by Shane Conto
As the world of cinema remains mostly digital, what films can take advantage of viewers being home? Cheaper films that don’t usually get the attention on the small screen or on your phone screen can really stand tall and get noticed. One particular genre that relies on true stories and less on big budgets can really find their audience in this present norm. That genre…documentaries. What are some of the other documentaries that will capture audiences’ attention?
Never Be Done: The Richard Glen Lett Story – Prime Video (Rental)
Who is Richard Glen Lett? I never heard the name until I sat down to watch this documentary. By the end of this film, I felt like I knew this man down to the core. What an amazing character study Never Be Done turned out to be. Lett, a brash and alcoholic comedy north of the border, probably had just as many venues he was banned from as those that he headlined. This intimate film captures the thoughts of this man who never pulls punches when it comes to his own story. We witness the spiral from popular comedian to homeless and depressed addict to a new man who has found a new lease on life. Are you ready for this roller coaster ride of a story?
Disclosure – Netflix
What are the first thoughts you have when you think about trans people on film or television? Unfortunately, most of those thoughts probably are of men in drag played for laughs. Or they are probably victims of violence from a procedural drama. That is a terrible shame. Disclosure gives a new and fresh perspective from trans actors, writers, and creators. This documentary allowed me to gain a whole new perspective on what I thought saw on the screen. Perspective is so important. This documentary is so important as it gives a voice to a group that is so underrepresented. Are you prepared to hear the voice of a new perspective?
On the Record – HBO Max
What does #metoo mean to you? This hashtag has become one of the most eye-opening and important movements in our culture. On the Record brings the camera lens right onto music mogul Russell Simmons. This documentary was one of the launching original features for HBO Max and what an impact it makes. A running theme of some of the best documentaries this year is the ability to give a voice to the voiceless. When you sit down in your home to take in this film, you will get to hear the voices of many women who were hurt by those who had plenty of influence on their careers. Do you want to take some time and learn who Drew Dixon, Jenny Lumet, and others are? Trust me…it is worth the watch.
Dads– Apple TV+
How did you celebrate Father’s Day during quarantine this year? Apple TV+ offered a little documentary that you could enjoy from home. Dads is a documentary that celebrates the role a dad has in your life. Balancing interviews with celebrity dads and videos documenting the everyday good of a diverse group of dads, the film is able to paint a picture of the unique relationship each man can have with their children. Bryce Dallas Howard delivers a heartfelt directorial effort as she takes a special look into the fathers in her own famous family. Want a little film that you can enjoy with your dad? This one is just an Apple TV+ subscription away.
Other Music – Virtual Cinemas
Where do you buy your music? In this day and age, many people have the experience of Spotify, iTunes, and any other place where they can just stream their music. But what about physical media? I own a record player and love the days of going to the Princeton Record Exchange and digging through their extensive selection of all kinds of vinyl. That special feeling is captured so well in the love letter to the now defunct New York City music store, Other Music. Other Music is a documentary that not only tells the story of this culturally significant store but also captures the NYC lifestyle and the pure love of music. This one is scattered across the web in virtual cinemas but will you take the opportunity to get lost in the music?