Documentaries That Define Pop Culture

Description: This film delves into the competitive world of arcade gaming, highlighting how video games have become a significant part of pop culture, with rivalries and legends.

Fact: The film was shot over three years, capturing the intense rivalry between Billy Mitchell and Steve Wiebe for the Donkey Kong high score.

Description: While not directly about pop culture, this documentary on sushi chef Jiro Ono shows how culinary excellence can become a cultural phenomenon.

Fact: Jiro's sushi restaurant has three Michelin stars, and the film explores the dedication required to achieve such mastery.

Description: This documentary captures the Beatles' journey from their early days to their last concert, showcasing their impact on pop culture through music, fashion, and social change.

Fact: The film includes previously unseen footage and interviews with Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, and other key figures from the era.

Description: This documentary investigates the fashion industry, revealing its impact on pop culture, labor practices, and the environment.

Fact: It features interviews with activists, factory workers, and fashion insiders, exposing the hidden costs of fast fashion.

Description: An inside look at Vogue magazine's creation of its iconic September issue, revealing the fashion industry's influence on pop culture and trends.

Fact: The film features Anna Wintour, the editor-in-chief of Vogue, giving viewers an unprecedented look into her editorial decisions.

Description: A look at how social media platforms have shaped modern pop culture, this documentary discusses the ethical implications of technology's role in our lives.

Fact: The film features interviews with former employees of tech giants like Google, Twitter, and Facebook, offering insider perspectives on social media's impact.

Description: Directed by the elusive Banksy, this documentary explores the world of street art, its rise to mainstream popularity, and the commercialization of art.

Fact: The film blurs the line between documentary and fiction, with some questioning whether the main character, Thierry Guetta, is real or a creation of Banksy.

Description: This film explores the life of Aaron Swartz, an internet activist whose work on RSS and Reddit significantly influenced digital culture.

Fact: The documentary was made by Brian Knappenberger, who also directed "We Are Legion: The Story of the Hacktivists."

Description: A comprehensive look at the history of hip-hop, this series explores how this genre became a global phenomenon, influencing fashion, language, and youth culture.

Fact: The series features interviews with pioneers like Grandmaster Flash, Ice-T, and Public Enemy, providing firsthand accounts of hip-hop's evolution.

Description: This series examines the toys that have shaped pop culture, from Barbie to He-Man, offering insights into how these playthings influenced generations.

Fact: The series includes interviews with toy designers, collectors, and industry insiders, giving a comprehensive view of toy history.