6 Must-See Documentaries About Inspiring Women
If you’ve already worked your way through every series on offer, now is the perfect time to turn your attention to some factual entertainment television. From civil rights crusaders to iconic musicians, here’s a must-see list of documentaries exploring the world’s most interesting and inspiring women.
What Happened Miss Simone?
“What Happened, Miss Simone?” is a documentary following the life of the singer Nina Simone, directed by Liz Garbus. It was Netflix’s first commissioned documentary in 2015 and includes previously unreleased footage, as well as numerous interviews with Simone’s daughter and friends. Exploring the artist’s early life, her participation in the civil rights movement throughout the 1960s and her later life, it is a thought-provoking film traversing the talent, success and struggles of a truly unique artist.
Netflix
Michelle Obama, Becoming
Michelle Obama’s new documentary Becoming is here to provide positivity, humanity and kindness – so if you’re looking for escapism, this is the must-see for you. Sharing the same title as her best-selling memoir, the Netflix documentary offers a closer look at the former First Lady’s international book tour, as well the connections she made and the lessons she has learnt throughout her life.
Netflix
Amy
This 2016 Oscar-winning documentary gives fans an intimate look into the life, career, struggles and death of musician Amy Winehouse. Delving into archives of footage of the singer-songwriter herself, alongside testimonials from close friends and family members, it offers a closer consideration of the figure behind all of the headlines.
Amazon
Joan Didion: The Center Will Not Hold
In an intimate profile directed by her nephew, the actor and director Griffin Dunne, documentary Joan Didion: The Center Will Not Hold, uncovers archival footage of Joan talking at length about her eventful life. From partying with Janis Joplin to spending time with Jim Morrison at recording studios, we get an insight into the history and mind of this fascinating woman.
Netflix
Maya Angelou, And Still I Rise
This comprehensive feature documentary about the remarkable author, poet, actress and activist Maya Angelou is an essential watch, including captivating interviews with the subject herself and original footage that will leave you wanting to know more. It celebrates the story of a woman who truly persevered in the face of adversity and became a pioneering activist for African Americans in the United States.
Amazon
Gaga: Five Foot Two
Get an insight into the life and persona of Lady Gaga, following the release of her album Joanne. Exploring the conflicts of working in a male-dominated industry, managing limelight and fame, as well as living with an illness that affects her ability to perform, we see the artist in a whole new (up-close-and-personal) light.
Netflix
