50 Documentaries To See Before You Die

Watch 50 Documentaries To See Before You Die

  • 2011
  • 1 Season
  • 7.3  (105)

50 Documentaries To See Before You Die is a television series that aired on Current TV in 2011. Hosted by famous filmmaker Morgan Spurlock, along with film critics Christy Lemire and Michael Renov, the show aims to educate viewers about the most significant and thought-provoking documentaries ever made.

Each episode of the series features a set of five documentaries, all of which have been carefully curated and selected by the show's producers. The documentaries are presented in no particular order, and they cover a broad range of subjects, including politics, society, culture, art, and history.

The show features interviews with expert commentators and filmmakers who offer their insight into the documentaries being discussed. They provide a deeper understanding of the issues tackled in the films and the impact they have had on society. Additionally, viewers get to witness behind-the-scenes footage and learn about the filmmaking techniques used to create each documentary.

Morgan Spurlock, not only the host of the show, but also a renowned documentary filmmaker, brings an intimate knowledge of the industry to the series. His passion for documentaries is evident in every episode as he introduces each film with a brief but informative overview of its subject matter. Through his engaging personality and humor, Spurlock makes even the most complex documentaries accessible to a broader audience.

Christy Lemire, one of the show's commentators, is a talented journalist and film critic who brings her expertise and knowledge of cinema to the series. Michael Renov, who is a professor of critical studies at the University of Southern California, offers a more academic perspective on the films. Together, Spurlock, Lemire, and Renov provide a well-rounded and insightful look at the world of documentaries.

One of the key features of the show is its diversity in terms of the documentaries chosen. The show doesn't focus on just one particular genre or era. Instead, it includes films from different countries, made at different times, and in different styles. The selection includes both well-known documentaries, such as Grey Gardens and Hoop Dreams, as well as lesser-known but equally powerful films like The Act of Killing and The Fog of War.

The show also places a strong emphasis on the impact that documentaries can have on both individuals and society as a whole. Viewers are encouraged not only to watch the films but also to reflect on their own beliefs and values. The show highlights the role that documentaries can play in shining a light on important issues and making a real difference in the world.

Despite the show being almost ten years old, it remains relevant today. With the rise of streaming services and a growing interest in factual programming, the appetite for documentaries has never been stronger. The show serves as both an educational tool and a source of inspiration for those interested in the power of film.

Overall, 50 Documentaries To See Before You Die is a must-watch for any documentary enthusiast or someone looking for thought-provoking and inspiring television. The mix of informative commentary, behind-the-scenes footage, and engaging personalities makes for an engaging and educational viewing experience. Watching the films recommended by the show is not only entertaining but can also be a vital step towards a greater understanding of our world.

50 Documentaries To See Before You Die
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Seasons
Episode 5
5. Episode 5
August 30, 2011
After weeks spent traveling across America in search of modern documentary's most iconic directors and compelling subjects, Spurlock ends his journey in Illinois. There he meets Steve James, the director of "Hoop Dreams," along with the film's stars Arthur Agee and William Gates to talk about what made the documentary memorable. Notable interviewees include: Al Gore; Michael Moore; Errol Morris; D. A. Pennebaker and Chris Hegedus; Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman; Tony Hawk and Jack Osbourne.
Episode 4
4. Episode 4
August 23, 2011
As Spurlock travels across America in search of modern documentary's most compelling directors and iconic subjects, he heads to Pittsburgh to find out if the transvestite ball scene, so memorably captured in the 1990 cult film "Paris Is Burning" is still raging in all its voguing, pose-striking glory. Along the road, he interviews some of the countdown's top filmmakers and authors, including Nick Broomfield, Jared Leto, and Aisha Tyler.
Episode 3
3. Episode 3
August 16, 2011
Spurlock reveals films number 30 through 21 as he kicks off this leg of his journey with Michael Moore, who talks about what drove him to make the box office hit "Fahrenheit 9/11." In Los Angeles, he finally meets up with mercurial Mr. Brainwash from Banksy's hit film "Exit Through the Gift Shop" (2010) all in an effort to find out whether he is real or an elaborate art hoax.
Episode 2
2. Episode 2
August 9, 2011
"50 Documentaries to See Before You Die" presents a special interview with the director of the academy award winning documentary "One Day in September," Kevin MacDonald.
Episode 1
1. Episode 1
August 2, 2011
50 Greatest Documentaries to See Before You Die presents a special interview with the director of "Roger & Me," Michael Moore.
Description
  • Premiere Date
    August 2, 2011
  • IMDB Rating
    7.3  (105)