If you were captivated by 'Ruth Weiss: the Beat Goddess' (2019), a documentary celebrating the life and legacy of the pioneering Beat poet, you'll love these 10 similar films and shows. This article explores works that share themes of artistic rebellion, counterculture movements, and groundbreaking female voices, offering a curated list for fans of Weiss's fearless creativity and historical impact.

Gimme Shelter (1970)
Description: A gritty, immersive documentary that delves into the darker side of music culture, highlighting the chaotic and sometimes tragic intersection of fame, performance, and societal unrest.
Fact: The film chronicles the Rolling Stones' 1969 US tour, culminating in the infamous Altamont Free Concert where a fan was murdered.


The Last Waltz (1978)
Description: A documentary that captures the essence of a legendary music performance, blending live concert footage with intimate interviews, showcasing the raw energy and cultural impact of the artists involved.
Fact: The film was directed by Martin Scorsese and features the final concert of The Band, with guest appearances by Bob Dylan, Neil Young, and Joni Mitchell.


The Decline of Western Civilization (1981)
Description: A raw and unfiltered look at a vibrant underground music scene, capturing the rebellious spirit and DIY ethos of the artists and their community.
Fact: The documentary focuses on the Los Angeles punk rock scene in the late 1970s and early 1980s, featuring bands like Black Flag and Circle Jerks.


The Doors (1991)
Description: A biographical film that captures the tumultuous life and career of a legendary band, blending dramatic storytelling with the psychedelic and rebellious spirit of their music.
Fact: The movie stars Val Kilmer as Jim Morrison and features a soundtrack composed largely of the Doors' original recordings.


Control (2007)
Description: A black-and-white biographical film that portrays the intense and tragic life of a pioneering musician, focusing on his artistic vision and personal demons.
Fact: The film is based on the life of Ian Curtis, the lead singer of Joy Division, and is named after one of their most famous songs.


Linda Ronstadt: The Sound of My Voice (2019)
Description: A heartfelt documentary that traces the career of a trailblazing artist, blending personal anecdotes with performances that highlight her versatility and influence across genres.
Fact: The film includes interviews with Linda Ronstadt and collaborators, as well as rare footage of her performances spanning multiple decades.


The Wrecking Crew (2008)
Description: A documentary that shines a light on the unsung heroes behind some of the most iconic music of an era, celebrating their contributions and the collaborative nature of artistic creation.
Fact: The film reveals the story of the group of session musicians who played on countless hit records in the 1960s and 1970s, though they were rarely credited.


Searching for Sugar Man (2012)
Description: A compelling documentary that explores the mysterious life and unexpected legacy of a forgotten musician, blending detective story elements with a celebration of artistic resilience.
Fact: The film tells the story of Rodriguez, a Detroit musician who was unknown in the US but became a legend in South Africa without his knowledge.


Amy (2015)
Description: An intimate and poignant portrait of a talented artist whose life was marked by both extraordinary success and personal struggles, offering a deep dive into the pressures of fame.
Fact: The documentary uses extensive archival footage to tell the story of Amy Winehouse, focusing on her music and the media scrutiny she faced.


What Happened, Miss Simone? (2015)
Description: A powerful documentary that examines the life of a groundbreaking artist, blending her musical genius with her activism and personal challenges, creating a rich tapestry of her legacy.
Fact: The film features never-before-heard recordings and rare archival footage of Nina Simone, highlighting her role in the civil rights movement.
