Documentary Weekly

Jan 13

Jan 13 5 films on why we should never take democracy for granted

The liberal democratic model is at a crossroads. Elections and political unrest around the world have exposed the cracks in our individualist, utilitarian path towards progress. As democracy recedes, people are turning towards authoritarian and theocratic leaders. It is sometimes hard to see this tide turning, but thankfully, documentaries are here to help. Doc Weekly was in attendance at the International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam (IDFA) to pick out five of the of the most urgent films on the subject, including new 2024 and 2025 releases from Petra Costa and Asif Kapadia.

Nov 16

Nov 16 Stoner Frog Turned Neo-Nazi Mascot ?

Bryn Thomas

Article, Film, Out Now

Feels Good Man charts the devolution of a cartoon frog from comic book, to internet meme, to its unlikely arrival in the world of American politics.

Nov 2

Nov 2 'Totally Under Control' Or not? New Doc Reveals Trump’s Doomed Covid Response

Davi Merchan

Article, Film, Out Now, Screening

Why did the United States fail to reckon with a danger for which it should have been so well prepared? Renowned director Alex Gibney digs deep to unearth the Trump administration’s doomed response to the Covid 19 crisis.

Aug 5

Aug 5 Trolls, Memes And Press Ups - What Happens When You Ask 1000 Teenage Boys To Form A Government?

Benjamin Hollis

Film, Festival, Article, Screening

Since “Boys State” won Best Documentary at Sundance (beating audience award-winner “Crip Camp”), it’s received a steady stream of critical acclaim including a five-star review from the Guardian and even a few shouts for best film of the year. Exceptionally, its now premiering online as part of Sundance London on the 9th of August and we highly recommend you tune in.

May 8

May 8 The Woman Behind Every Man in Philippine Politics

Gabriella Volak

Article, Film, Out Now

Imelda Marcos has an ethereal quality that suggests untouchability. Her implicit involvement in Aquino’s assassination, her embezzlement of billions of US dollars and her provocation of debt crises do not appear to dent her self-assurance.

Jan 10

Jan 10 "It was a hard day to be filming" - Capturing Brazil's social turmoil on election day

Benjamin Hollis

Interview, Festival

At this year's International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam (IDFA), we sat down with directors Rica Saito and Caio Castor to discuss their short film “Batalha” or “Battle”.

Dec 2

Dec 2 Investigative documentary "The Dirty War on the NHS" is a stark warning to British voters

Benjamin Hollis

Film, Article, Screening

With Britain heading to the polls next week, a revelatory new film by BAFTA-winner John Pilger, lifts the lid on the NHS’ covert privatisation in the past few years. Find out where you can watch it.