- American Movie (1999)
- The Kid Stays in the Picture (2002)
- Overnight (2003)
- Z Channel: A Magnificent Obsession (2004)
- The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters (2007)
- Best Worst Movie (2009)
- Jodorowsky's Dune (2013)
- Doomed! The Untold Story of Roger Corman's The Fantastic Four (2015)
- The Disaster Artist (2017)
- Lost Soul: The Doomed Journey of Richard Stanley's Island of Dr. Moreau (2014)
If you were captivated by the behind-the-scenes chaos and creative struggles of Lost in La Mancha (2002), this article is for you. We’ve curated a list of 10 movies and shows that share its themes of filmmaking gone awry, artistic ambition, and documentary-style storytelling. Whether you're a cinephile or just love a good tale of creative turmoil, these picks will keep you hooked.

American Movie (1999)
Description: A documentary that captures the struggles and triumphs of an independent filmmaker determined to complete his project against all odds.
Fact: The film won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival, bringing widespread attention to its subject's unique story.


The Kid Stays in the Picture (2002)
Description: A biographical documentary that delves into the highs and lows of a Hollywood career, showcasing the resilience required to navigate the industry.
Fact: The film is narrated by its subject, Robert Evans, whose distinctive voice adds a personal and dramatic touch to the storytelling.


Overnight (2003)
Description: A raw and unfiltered look at the rise and fall of a filmmaker whose initial success is overshadowed by personal and professional missteps.
Fact: The documentary was initially intended to be a making-of feature for The Boondock Saints but evolved into a cautionary tale about hubris.


Z Channel: A Magnificent Obsession (2004)
Description: Explores the impact of a pioneering television channel that championed overlooked and unconventional films, much like the passion projects featured in other documentaries.
Fact: Z Channel was one of the first pay-TV stations to broadcast uncut and commercial-free films, influencing a generation of filmmakers and cinephiles.


The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters (2007)
Description: Focuses on the intense rivalry and dedication of individuals striving for recognition in a niche subculture, mirroring the passion seen in filmmaking.
Fact: The film's subject, Steve Wiebe, achieved his high score on Donkey Kong in his garage, often playing late into the night.


Best Worst Movie (2009)
Description: Examines the unexpected cult following of a film initially dismissed as a failure, celebrating the enduring appeal of flawed but heartfelt cinema.
Fact: The documentary was directed by one of the stars of Troll 2, who reconnects with the cast to explore the film's bizarre legacy.


Jodorowsky's Dune (2013)
Description: Explores the ambitious yet ultimately unrealized vision of a filmmaker, delving into the creative process and the challenges of bringing a grand cinematic dream to life.
Fact: The documentary features storyboard art that was so influential it inspired elements in later sci-fi films like Alien and Star Wars.


Doomed! The Untold Story of Roger Corman's The Fantastic Four (2015)
Description: Uncovers the story of a shelved film, revealing the complexities and compromises involved in independent filmmaking and studio politics.
Fact: The film was produced solely to retain the rights to the Fantastic Four characters, with no intention of ever releasing it theatrically.


The Disaster Artist (2017)
Description: Chronicles the chaotic and often absurd production of a cult film, highlighting the passion and perseverance of its creators despite numerous setbacks.
Fact: The film recreates scenes from The Room shot-for-shot, earning praise for its accuracy and attention to detail.


Lost Soul: The Doomed Journey of Richard Stanley's Island of Dr. Moreau (2014)
Description: Details the tumultuous production of a film plagued by creative differences, budget issues, and on-set chaos, offering a behind-the-scenes look at cinematic disaster.
Fact: The original director, Richard Stanley, was fired early in production but secretly returned to the set disguised as an extra.
