There have been so many intriguing and accomplished documentaries in 2006 that we decided to give them their own list.
1. When the Levees Broke
The most infuriating documentary of the year didn't open in theaters, so there won't be any Oscars for Spike Lee's outstanding 4-1/2 hour film about Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath. An absolutely essential document.
2. An Inconvenient Truth
By carefully outlining the science behind global warming, Al Gore builds a rational argument that is impossible to take lightly: acknowledging the reality of climate change is not a political issue but a moral choice.3. Our Daily Bread
In a series of striking images, Nikolaus Geyrhalter observes the industrialized production of food. What he finds is both eerily beautiful and profoundly unsettling.4. This Movie is Not Yet Rated
Kirby Dick's expose about the MPAA ratings board reveals a secretive, undemocratic group that is accountable to no one. With the help of private detectives and delicious montages of censored material, This Movie is Not Yet Rated makes its argument with compulsively watchable vigor and wit.5. Neil Young: Heart of Gold
There is something reassuring in the steady simplicity of Heart of Gold, Jonathan Demme's moving film about a Neil Young concert at Nashville's Ryman Auditorium last year. Without frills, a master songwriter performs songs about fathers, friends, God, the wind, and his old guitar, and his lovable, courageous doggedness speaks for itself.6. The Road to Guantanamo
Michael Winterbottom's reenactment makes a news story about three men detained in Afghanistan come alive with eye-opening intensity.7. Jesus Camp
A timely reminder that the fringes of any religion tend to breed overzealous extremists. The brainwashing techniques with which pastor Becky Fischer and former Presidential adviser Ted Haggard indoctrinate middle-American children are downright frightening. Directed by Heidi Ewing and Rachel Grady.8. Why We Fight
Eugene Jarecki's history lesson, which traces the growth of the military-industrial complex since Eisenhower coined the term in his farewell address, does an excellent job at contextualizing the current Iraq war. Jarecki's simple advice? Follow the money.9. The Ground Truth
With tremendous courage, soldiers returning from Iraq tell harrowing stories about what they did and what it did to them. Patricia Foulkrod's film ought to be seen by anyone who still supports the war.10. Crossing the Bridge
Directed by Fatih Akin, Einstürzende Neubauten bassist Alexander Hacke travels to Istanbul to explore and record the city’s rich musical scene, resulting in a highly satisfying tasting menu of live performances by people you've never heard of.World Film Forum
Agree? Disagree? Post your top ten list in the forum.
