If you were moved by 'Active Shooter: America Under Fire' (2017), a gripping documentary exploring the impact of mass shootings in the U.S., you might be looking for similar films and shows that delve into this harrowing subject. This article highlights 10 thought-provoking titles that examine gun violence, its consequences, and the societal debates surrounding it. Whether you're seeking more documentaries, dramas, or investigative series, these recommendations will keep you engaged and informed.

Bowling for Columbine (2002)
Description: This documentary explores the causes and consequences of gun violence in America, delving into societal and cultural factors that contribute to mass shootings.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature and sparked widespread debate about gun control in the U.S.


The Fog of War (2003)
Description: A profound examination of decision-making during wartime, this documentary delves into the moral complexities and unintended consequences of political and military actions.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature and features rare interviews with former U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara.


Food, Inc. (2008)
Description: This documentary reveals the hidden costs of the industrial food system, including health risks and corporate exploitation, mirroring the exploration of systemic issues in other investigative films.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award and influenced consumer behavior toward organic and locally sourced foods.


The Cove (2009)
Description: A gripping expose on the dolphin hunting industry in Japan, this documentary highlights the ethical and environmental consequences of human actions, similar to how other films examine societal failures.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature and was shot using hidden cameras.


The Invisible War (2012)
Description: Focusing on sexual assault in the U.S. military, this documentary reveals systemic cover-ups and the emotional toll on survivors, paralleling the themes of institutional failure and trauma.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award and contributed to legislative reforms in the military.


The Act of Killing (2012)
Description: This documentary explores the psychological and moral consequences of violence by having perpetrators reenact their crimes, offering a chilling look at the human capacity for brutality.
Fact: The film uses surreal and theatrical techniques to depict the killers' distorted perspectives.


Blackfish (2013)
Description: This documentary exposes the dark side of the captive orca industry, focusing on the consequences of keeping intelligent animals in confinement, much like how systemic issues lead to tragic outcomes.
Fact: The film led to significant public backlash against SeaWorld and changes in their orca exhibition policies.


Citizenfour (2014)
Description: A real-time documentary about government surveillance and whistleblowing, it captures the tension and paranoia surrounding issues of security and privacy.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature and was shot in secret over several days in a Hong Kong hotel room.


The Hunting Ground (2015)
Description: This documentary examines the prevalence of sexual assault on college campuses and the institutional failures to address it, highlighting systemic issues similar to those seen in discussions of gun violence.
Fact: The film was screened at the White House and led to policy changes at several universities.


Tower (2016)
Description: Using a unique rotoscopic animation style, this documentary recounts a 1966 mass shooting at the University of Texas, focusing on survivor testimonies and the psychological impact of such events.
Fact: The film combines archival footage with animated reenactments to create a powerful narrative about trauma and resilience.
