MANDA BALA
if you’ve seen the movie “city of god”, then you have an idea about the state of brazil (hint: it’s not pretty). and while that movie was based on true stories, it wasn’t a documentary. “manda bala” is! which makes it so much more–well–real!
without giving too much away, this documentary explores the underground economy of sao palo, which includes kidnappings, bulletproof glass, frog farms and ear reconstruction surgery. it’s a surprisingly well-oiled machine that will definitely make you say, “wtf?” [manda bala on imdb]
A CERTAIN KIND OF DEATH
have you ever wondered what happens to people, when they die? more specifically, have you ever wondered what happens to the bodies of people who die who have no next of kin?
i have to be honest with you, i can’t say that i had, until i stumbled on this movie.
almost every aspect is covered, including removal of the body, selling off of assets, collecting money from bank accounts, and cleaning of their homes. it’s brutally straightforward, eye-opening and worth a watch. [a certain kind of death on imdb]
DEAR ZACHARY
disclaimer: this is the saddest, most unjust story you will ever hear about.
basically, this filmmaker set out to capture footage of a murdered father’s life, to show to his very young son.
it’s equal parts touching and enraging. after watching it, if you aren’t moved to go hug your parents, then you may not have a soul. [dear zachary on imdb]
BIGGER STRONGER FASTER
“bigger stronger faster” focuses on america’s obsession with speed, power, and muscles. it was produced by the people who did “bowling for columbine” and has a feel very much like other hit documentaries, like “supersize me”.
the main subject of this movie is steroid use. it’s something that i didn’t know much about, just because there are so many things considered common knowledge about it. roid rage, tiny nuts, etc. but, in reality, it’s not so black and white. [bigger stronger faster on imdb]
