If you were captivated by the raw and revealing documentary 'Chasing Beauty (2013),' which delves into the high-stakes world of modeling and the pursuit of physical perfection, you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that offer the same compelling mix of glamour, ambition, and the darker side of beauty standards. Whether you're fascinated by the fashion industry or intrigued by the psychological toll of chasing an ideal, these recommendations will keep you hooked.

Brandy Hellville & the Cult of Fast Fashion (2024)
Description: This recent documentary parallels 'Chasing Beauty' in its examination of how fashion brands manipulate consumer psychology and body image. Both films critique the toxic culture surrounding beauty and fashion industries.
Fact: Investigates the controversial practices of a specific fast fashion brand. Includes insider accounts from former employees. Explores the environmental impact of disposable fashion.


The True Cost (2015)
Description: Similar to 'Chasing Beauty' (2013), 'The True Cost' delves into the darker side of the fashion industry, exposing the ethical and environmental consequences of consumerism. Both documentaries critique societal beauty standards and the exploitation behind glamorous industries.
Fact: Directed by Andrew Morgan, the film features interviews with environmentalists, garment workers, and fashion industry insiders. It was partially funded through a Kickstarter campaign. The documentary sparked global discussions about fast fashion's impact.


Botched (2014)
Description: This reality TV series shares with 'Chasing Beauty' an exploration of the consequences of extreme beauty procedures. While more entertainment-focused, it similarly reveals the dangers and psychological drivers behind radical physical transformations.
Fact: Stars plastic surgeons Terry Dubrow and Paul Nassif. Has run for multiple seasons since 201Features both celebrity and everyday patient cases.


Plastic Disasters (2006)
Description: Like 'Chasing Beauty', this documentary examines the extreme measures people take to conform to beauty standards, focusing specifically on plastic surgery gone wrong. Both films reveal the psychological and physical risks associated with society's obsession with perfection.
Fact: Features real-life cases of botched cosmetic procedures. Includes interviews with both patients and surgeons. Highlights the lack of regulation in some countries' cosmetic surgery industries.


Fashion's Dirty Secrets (2018)
Description: Similar to 'Chasing Beauty', this documentary exposes the hidden environmental costs behind the fashion industry's glamorous facade. Both films challenge viewers to reconsider their consumption habits and the true price of beauty.
Fact: Presented by British journalist Stacey Dooley. Reveals shocking statistics about water pollution from clothing production. Was broadcast as part of BBC's 'Panorama' series.


Skin Deep (2018)
Description: This documentary shares with 'Chasing Beauty' an exploration of how beauty standards affect mental health and self-perception. Both films combine personal stories with broader cultural analysis of the beauty industry.
Fact: Focuses on young people's experiences with body image. Includes expert commentary from psychologists. Was produced in collaboration with mental health organizations.


The Perfect Vagina (2008)
Description: Similar to 'Chasing Beauty', this controversial documentary examines the growing trend of cosmetic genital surgery and society's unrealistic beauty standards. Both films challenge notions of 'normal' and 'perfect' bodies.
Fact: Features interviews with women who underwent labiaplasty. Includes perspectives from surgeons and feminists. Sparked debate about medical ethics and body image.


Girl Model (2011)
Description: This documentary parallels 'Chasing Beauty' in its exploration of the modeling industry's exploitation of young women. Both films reveal the disturbing realities behind the glamorous facade of fashion and beauty.
Fact: Follows a 13-year-old Siberian girl entering the modeling industry. Exposes the shady practices of model scouting agencies. Was shot over several years, showing the long-term impacts.


The Illusionists (2015)
Description: Like 'Chasing Beauty', this global documentary investigates how Western beauty standards are being exported worldwide, creating a homogenized ideal. Both films critique the commercialization of beauty and its psychological impacts.
Fact: Filmed in over a dozen countries. Examines the $500 billion beauty industry. Features perspectives from marketing executives and psychologists.


Tiny Shoulders: Rethinking Barbie (2018)
Description: This documentary shares with 'Chasing Beauty' an examination of how cultural icons shape beauty standards. Both films analyze the complex relationship between popular media and body image issues.
Fact: Chronicles Barbie's 2016 body diversity makeover. Features interviews with Mattel executives and cultural critics. Includes rare archival footage of Barbie's development.
