- The Future of Manufacturing (2018)
- Industry 4.0: The Smart Factory Revolution (2019)
- The Age of Automation (2020)
- Made Smarter: The Rise of Intelligent Manufacturing (2021)
- The Smart Factory: A New Industrial Revolution (2017)
- Manufacturing the Future (2016)
- Smart Factories: The Next Frontier (2015)
- The Connected Factory (2014)
- Automation Nation (2013)
- The Smart Manufacturing Revolution (2012)
In an era where technology is reshaping industries, understanding the nuances of smart manufacturing is more crucial than ever. This curated list of documentaries delves into the world of intelligent production, showcasing how automation, AI, and innovative thinking are revolutionizing the way products are made. From factories that run with minimal human intervention to the integration of IoT in production lines, these films offer a glimpse into the future of manufacturing. Whether you're an industry professional, a tech enthusiast, or simply curious about the future of work, these documentaries provide valuable insights into the transformative power of smart manufacturing.

The Future of Manufacturing (2018)
Description: This documentary explores how smart factories are redefining production with a focus on automation, IoT, and AI. It showcases real-world examples from around the globe, illustrating how these technologies are not just the future but the present of manufacturing.
Fact: The film was shot in 12 different countries to provide a comprehensive view of global manufacturing trends.


Industry 4.0: The Smart Factory Revolution (2019)
Description: A deep dive into the fourth industrial revolution, this documentary examines how smart factories are changing the landscape of manufacturing, focusing on the integration of cyber-physical systems, IoT, and cloud computing.
Fact: The film features interviews with leading experts from Siemens, Bosch, and other major players in the industry.


The Age of Automation (2020)
Description: This film looks at how automation is transforming various industries, with a special emphasis on manufacturing. It discusses the implications for jobs, economy, and society, offering a balanced view of the automation debate.
Fact: The documentary was nominated for a Peabody Award for its insightful exploration of automation's impact.


Made Smarter: The Rise of Intelligent Manufacturing (2021)
Description: Focused on the UK, this documentary showcases how small and medium-sized enterprises are adopting smart manufacturing technologies to stay competitive. It highlights government initiatives and the real-world benefits of these technologies.
Fact: The film was commissioned by the UK government to promote the Made Smarter initiative.


The Smart Factory: A New Industrial Revolution (2017)
Description: This documentary provides an in-depth look at how smart factories are being built, exploring the technologies that enable them, from robotics to data analytics, and their impact on productivity and efficiency.
Fact: It was filmed in collaboration with the World Economic Forum to highlight the global shift towards smart manufacturing.


Manufacturing the Future (2016)
Description: A journey through the evolution of manufacturing, this film focuses on how companies are leveraging smart technologies to create more flexible, efficient, and sustainable production processes.
Fact: The documentary includes a segment on how 3D printing is revolutionizing prototyping and small-batch production.


Smart Factories: The Next Frontier (2015)
Description: This film explores the concept of smart factories, where machines communicate with each other to optimize production. It discusses the challenges and opportunities presented by this new manufacturing paradigm.
Fact: The documentary was screened at the Hannover Messe, one of the world's largest industrial technology trade fairs.


The Connected Factory (2014)
Description: Focusing on the Internet of Things (IoT) in manufacturing, this documentary illustrates how interconnected devices and systems are creating smarter, more responsive factories.
Fact: It features a case study of a German automotive plant that has fully integrated IoT into its production line.


Automation Nation (2013)
Description: This documentary takes a critical look at the rise of automation in manufacturing, exploring both the economic benefits and the social costs, including job displacement and the need for retraining.
Fact: The film was produced in collaboration with the National Science Foundation to educate the public on automation's implications.


The Smart Manufacturing Revolution (2012)
Description: An early exploration of smart manufacturing, this documentary covers the initial adoption of smart technologies in factories, focusing on how these innovations are driving efficiency and customization.
Fact: It includes interviews with pioneers in the field who predicted many of the trends we see today in smart manufacturing.
