Documentary Delights: What to Watch This Month
The proliferation of documentaries on streaming platforms can leave even the most enthusiastic viewer feeling overwhelmed. This month, I've handpicked three standout films that not only entertain but also provoke thought—a true testament to the power of nonfiction storytelling.
'The Universal Clock: The Resistance of Peter Watkins' (2001)
Available to stream via the National Film Board of Canada and also rent on Amazon.
Peter Watkins was a true innovator in documentary filmmaking. Best known for his groundbreaking 1967 film, “The War Game,” which blurred the lines between fact and fiction, Watkins spent his career challenging traditional storytelling. His latest tribute, “The Universal Clock,” brings to light his filmmaking philosophy and his concerns about commercial television.
The documentary examines his radical project “La Commune (Paris, 1871),” where nonprofessional actors reenacted a historical moment as if it were unfolding live. Watkins urged them to bring their own thoughts and emotions into the piece, turning a historical analysis into a participatory action. As viewers, we understand not only Watkins's methods but also the emotional undercurrents that fuel artistic expression.
“This film shows me that what I see on TV is really mediocre.” - Participant reflection.
Why You Should Watch
- Experience the unique interplay of history and modern critique.
- Gain insight into the philosophies of a maverick filmmaker.
- Witness how Watkins redefined audience engagement in film.
'Best of Enemies' (2015)
Stream it on platforms like Fandango at Home, Pluto, Roku, Tubi, or YouTube Movies.
Buckle up for a trip back to the electrifying debates between William F. Buckley and Gore Vidal during the 1968 conventions. This film captures the raw energy of their sparring matches, which were as much about their personal animosity as they were about politics.
Our view today is tinted by nostalgic longing for a time when public figures engaged in intellectual duels instead of mere soundbites. Watching Buckley and Vidal surveil each other's vulnerabilities is both fascinating and cringeworthy—each exchange reveals a layer of privilege and pent-up frustration.
As the directors Robert Gordon and Morgan Neville provide context and analysis from political experts, we can't help but reflect on how much television has changed. The cultural implications of these debates echo in today's polarized media landscape.
“Best of Enemies” is not just about a debate but an exploration of the psychology behind public figures.
What Makes This Documentary Stand Out
- Revisit the roots of televised political discourse.
- Explore the dichotomy of personalities and perspectives.
- Experience the nostalgic cringing of moderated debate gone rogue.
'My Mom Jayne' (2025)
Available to stream on HBO Max. You can also rent it on Amazon, Apple TV, Fandango at Home, and YouTube Movies.
In “My Mom Jayne,” Mariska Hargitay delves into the life of her mother, iconic actress Jayne Mansfield. Often remembered as nothing more than a blonde bombshell, this film offers a poignant exploration of her complex identity as a mother and performer.
Hargitay's journey is both personal and universal—a quest to understand a mother who left this world too soon. The documentary skillfully juxtaposes her mother's glamorous public persona with intimate reflections from family members, revealing layers to Mansfield that were often overshadowed by her allure.
Why It Resonates
- It steps away from the clichés of celebrity culture.
- Connects familial love to the complexities of public perception.
- Offers a unique emotional depth rare in simple biographical storytelling.
As we navigate this month's streaming offerings, let's elevate our viewing experiences. Each of these documentaries promises a fresh lens on art, politics, and personal history. Watch, reflect, and—most importantly—enjoy!
Source reference: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/11/28/movies/three-great-documentaries-to-stream.html
