A24 Celebrity Documentaries Released Last Year

An intimate and revelatory portrait of Jane Goodall, assembled entirely from the thousands of hours of footage she shot herself in the 1960s. The film offers a fresh perspective on her groundbreaking work with chimpanzees and her lifelong advocacy, presented with A24’s signature visual flair.

An immersive documentary that immerses the viewer in the life and art of Frida Kahlo through her own paintings, personal letters, and home movies. The film explores her identity, her relationship with Diego Rivera, and the physical and emotional pain that fueled her iconic creative output.

A comprehensive look at the influential New York band, featuring exclusive archival footage and interviews with former members. The documentary examines the group's profound impact on modern music and culture, highlighting their avant-garde approach and the chaotic dynamics within the band.

This biographical documentary explores the life and controversial work of photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, using his own camera to create a self-portrait. It delves into his relationships, his exploration of sexuality, and his lasting influence on the art world, challenging viewers to confront his complex legacy.

An intimate behind-the-scenes look at Lady Gaga’s life leading up to the Super Bowl 50 halftime show. The film captures her vulnerability, creative process, and the personal sacrifices required to maintain her global stardom, offering a raw glimpse into the woman behind the persona.

Narrated by her daughter, this documentary reveals the transformation of Nina Simone from a classical pianist to a civil rights icon. It uses unseen archival footage and audio recordings to explore her musical genius and her fierce activism against racial injustice in America.

This documentary chronicles the ill-fated but legendary attempt by Alejandro Jodorowsky to adapt Frank Herbert's 'Dune' in the 1970s. It features interviews with the original cast and crew, exploring how this unrealized project influenced science fiction cinema and the creation of 'Blade Runner'.

Starting as an investigation into doping in sports, this Oscar-winning documentary spirals into a geopolitical thriller exposing state-sponsored drug use in Russia. It features breathtaking footage and high-stakes interviews, revealing the complicity of high-level officials in a massive global conspiracy.

A heartfelt examination of the life and legacy of Fred Rogers, the beloved host of 'Mister Rogers' Neighborhood. The film explores his compassionate approach to childhood education and his enduring impact on American culture, supported by rare archival footage and interviews with those who knew him.

A poetic and lyrical portrait of life in rural Alabama, following several families and community members. The film captures the beauty, struggle, and resilience of Black life in the South, offering a meditative and visually stunning glimpse into a specific time and place.

An urgent and personal account of the political upheaval in Brazil, interweaving the filmmaker’s own family history with the impeachment of President Dilma Rousseff. It serves as a cautionary tale about the fragility of democratic institutions and the rise of populism in the modern era.

This inspiring documentary tells the story of a summer camp for teenagers with disabilities in the 1970s that helped spark the disability rights movement. Through personal testimonies and archival footage, it highlights the courage and activism of individuals who challenged societal norms and fought for equality.

A biographical documentary focusing on the life and career of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. It chronicles her journey as a pioneering feminist lawyer and her impact on gender equality law, portraying her as a cultural icon and a symbol of perseverance and justice.

This documentary uncovers previously unseen footage from the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival, a pivotal moment in music history that preceded Woodstock. It celebrates the talents of Black artists and the community’s role in the civil rights movement, offering a vibrant and long-overdue tribute.

An animated documentary that tells the true story of Amin Nawabi, a Afghan refugee who has spent years hiding his past. Using motion capture animation, the film explores themes of identity, trauma, and memory, providing a deeply personal and innovative perspective on the refugee experience.

A mesmerizing look at the life and work of volcanologists Katia and Maurice Krafft, who died together in a volcanic eruption. The film uses stunning archival footage to capture their passion for nature and each other, portraying them as romantic figures dedicated to their dangerous craft.

This thriller-like documentary follows the efforts of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny and his team as they track down his assassin. It combines investigative journalism with personal stakes, revealing the dangerous political landscape of Russia and the courage of those who resist authoritarianism.

An urgent investigative documentary that exposes corruption in Romania’s healthcare system following a deadly nightclub fire. The film captures the bravery of journalists and citizens who challenge political power, highlighting the risks of truth-telling in a post-communist society.

A personal and poignant documentary about musician Jon Brion’s efforts to compose a symphony while his partner, musician Meg Duffy, battles a rare autoimmune disease. The film explores the intersection of art, love, and illness, capturing the emotional turbulence of their shared journey.

This harrowing documentary offers an insider’s view of the war in Ukraine, filmed by MFA journalists trapped in the besieged city of Mariupol. The footage provides a raw and unfiltered look at the human cost of conflict, serving as a crucial historical record of the early stages of the invasion.