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Documentaries can open our eyes to new worlds, eccentric personalities, and bizarre events that are often stranger than fiction. While some documentaries gain widespread recognition, others quietly build devoted followings, becoming cult favorites for those who stumble upon them. These hidden gems offer unique perspectives, focusing on offbeat subjects and exploring the fringes of reality. If you’re a cinephile looking to dive into something different, here are the top 10 cult documentaries you’ve probably never seen.
1. “Grey Gardens” (1975)
Grey Gardens, directed by Albert and David Maysles, is a fascinating portrait of Edith “Big Edie” Bouvier Beale and her daughter Edith “Little Edie” Bouvier Beale, relatives of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. Living in a decaying mansion in East Hampton, the Beales exist in eccentric isolation, surrounded by memories of their past glory. The film captures their unique relationship, as well as their unconventional way of life, in a way that’s both poignant and bizarre. Grey Gardens has since become a cult classic, inspiring a devoted fanbase, a Broadway musical, and a 2009 HBO film. Its exploration of faded aristocracy, mental illness, and the passage of time makes it a must-see for documentary lovers.
Why It’s Cult:
The Beales’ eccentricity and the film’s intimate, unflinching portrayal of their lives have made Grey Gardens a beloved classic among fans of documentaries and cult cinema alike.
Where to stream it: Criterion Channel, HBO Max
2. “American Movie” (1999)
Directed by Chris Smith, American Movie is a hilarious yet touching documentary that follows Mark Borchardt, a struggling filmmaker from Wisconsin, as he attempts to complete his low-budget horror film, Coven. The film captures Borchardt’s relentless passion for filmmaking, despite his limited resources and the challenges he faces along the way. His interactions with friends and family, particularly with his oddball best friend Mike Schank, add layers of humor and humanity to the story. American Movie is a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of creative dreams, no matter how quixotic they may seem.
Why It’s Cult:
American Movie resonates with anyone who has ever pursued a passion project against the odds. Its mix of humor, heart, and the endearing quirks of its subjects have made it a cult favorite.
Where to stream it: Amazon Prime Video, Tubi
3. “The Act of Killing” (2012)
The Act of Killing, directed by Joshua Oppenheimer, is a haunting and surreal exploration of the Indonesian genocide of the 1960s. The documentary focuses on former death squad leaders who are encouraged to reenact their real-life atrocities in the style of their favorite Hollywood films. The result is a chilling examination of the nature of evil, memory, and the ways in which people justify horrific actions. The film’s bold approach and unflinching gaze make it one of the most powerful and disturbing documentaries ever made.
Why It’s Cult:
The Act of Killing’s unique narrative technique and its exploration of moral complexity have earned it a place among the most discussed and respected documentaries of recent years.
Where to stream it: Amazon Prime Video, Tubi
4. “Hands on a Hardbody” (1997)
Directed by S.R. Bindler, Hands on a Hardbody is a cult documentary that chronicles an endurance competition in Texas where contestants must keep one hand on a pickup truck for as long as possible, with the last person standing winning the vehicle. The film offers a humorous and sometimes poignant look at the contestants, who come from all walks of life, as they battle exhaustion, boredom, and each other. Hands on a Hardbody captures the quirky, determined spirit of its subjects, making it an engaging and surprisingly deep exploration of human endurance and desire.
Why It’s Cult:
The film’s offbeat premise and the colorful personalities of the contestants have made Hands on a Hardbody a beloved cult classic among documentary enthusiasts.
Where to stream it: Available on DVD (currently limited streaming availability)
5. “The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters” (2007)
The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters, directed by Seth Gordon, is a gripping and often humorous documentary that dives into the world of competitive arcade gaming. The film follows the rivalry between Steve Wiebe, a newcomer aiming to set the world record for Donkey Kong, and Billy Mitchell, the reigning champion and arcade legend. The film highlights the intense dedication of these gamers and the high stakes involved in what might seem like a trivial pursuit. With its memorable characters and dramatic narrative, The King of Kong is both entertaining and surprisingly moving.
Why It’s Cult:
The David vs. Goliath narrative, along with the eccentric personalities involved, has given The King of Kong a special place in the hearts of both gamers and documentary fans.
Where to stream it: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
6. “Marwencol” (2010)
Directed by Jeff Malmberg, Marwencol is a deeply affecting documentary that tells the story of Mark Hogancamp, a man who, after suffering a brutal assault that left him with brain damage and no memory of his previous life, creates a miniature World War II-era village in his backyard as a form of therapy. Hogancamp uses dolls and action figures to populate his fictional town, meticulously photographing the scenes he creates. The film explores themes of trauma, recovery, and the healing power of art, offering a touching and unique look at one man’s way of coping with his past.
Why It’s Cult:
Marwencol’s exploration of art as therapy and Hogancamp’s extraordinary imagination have resonated deeply with viewers, making it a beloved and inspiring cult documentary.
Where to stream it: Amazon Prime Video, Tubi
7. “Tickled” (2016)
Tickled, directed by David Farrier and Dylan Reeve, begins as a quirky investigation into the bizarre world of “competitive endurance tickling” videos but quickly evolves into a dark and unsettling exploration of power, manipulation, and secrecy. What starts as a seemingly lighthearted curiosity turns into a shocking expose of a shadowy figure behind the videos, leading the filmmakers down a rabbit hole of legal threats and intimidation. The film’s unexpected twists and turns make it a gripping watch that is as disturbing as it is fascinating.
Why It’s Cult:
Tickled’s strange and twisting narrative, combined with its shocking revelations, has made it a standout in the documentary genre, attracting a dedicated following.
Where to stream it: HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video
8. “The Devil and Daniel Johnston” (2005)
Directed by Jeff Feuerzeig, The Devil and Daniel Johnston is an intimate and moving portrait of Daniel Johnston, a musician and artist who became a cult figure despite (or perhaps because of) his struggles with mental illness. The film chronicles Johnston’s life, his rise to fame in the indie music scene, and the challenges he faced due to his bipolar disorder. Through interviews, archival footage, and Johnston’s own music and art, the film paints a poignant picture of a brilliant yet troubled artist.
Why It’s Cult:
Daniel Johnston’s raw, unfiltered creativity and the film’s sensitive portrayal of his life have earned it a devoted following among fans of music documentaries and outsider art.
Where to stream it: Amazon Prime Video, Tubi
9. “Vernon, Florida” (1981)
Directed by Errol Morris, Vernon, Florida is a short but memorable documentary that explores the quirky residents of a small town in the Florida Panhandle. Morris initially set out to document “Nub City,” a term used to describe the town’s high rate of insurance fraud involving self-inflicted injuries. However, after facing resistance from the community, he instead focused on the town’s eccentric inhabitants. The result is a charming and oddball portrait of small-town America, filled with memorable characters and moments of dry humor.
Why It’s Cult:
Morris’ ability to find the extraordinary in the ordinary, along with the film’s offbeat characters, has made Vernon, Florida a cult favorite among documentary aficionados.
Where to stream it: Criterion Channel, Amazon Prime Video
10. “Crumb” (1994)
Crumb, directed by Terry Zwigoff, is a fascinating and sometimes unsettling look at the life of underground comic artist Robert Crumb, best known for his controversial and influential work in the 1960s and 70s. The documentary delves into Crumb’s complex psyche, his relationships with his family, and the often disturbing themes in his art. The film also explores the lives of Crumb’s brothers, both of whom struggled with their own demons. Crumb is a compelling study of creativity, dysfunction, and the thin line between genius and madness.
Why It’s Cult:
The candid and often uncomfortable portrayal of Robert Crumb and his family, combined with the exploration of his groundbreaking art, has made Crumb a must-see for fans of counterculture and documentary filmmaking.
Where to stream it: Criterion Channel, Amazon Prime Video
Ending (120 words):
These 10 cult documentaries offer a glimpse into worlds that are as strange as they are fascinating. Whether it’s the eccentric residents of a small town, the dark underbelly of tickling competitions, or the artistic struggles of a troubled genius, these films push the boundaries of traditional documentary storytelling. Each one has developed a dedicated following for its unique subject matter, compelling narratives, and unforgettable characters. If you’re in the mood for something offbeat and thought-provoking, these cult documentaries are essential viewing.
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