True, documentaries often deal with serious issues that you might not want to think about during the holidays, but there are very many titles that bring laughter, hope and inspiration along with knowledge and insight -- and they're ideal seasonal gifts for people who love to watch and share great movies. Here's my list. Please add your suggestions!
Best Worst Movie
Docurama Films
All about the shooting and cult status of Troll 2, decreed to be the Best Worst Movie of all time, this documentary was directed by Michael Paul Stephenson, who was a child star in Troll 2 and lived to tell about it and to become, along with co-star George Hardy, a cult hero. The film is thoroughly entertaining, whether you're a Troll 2-ite or not. Available on DVD. Compare prices
Circus
PBS
Who hasn't dreamed of running off to join the circus? Now you and your family can do so together with this six-hour PBS documentary that takes you on a year-long tour with the Big Apple Circus, showing you all the spectacle inside the big top and the drama behind the scenes, and introducing you to the wonderful artists who thrill you with their magnificently daring performances. Watch the six hours all at once, or as individual episodes. It's a thrilling trip! Available on DVD. Compare prices.
Jean-Michel Basquiat: Radiant Child
Arthouse Films
Jean-Michel Basquiat's rise to art star status was meteoric and then, after a short bout with fame and riches, he died at age 27, leaving a legacy that transformed modern art. His fascinating story is beautifully documented by Tamara Davis, who was a friend of Basquiat's. This isn't a cheerful film, but it's a great and engaging gift for anyone who loves art and is intrigued by popular culture. Available on DVD. Compare prices
Joan Rivers: A Piece of Work
IFC Films
Joan Rivers is brilliant, and brilliantly funny. This intimate profile of the famed comedienne takes you behind the scenes of her career and into her personal world, where she chooses to have the last laugh on tragedy and hardship. Even if you're not a big Joan Rivers fan now, you will be after seeing this documentary. Joan is fabulous! A real inspiration! Available on DVD. Compare prices
The September Issue
Roadside Attractions
The September Issue covers the preparation of Vogue Magazine's annual style-setter, and profiles prima fashionista, Anna Wintour, who is arguably the world's most influential taste-maker. R.J. Cutler follows Wintour into editorial meetings, at fashion shows and in her home, where she asks her teenage daughter's opinion about fashion and photographs! Available on DVD. Compare prices.
We Are Wizards
Brooklyn Underground Films
If you're sad there are no new Harry Potter books to give as gifts and the feature films are coming to a conclusion, you'll be glad to know that J.K. Rowling's wizarding tradition is being carried on in an entire sub-genre of creativity. We Are Wizards shows how ardant Harry Potter fans have transformed their love for the hero into sustainable hobbies, some of which are developing into profitable careers. Available on DVD. Compare prices
