10 Movies and Shows Similar to ‘When the Levees Broke: A Requiem in Four Acts’ (2006)

Description: Like 'When the Levees Broke', this documentary investigates a tragic event (the killing of Fred Hampton) and its broader implications. Both films are critical of systemic racism and highlight the activism of marginalized communities. They share a similar raw, unfiltered storytelling style.

Fact: The film was directed by Howard Alk. It features footage of Hampton's apartment after the police raid. The documentary was initially suppressed but later gained recognition as an important historical document.

Description: Similar to 'When the Levees Broke: A Requiem in Four Acts', 'Eyes on the Prize' is a powerful documentary series that delves into the Civil Rights Movement in the United States. Both works are deeply rooted in historical events and focus on the struggles and resilience of African American communities. They share a similar emotional tone, combining personal narratives with broader social commentary.

Fact: 'Eyes on the Prize' was initially broadcast on PBS and is considered one of the most comprehensive documentaries on the Civil Rights Movement. The series won numerous awards, including Emmy Awards and Peabody Awards. It features rare archival footage and interviews with key figures of the movement.

Description: This documentary, similar to 'When the Levees Broke', uses archival footage to explore a critical period in African American history. Both films highlight the struggles and activism of Black communities and are deeply rooted in historical context. They share a similar visual aesthetic, relying heavily on archival material.

Fact: The film features commentary from contemporary artists and activists like Erykah Badu and Talib Kweli. It was directed by Göran Hugo Olsson. The footage was originally shot by Swedish journalists.

Description: This documentary, like 'When the Levees Broke', examines a significant miscarriage of justice and its impact on the African American community. Both films highlight systemic racism and the failure of institutions to protect marginalized groups. They employ a mix of personal testimonies and archival footage to tell their stories.

Fact: Directed by Ken Burns, Sarah Burns, and David McMahon. The film was later adapted into a Netflix miniseries titled 'When They See Us'. It sparked renewed interest in the case and led to public apologies from some of the involved parties.

Description: This documentary, similar to 'When the Levees Broke', examines the life of a prominent African American figure (Muhammad Ali) and his struggles against systemic oppression. Both films are deeply personal and politically charged, highlighting themes of resilience and activism.

Fact: The film was directed by Bill Siegel. It focuses on Ali's refusal to be drafted into the Vietnam War. The documentary was nominated for an Emmy Award.

Description: Like 'When the Levees Broke', 'Ferguson Rises' focuses on the aftermath of a traumatic event (the killing of Michael Brown) and its impact on a community. Both films emphasize the importance of grassroots activism and the resilience of marginalized communities. They share a similar emotional tone and storytelling approach.

Fact: The film was directed by Mobolaji Olambiwonnu. It features interviews with Michael Brown's father. The documentary was part of the official selection at the Tribeca Film Festival.

Description: This documentary, similar to 'When the Levees Broke', examines systemic issues within American institutions (in this case, the Oakland Police Department). Both films are critical of institutional failures and highlight the need for reform. They share a similar investigative style and emotional depth.

Fact: The film won the Directing Award for U.S. Documentary at the Sundance Film Festival. It was directed by Peter Nicks. The documentary was praised for its unprecedented access to the police department.

Description: Similar to 'When the Levees Broke', 'Whose Streets?' is a documentary that captures the aftermath of a traumatic event (the Ferguson uprising) and its impact on a community. Both films focus on grassroots activism and the resilience of communities in the face of systemic oppression. They share a raw, unfiltered storytelling style.

Fact: The film was directed by Sabaah Folayan and Damon Davis. It premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. The documentary was praised for its immersive, on-the-ground perspective.

Description: Like 'When the Levees Broke', 'LA 92' revisits a pivotal moment in American history (the LA riots) through archival footage and personal accounts. Both films explore themes of racial tension, systemic inequality, and community resilience. They are both deeply emotional and politically charged.

Fact: The film was released on the 25th anniversary of the LA riots. It was produced by National Geographic. 'LA 92' won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Special.

Description: Like 'When the Levees Broke', 'Baltimore Rising' explores the aftermath of a traumatic event (the death of Freddie Gray) and its impact on a community. Both films focus on activism, systemic racism, and community resilience. They share a similar emotional tone and storytelling style.

Fact: The film was directed by Sonja Sohn, who also starred in 'The Wire'. It premiered at the AFI Docs film festival. The documentary features interviews with activists, police officers, and community members.