Top 10 Documentaries on Religious Conflicts

Description: This documentary delves into an evangelical Christian summer camp where children are trained to become part of the "army of God." It explores the intersection of religion, politics, and education in America, sparking debates on religious indoctrination.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.

Description: This film, although a drama, delves into the personal and religious identity crisis of a Pakistani man in post-9/11 America, reflecting broader themes of religious conflict and identity.

Fact: The film was adapted from Mohsin Hamid's novel of the same name.

Description: This documentary, while not directly about religious conflict, explores the aftermath of the Indonesian mass killings where religious and political ideologies intersected. It provides a chilling look at how individuals involved in these atrocities perceive their actions through the lens of reenactments.

Fact: The film was banned in Indonesia, and its director, Joshua Oppenheimer, had to use aliases for the crew due to safety concerns.

Description: Although primarily about the Egyptian revolution, "The Square" captures the religious dynamics within the protests, showing how religious identity played a role in the political upheaval.

Fact: The film won the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival.

Description: While not a documentary, this film is based on real events during World War II where a French Red Cross doctor helps nuns who were raped by Soviet soldiers, exploring the intersection of religion, war, and trauma.

Fact: The film was inspired by the diary of Madeleine Pauliac, a French resistance fighter and doctor.

Description: This film documents the efforts of Liberian women to end the Second Liberian Civil War, highlighting the role of religion in both fueling and resolving conflict. It's a testament to the power of faith and unity in overcoming violence.

Fact: The film was instrumental in the Nobel Peace Prize nomination for Leymah Gbowee, one of the leaders of the movement.

Description: John Pilger's documentary examines the role of media in war, including how religious conflicts are portrayed or ignored, offering a critical look at the manipulation of public perception.

Fact: The film includes interviews with journalists and former military personnel, providing insider perspectives.

Description: This documentary follows two brothers working in the Bolivian silver mines where they pray to "El Tio," the devil, for protection. It highlights the syncretism of indigenous beliefs with Catholicism in a conflict-ridden environment.

Fact: The film was shot in the hazardous conditions of the mines, providing a raw and authentic portrayal of the miners' lives.

Description: This film tells the story of two religious leaders from Nigeria, one Muslim and one Christian, who work together to promote peace and reconciliation amidst religious violence.

Fact: The documentary was part of the BBC's "Why Poverty?" series.

Description: This documentary explores the lives of people living in the West Bank, focusing on the religious and political conflicts that shape their daily existence.

Fact: The film was directed by an Israeli filmmaker, offering a unique perspective on the conflict.