Top Documentaries On HBO Max Right Now

Lists
Written By Habiba Abdou

Documentaries are a fantastic way to learn about events, people, and places, and to hear different perspectives and opinions. HBO Max is a streaming platform with a vast collection of documentaries that audiences can enjoy without the need for a movie theater or any extra costs. In this article, we have compiled a list of the best documentaries available on HBO Max at the moment. From "LFG" to "Tony Hawk: Until the Wheels Fall Off," these documentaries embody thought-provoking storytelling, mesmerizing cinematography, and captivating narratives.

LFG (2021)

"LFG" is a documentary that portrays the fight for women's equality in professional soccer. The documentary follows the United States Women's National Soccer Team, who accuses the U.S. Soccer Federation of gender discrimination. The movie was directed by Andrea Nix Fine and Sean Fine and does an excellent job of highlighting the immense challenges women face in sports. People who love sports, advocacy, or women's rights will find "LFG" a powerful tale of strength, resilience and persistence.

Heaven's Gate: The Cult of Cults (2020)

"Heaven's Gate: The Cult of Cults" examines the belief system and members of one of the most infamous cults in the United States. The documentary, created by Clay Tweel, explores the cult's commune and its members' actions, which culminated in a mass suicide in 1997. "Heaven's Gate" is a must-watch for fans of true crime, society, and Psychology.

Beanie Mania (2021)

"Beanie Mania" is a whimsical documentary that investigates the Beanie Baby craze of the late 90s. Suzanne Floyd Beasley creates a nostalgic journey through the minds and home of collectors who were hopelessly hooked on buying Beanie Babies by the thousands. The documentary highlights how fads can take over consumer culture and fuel an entire economy for a brief moment in time.

Allen v. Farrow (2021)

In this documentary movie, filmmakers Kirby Dick and Amy Ziering take us through the journey of a high-profile family court trial that surrounded Woody Allen's alleged sexual assault claims. "Allen v. Farrow" is full of archival footage and personal interviews with the family members who were involved in this case. This documentary should be viewed with caution as the topic may be sensitive to some.

Not So Pretty (2022)

"Not So Pretty" is a thought-provoking documentary about the beauty industry. It points out the harmful chemicals used in beauty products and how they can impact our health and the environment. Stacy Malkan, the director, takes us around the world in an exploration of the toxic and environmentally irresponsible side of the beauty industry.

Tony Hawk: Until the Wheels Fall Off (2022)

"Tony Hawk: Until the Wheels Fall Off" is a fantastic biography of one of skateboarding's biggest names. The documentary takes us through Tony Hawk's early days, his rise to fame, and his continued advocacy for the sport. The documentary also showcases some of the downfalls he experienced along the way.

Fake Famous (2021)

Fake Famous, directed by Nick Bilton, explores influencer culture in today’s society. The documentary features three individuals who were picked based on their lack of Instagram followers and experience in brand promotion. They are given resources to help them become influencers, and as they rise in popularity, the truth behind their posed and curated lifestyles are exposed. This documentary will leave you questioning the validity of social media influencers and the world they live in.

Phoenix Rising (2022)

Directed by Brandon Kramer, Phoenix Rising is a documentary that follows a group of individuals during their journey to overcome homelessness in Washington D.C. It highlights the underlying issues that lead people to become homeless in the first place, such as the lack of affordable housing and the cycle of poverty. This documentary will make you appreciate the simple things in life and bring awareness to the ongoing issue of homelessness in America.

Being Mary Tyler Moore (2023)

Being Mary Tyler Moore is an upcoming documentary that will dive deep into the life of Mary Tyler Moore, the iconic actress and producer. Directed by James Adolphus, this documentary will look at her life and career, including her struggles and accomplishments, ultimately showing how Moore’s life and work inspired generations.

The Inventor: Out for Blood in Silicon Valley (2019)

Directed by Alex Gibney, The Inventor: Out for Blood in Silicon Valley is a documentary about the rise and fall of Elizabeth Holmes, the founder of Theranos, a blood-testing startup. The documentary uncovers the truth about the company’s fraud and how so many people were deceived by Holmes’ lies. This documentary is a cautionary tale about keeping an eye out for people who seem too good to be true.

The Vow (2020-2022)

The Vow is an HBO docuseries that explores the inner workings of NXIVM, a self-help organization whose members were eventually charged with crimes, including sex trafficking. Directors Jehane Noujaim and Karim Amer follow former members and expose the manipulation and brainwashing that went on inside the cult. This series will leave you feeling outraged and sympathetic towards the victims.

Class Action Park (2020)

Class Action Park, directed by Seth Porges and Chris Charles Scott III, is a documentary about the infamous dangerous amusement park, Action Park, in New Jersey. The documentary highlights the lack of safety regulations in the past and the serious injuries and even deaths that occurred. This documentary will have you shaking your head in disbelief at the recklessness that went on.

All the Beauty and the Bloodshed (2022)

All the Beauty and the Bloodshed, directed by Michael Epstein, is a documentary about the struggles of female journalists reporting from dangerous war zones. The documentary features interviews with journalists, from history to modern-day, who have been on the front lines and the obstacles they faced covering conflicts. This documentary will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the bravery of journalists around the world.

Marina Abramović: The Artist is Present (2012)

This groundbreaking documentary captures the remarkable life and artistry of Marina Abramović, one of today’s most inspiring and provocative artists. The film follows Abramović as she prepares for her 2010 retrospective at New York's Museum of Modern Art, where she performed "The Artist is Present," an intense piece that invites visitors to come sit with her, completely motionless and silent, for a minute or many hours. It’s an emotional and mesmerizing display of strength, endurance, and sheer determination that will leave everyone who watches both shocked and moved.

Love, Lizzo (2022)

Love, Lizzo (2022), is a documentary that tracks the journey of the unstoppable pop star Lizzo as she soars to the top of the charts. The film captures Lizzo in her most intimate moments, revealing the complexities and vulnerabilities behind her infectious positive energy. With a unique style and a captivating voice, Lizzo’s journey to self-love and empowerment has touched the hearts of millions, and this documentary shows why.

On the Record (2020)

For something a little more thought-provoking, check out On the Record (2020), which follows the stories of several women who claim that hip-hop mogul Russell Simmons sexually assaulted them. The film explores the broader issues of sexual misconduct, race, and power within the music industry and ultimately serves as a call-to-action for change. It’s an important film that will spark important conversations.

Tina (2021)

Tina (2021) tells the story of the legendary Tina Turner, from her humble beginnings to international stardom. This documentary explores the price of glory and the pain of abuse that lurked behind her famous smile. Turner's resilience and vulnerability are on full display as she reflects on her tumultuous life, including her escape from a brutal marriage and her incredible comeback. It's a touching tribute to a musical icon.

The Bee Gees: How Can You Mend a Broken Heart (2020)

The Bee Gees: How Can You Mend a Broken Heart (2020) is an enormously entertaining and enlightening film about the rise, fall, and rise again of one of pop music's most beloved groups. The film traces the group's entire career, from their humble beginnings to their superstardom, through the tragedies and triumphs, and finally, their enduring legacy. It's an incredible trip down memory lane that will make everyone realize how much they love the Bee Gees!

Diego Maradona (2019)

Finally, there’s Diego Maradona (2019), an intimate look at one of soccer's most legendary and controversial figures. The documentary tells the story of Maradona's meteoric rise to fame and his struggles with drug addiction and personal demons. This gripping film takes you through the highs and lows of Maradona's life, showing another side of the player we all thought we knew.

Conclusion

HBO Max is redefining the documentary genre with fresh takes on traditional topics, breathtaking cinematography, and captivating storytelling. Whether you're interested in sports, true crime, or just want some nostalgia, these documentaries on HBO Max will not disappoint. From the heart-wrenching story of the US soccer team's fight for gender equality in "LFG" to the Beanie Baby craze's wild ride in "Beanie Mania," the topics covered by these documentaries are sure to keep you engaged.

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Habiba Abdou
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