Cultural Journeys: 10 Documentaries on the World’s Peoples

Description: While focusing on the dolphin hunting in Taiji, Japan, this film also delves into the cultural practices and the clash between tradition and conservation, highlighting the global implications.

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

Description: While not directly about a specific culture, this film delves into the cultural and psychological aftermath of the Indonesian mass killings, exploring how society deals with its past.

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

Description: This film documents the life and work of photographer Sebastião Salgado, focusing on his travels to remote areas to capture the lives of indigenous peoples and the impact of industrialization.

Fact: The film was co-directed by Wim Wenders and Salgado's son, Juliano Ribeiro Salgado. It won the Special Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival.

Description: This documentary follows a young American on his quest to find healing through shamanic practices in the Amazon, exploring the clash and integration of Western and indigenous cultures.

Fact: The film took over seven years to complete, with the director, Raz Degan, also acting as the cinematographer.

Description: This documentary follows a nomadic family in Mongolia and their efforts to save a camel that refuses to nurse its newborn, showcasing the deep bond between humans and animals in their culture.

Fact: The film was shot over six months, capturing the real-life events of the family. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.

Description: Werner Herzog's documentary about an engineer's quest to fly over the rainforest canopy in Guyana, showcasing the interaction between technology and indigenous life.

Fact: Herzog himself narrates the film, adding his unique perspective on human exploration and the environment.

Description: A visual journey through 25 countries, Samsara captures the diverse rituals, work, and expressions of humanity, presenting a non-narrative exploration of the world's cultures.

Fact: The film was shot over five years with no spoken dialogue, relying solely on visuals and music to convey its message. It was filmed in 70mm, a format known for its high resolution.

Description: Follows two linguists as they travel the world to document dying languages, offering insights into the cultures they represent and the importance of linguistic diversity.

Fact: The film was shot in Bolivia, India, and Siberia. It was nominated for an Emmy Award for Outstanding Science and Technology Programming.

Description: This series explores how humans adapt to extreme environments, from the Arctic to the Amazon, showcasing the ingenuity and resilience of various cultures in their quest for survival.

Fact: The series was filmed over four years, involving 140 expeditions to 80 locations worldwide. It was nominated for a BAFTA award for Best Factual Series.

Description: This film follows a former Japanese soldier's quest to uncover the truth about WWII atrocities, revealing the cultural and personal impacts of war on Japanese society.

Fact: The film was directed by Kazuo Hara, known for his provocative documentaries. It won the FIPRESCI Prize at the Berlin International Film Festival.