If you were captivated by the intimate and poetic storytelling of 'The Rest I Make Up' (2018), a documentary about playwright María Irene Fornés, you'll love these 10 similar films and shows. This article explores works that share its themes of creativity, resilience, and artistic passion, offering a curated list for fans of thought-provoking documentaries.

The Fog of War (2003)
Description: A profound documentary that reflects on the complexities of war, power, and moral responsibility, using firsthand accounts and historical analysis. It presents a deeply personal and philosophical perspective on historical events.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. It features Robert McNamara, the former U.S. Secretary of Defense, reflecting on his role in the Vietnam War.


Jiro Dreams of Sushi (2011)
Description: A meditative documentary that explores dedication, craftsmanship, and the pursuit of perfection, focusing on the life of a master sushi chef. It offers a quiet yet profound look at passion and legacy.
Fact: The film was shot over several months in a tiny 10-seat sushi restaurant in Tokyo. It helped popularize sushi culture globally.


Searching for Sugar Man (2012)
Description: A documentary that uncovers the mysterious life of a forgotten musician, blending mystery, music, and human resilience. It highlights the power of art to transcend time and geography.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 201It led to a resurgence in the career of its subject, Rodriguez, who had been largely unknown in his home country.


The Act of Killing (2012)
Description: This documentary delves into memory, guilt, and the human capacity for self-deception, using surreal and theatrical techniques to explore dark historical events. It challenges viewers to reflect on the nature of truth and reconciliation.
Fact: The film was executive produced by Werner Herzog and Errol Morris. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.


Amy (2015)
Description: A poignant documentary that chronicles the life and struggles of a talented artist, blending personal footage with public performances. It explores themes of fame, mental health, and artistic expression.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. It includes never-before-seen archival footage of Amy Winehouse.


The Look of Silence (2014)
Description: A companion piece to 'The Act of Killing,' this documentary examines the lingering trauma of historical violence through intimate and confrontational interviews. It emphasizes the personal cost of political atrocities.
Fact: The film was banned in Indonesia, where its events took place. It was nominated for numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.


Citizenfour (2014)
Description: A tense and immersive documentary that captures a whistleblower's revelations about government surveillance, blending real-time footage with investigative journalism. It raises urgent questions about privacy and power.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. It was shot in secret over several months in a Hong Kong hotel room.


Man on Wire (2008)
Description: A gripping documentary that captures an extraordinary feat of human ambition and artistry, focusing on the emotional and psychological dimensions of its subject. The film blends archival footage with reenactments to create a dreamlike narrative.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in


Faces Places (2017)
Description: This documentary explores the power of human connection and artistic expression, blending personal storytelling with visual creativity. It shares a contemplative and intimate approach to documenting real-life experiences.
Fact: The film was co-directed by Agnes Varda, one of the pioneers of the French New Wave, and JR, a famous street artist. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.


Won't You Be My Neighbor? (2018)
Description: A heartfelt documentary that examines the life and philosophy of a beloved public figure, emphasizing kindness, empathy, and the impact of media on society. It combines archival footage with reflective interviews.
Fact: The film became the highest-grossing biographical documentary ever at the time of its release. It explores Fred Rogers' revolutionary approach to children's television.
