sexual assault, and it won the Audience Award at Sundance.

Description: This film confronts the character of former Indonesian death squad leaders as they reenact their mass killings, offering a chilling insight into the human capacity for violence and denial.

Fact: The film was banned in Indonesia but won numerous international awards, including the BAFTA for Best Documentary.

Description: This film explores the character of a pastor who opens his church to homeless workers during an oil boom, revealing the complexities of compassion, community, and personal sacrifice.

Fact: The documentary was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance Film Festival and sparked discussions on immigration and economic disparity.

Description: Philippe Petit's audacious act of tightrope walking between the Twin Towers in 1974 is not just a feat of physical prowess but a testament to his unwavering character and passion for art.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, and Petit's story inspired the feature film "The Walk."

Description: This film tells the story of a French con artist who impersonates a missing American boy, exploring the psychological effects on the family and the imposter himself.

Fact: The film uses reenactments and interviews to craft a narrative that blurs the line between truth and deception, offering a unique look at identity and trauma.

Description: This documentary sheds light on the epidemic of rape within the U.S. military, exploring the psychological trauma endured by survivors and the systemic issues that perpetuate this cycle of abuse.

Fact: The film was instrumental in pushing for legislative changes regarding military sexual assault, and it won an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.

Description: This documentary confronts the psychological aftermath of the Indonesian mass killings in the 1960s, as former death squad leaders reenact their crimes, revealing the deep-seated trauma and denial.

Fact: It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature and has been praised for its innovative approach to exploring historical trauma.

Description: While primarily about the Egyptian revolution, this documentary also captures the psychological trauma of living under oppressive regimes and the resilience of those fighting for change.

Fact: It won the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.

Description: Focusing on sexual assault on college campuses, this documentary delves into the trauma experienced by survivors and the institutional failures that often exacerbate their pain.

Fact: The film features Lady Gaga's song "Till It Happens to You," which was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song.

Description: This series investigates the life of John Demjanjuk, accused of being a Nazi guard, and the psychological impact on those involved in the trial, showcasing the long-lasting effects of historical trauma.

Fact: The series uses archival footage and interviews to piece together a complex narrative of identity, memory, and justice.

Description: Following a platoon of U.S. soldiers in Afghanistan, this film captures the psychological toll of combat, offering an intimate look at the mental and emotional struggles of soldiers in a war zone.

Fact: Named after a soldier who was killed early in the deployment, the film was co-directed by Sebastian Junger and Tim Hetherington, with the latter tragically dying while covering another conflict.

Description: This film explores the life and death of Pat Tillman, an NFL player turned soldier, and the psychological impact on his family as they uncover the truth behind his death.

Fact: The documentary was praised for its investigative journalism and for shedding light on the military's initial cover-up of Tillman's death.

Description: This film examines the societal pressures on boys to conform to traditional masculinity, exploring how these expectations can lead to psychological trauma and mental health issues.

Fact: It was produced by the same team behind "Miss Representation," focusing on gender stereotypes.

Description: Focusing on the medical device industry, this documentary uncovers the psychological trauma resulting from medical malpractice and the lack of regulation, affecting patients' lives profoundly.

Fact: It was directed by Kirby Dick, who also directed "The Invisible War."

Description: While focusing on the life and work of underground cartoonist Robert Crumb, this documentary delves into his psychological state, exploring themes of mental health, family dynamics, and the impact of childhood trauma.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.

Description: This film delves into the infamous 1971 experiment where college students played the roles of prisoners and guards, revealing the dark side of human nature when given power. It's a chilling exploration of how quickly normal individuals can adopt abusive behaviors.

Fact: The film was shot in the same building where the original experiment took place, and some of the actors were actual psychology students.

Description: This film focuses on the Golden Gate Bridge, known for suicides, and explores the psychological reasons behind such acts, as well as the impact on survivors and witnesses.

Fact: The filmmakers spent a year filming the bridge, capturing several suicides on camera, which sparked ethical debates.

Description: While not strictly about psychological research, this documentary explores the psychological interpretations of Stanley Kubrick's "The Shining," offering insights into how viewers perceive and interpret art through their own psychological lenses.

Fact: The film includes interviews with people who have spent years analyzing "The Shining," some believing it contains hidden messages about the Holocaust or the Apollo moon landing.

Description: Although primarily about the Indonesian mass killings of 1965-66, this film examines the psychological effects on the perpetrators, offering a unique perspective on guilt, denial, and the human capacity for violence.

Fact: It was listed by The Guardian as one of the top 50 documentaries of all time.

Description: This documentary tells the story of six brothers who were kept inside their apartment for most of their lives, exploring the psychological effects of isolation and the power of film as an escape and education.

Fact: The brothers reenacted scenes from movies they watched, which became a significant part of their psychological development.

Description: This documentary series by Adam Curtis investigates the rise of the politics of fear, exploring how leaders manipulate public perception through psychological tactics.

Fact: It has been praised for its in-depth analysis but also criticized for its controversial conclusions.

Description: This four-part series by Adam Curtis examines how Freud's theories on the unconscious were used by corporations and governments to manipulate the masses, shaping consumer culture and political strategies.

Fact: The documentary uses a wealth of archival footage to illustrate its points, making it both informative and visually engaging.

Description: This Netflix series breaks down complex psychological concepts into digestible episodes, covering topics like memory, dreams, and anxiety, making psychology accessible to everyone.

Fact: Each episode is narrated by Emma Stone, adding a familiar voice to the exploration of the human mind.

Description: This documentary series explores the history of brain science, focusing on how psychological research has evolved, from mind control experiments to understanding mental illness.

Fact: It was produced by the BBC and features interviews with leading neuroscientists and psychologists.

Description: While not strictly about psychological theories, this documentary delves into the psychological interpretations of Stanley Kubrick's "The Shining," showcasing how viewers project their own theories onto the film.

Fact: The film includes interviews with people who have developed elaborate theories about hidden meanings in "The Shining," some of which are quite outlandish.

Description: Neuroscientist David Eagleman explores how the brain constructs reality, touching on various psychological theories related to perception, decision-making, and identity.

Fact: Eagleman is known for his work on time perception, which is explored in one of the episodes.

Description: Adam Curtis returns with another thought-provoking series, this time exploring how the fear of terrorism has been used to manipulate public opinion, touching on psychological theories of fear and control.

Fact: The documentary suggests that both Islamic fundamentalists and neoconservatives share a common narrative of a world in chaos.

Description: This four-part series by Adam Curtis explores how Freud's theories on the unconscious were used by those in power to control the masses, highlighting the rise of consumerism and the manipulation of public opinion.

Fact: The series was originally broadcast on BBC Four and has since become a cult classic among psychology enthusiasts.

Description: Curtis investigates how modern ideas of freedom have led to a society where individuals are increasingly isolated, exploring psychological theories of autonomy and social control.

Fact: The series critiques the influence of game theory on political and economic policies.

Description: This Netflix series breaks down complex psychological concepts like memory, dreams, and anxiety in an accessible format, making it perfect for those new to psychology.

Fact: Each episode features a different expert in the field, providing a well-rounded view of psychological phenomena.

Description: John Cleese hosts this documentary that examines how facial expressions and features relate to psychological theories of emotion, attraction, and social interaction.

Fact: The series features interviews with experts like Desmond Morris, who wrote "The Naked Ape."

Description: This PBS series explores the development of the brain from infancy to old age, touching on psychological theories related to cognitive development and aging.

Fact: The series was produced in collaboration with the Dana Foundation, which supports brain research.

Description: Based on the book by Martha Stout, this documentary examines the psychological profile of psychopaths, exploring theories of empathy, morality, and personality disorders.

Fact: The film features interviews with diagnosed psychopaths, providing a chilling insight into their minds.

Description: Michael Mosley presents this series that delves into the history of brain research, touching on psychological theories through the lens of historical experiments and discoveries.

Fact: The series includes segments on controversial experiments like those conducted by Dr. Ewen Cameron on mind control.

Description: While not a documentary in the traditional sense, this animated film by Pixar offers a creative exploration of emotions and how they influence our psychological development.

Fact: The film was developed with the help of psychologists to ensure the portrayal of emotions was accurate.

Description: Neuroscientist David Eagleman explores the brain's role in shaping our identity, behavior, and psychological development through six engaging episodes.

Fact: Eagleman is known for his ability to make complex neuroscience accessible to the public.

Description: While centered on cooking, this series also explores the psychological aspects of creativity, passion, and the development of culinary skills.

Fact: The series was created by Anthony Bourdain, known for his deep understanding of human behavior through food.

Description: This series delves into various aspects of the human mind, from memory to dreams, providing a comprehensive look at how our psychological processes shape our lives.

Fact: Each episode features interviews with leading experts in psychology and neuroscience.

Description: This PBS series examines the development of the brain from infancy to old age, offering insights into how our psychological landscape evolves.

Fact: It was one of the first major series to focus solely on brain development.

Description: Although primarily about facial expressions, this documentary series touches on how our faces reflect our psychological states and development.

Fact: John Cleese, known for his comedic work, hosts this series, bringing humor to the exploration of human psychology.

Description: This documentary investigates the power of the mind in overcoming physical and psychological challenges, highlighting stories of resilience and growth.

Fact: It features interviews with individuals who have harnessed their mental strength to achieve extraordinary feats.

Description: This film explores what makes us happy, delving into psychological research on happiness, well-being, and personal development.

Fact: It includes insights from positive psychology, a field that focuses on what makes life most worth living.

Description: This documentary traces the history of brain research, providing context for how our understanding of psychological development has evolved.

Fact: It includes historical experiments and the ethical debates surrounding them.

Description: This documentary examines the psychological profiles of serial killers, offering a chilling insight into the darker aspects of human development.

Fact: It features interviews with forensic psychologists and criminologists who have studied these cases extensively.