The last documentary that I watched, in its entirety, is the latest PBS Frontline special about the first four years of the Obama administration. Yes, I enjoy watching PBS and documentaries, as I don't understand what's so great about crime dramas and the Jersey Shore. I find being smart and knowing what's going on around the world very entertaining.
So I don't waste too much time playing Wii, playing poker, and watching West Wing, I'm making a list of the six documentaries I'm going to watch next. It beats staring at all the pictures and facing the ultimate decision of choosing one to watch. I'll make my choices now and watch later. I compiled this list based on what the International Documentary Association and POV have listed as some of the best documentaries of all time, as well as some recommendations from friends.
The Pruitt-Igoe Myth
This one was pestering me as a Netflix recommendation for some time, and then I learned the Pruitt-Igoe housing complex was actually in St. Louis and demolished in the 60s. Pruitt-Igoe was built and touted as a government solution to cheap housing for the poor, but when set up so that the government would pay for building it and wouldn't pay to maintain it. I'm halfway through it, so this is first on the list so I get around to finishing it.
The Invisible War
This documentary was recommended by a friend, and calls attention to little-known facts about the high prevalence of rape within the ranks of America's armed forces. Interviews with military personnel, elected officials and rape victims provide alarming evidence. It's probably not going to be easy to watch.
Roger & Me
This was Michael Moore's first documentary, and I have yet to see it. Enjoyed Sicko, Bowling for Columbine, and Fahrenheit 9/11. Turns out corporations have been all about profits since the 80s.
Grey Gardens
Came in the top spot on POV's list, and its about the lives of Jackie Onassis's aunt and cousin at their decaying estate, Grey Gardens. Doesn't seem like it would be all that profound or interesting, but I figure it must have gotten the top spot for reason.
Hoop Dreams
This one is within the top five of both lists, and I've never heard of it. The movie is about two boys from the Chicago ghetto who try to use their basketball skills to get out. Sounds interesting enough, and I can stream it on Netflix so I don't have to reorder my queue.
The Thin Blue Line
Another one on the top five of both lists, another one that I can stream live, and another one that I've never heard of. Best of all, this is a criminal justice documentary, an investigation into the murder of Dallas police officer that ultimately released the innocent man who was originally charged and convicted of the crime.
Harlan County, U.S.A.
This is yet another on the top five of both lists, although this one I can't stream live. Too bad, because this one is about labor unions and workers' rights, two human rights issues I am very interested in. Highlighting the struggles of families living in shacks with no indoor plumbing and enduring hazardous working conditions, the film details the conflict between the Eastover Mining Co. and the laborers determined to join the United Mine Workers of America. Exciting!
Okay, that's all I have. Nothing else on those lists interest me, and this is probably enough to keep me occupied for a bit. Besides, some new documentaries might come out and catch my attention. However, do you have any suggestions for me? If so, I'd love to hear them.