Documentary filmmaking in 2024 reached new heights, offering gripping narratives that explored human resilience, cultural history, and pressing global issues. From inspiring personal journeys to thought-provoking social commentaries, these documentaries not only educated but also deeply moved audiences worldwide. Here are some of the standout documentaries from this year that left an unforgettable mark.
Mountain Queen: The Summits of Lhakpa Sherpa
This inspiring documentary, directed by Lucy Walker, tells the story of Lhakpa Sherpa, the first woman to climb Mount Everest ten times. It showcases her extraordinary determination, not just in conquering mountains but also in navigating life’s daily struggles. Living in Connecticut and working tirelessly to support her daughters, Lhakpa’s journey is a powerful tale of perseverance and ambition. Now available for streaming on Netflix, this film serves as an ode to human strength and resilience.
Soundtrack to a Coup d’État
A masterpiece by Johan Grimonprez, this documentary explores the assassination of Congolese leader Patrice Lumumba and its intricate connection to jazz music during the Cold War. Through rare archival footage and in-depth storytelling, it unveils how music played a role in both political manipulation and resistance. With its powerful narrative and historical insights, this film is set to make waves in the documentary world when it premieres in theaters in early 2025.
Will & Harper
This heartwarming documentary follows the journey of comedian Will Ferrell and his longtime friend, writer Harper Steele, as they embark on a cross-country road trip. With Harper navigating life as a transgender woman, the film captures their evolving friendship, personal reflections, and moments of profound vulnerability. A deeply personal and moving story, this documentary is a must-watch for anyone seeking a film that balances humor with heartfelt storytelling. Available on Netflix.
Daughters
This emotionally charged documentary highlights a groundbreaking program aimed at reconnecting incarcerated fathers with their daughters. It offers a deeply moving look at family bonds, redemption, and the struggles of maintaining relationships across prison walls. Through real-life stories, Daughters shines a light on the complex dynamics of parenthood and second chances, making it one of the most touching documentaries of the year.
Dahomey
Focusing on the restitution of African artifacts, Dahomey tells the story of priceless historical treasures being returned from France to Benin. The film takes an introspective look at the impact of colonialism, the importance of cultural heritage, and the movement to restore stolen artifacts to their rightful places. It’s a thought-provoking film that challenges viewers to rethink history and justice.
2024 has been a remarkable year for documentaries, with filmmakers bringing untold stories to life in powerful and innovative ways. Whether focusing on historical injustices, personal transformations, or the resilience of the human spirit, these films have inspired and educated audiences around the world. As streaming platforms and theaters continue to bring these important stories to light, documentary filmmaking remains one of the most impactful forms of storytelling in modern cinema.
