The nominees for the 98th annual Academy Awards were announced this morning, with 12 different documentaries among those recognized. Five contenders each were named in the Documentary Feature Film and Documentary Short Film categories, with two more honored in the Music (Original Song) category.

Notable Oscar nominees in 2026 (honoring films released in 2025) include Geeta Gandbhir, who directed two of the nominees: Documentary Feature Film contender The Perfect Neighbor and Documentary Short Film contender The Devil is Busy (the latter co-directed with Christalyn Hampton). Otherwise, Gandbhir is a first-time Oscar nominee, as are most of the filmmakers in her category

The handful of return nominees includes one of The Alabama Solution directors, Andrew Jarecki, who was previously recognized by the Academy 22 years ago with his feature debut, Capturing the Friedmans. He is the only one back this year in the Documentary Feature Film category.

All the Empty Rooms directors Joshua Seftel and Conall Jones were previously nominated in the Documentary Short Film category three years ago with Stranger at the Gate. The legendary Sheila Nevins, who is nominated as the producer of the short Children No More: Were and Are Gone, was a nominee in the category two years ago as one of the nominees of The ABCs of Book Burning.

Of course, Dianne Warren earned her 17th Oscar nomination, this time for an original song written for the documentary about her, Dianne Warren: Relentless. She isn’t likely to win this time either, but she did receive an Honorary Oscar a few years ago.

While there were some surprise omissions in the Documentary Feature category, including our favorite film of the year, 2000 Meters to Andriivka, and the lengthy My Undesirable Friends: Part 1 – Last Air in Moscow, it’s great to see our number three doc of last year, Mr. Nobody Against Putin, which was just finally released yesterday.

In all, only three of the five Documentary Feature Film nominees (and documentary nominees in total) previously appeared on our list of the best documentaries of 2025. Only two of the features were previously nominated at the 2025 Critics Choice Documentary Awards (which I produce). And only two of the shorts matched up with that event’s Best Short Documentary nominees.

The Perfect Neighbor is only the third winner of the Critics Choice Award for Best Documentary Feature since the start of the CCDAs to be nominated for an Oscar. Is the curse broken? We’ll have to see if the overlap continues next year. And we’ll have to see if it wins the Oscar too.

It’s not included below (I haven’t seen it yet, so I’m unsure if I’d consider it suited for this site), but I also want to acknowledge the Cinema Eye-winning hybrid film The Voice of Hind Rajab, which was nominated for Best International Feature Film. Its director, Kaouther Ben Hania, and producer, Nadim Cheikhrouha, were previously nominated in the Documentary Feature Film category in 2023 with Four Daughters.

Here are this year’s documentary Oscar nominees (and where to watch them):

Documentary Feature Film

The Alabama Solution

Nominees: Andrew Jarecki and Charlotte Kaufman
Available to stream on HBO Max

Come See Me In The Good Light

Nominees: Ryan White, Jessica Hargrave, Tig Notaro, and Stef Willen
Available to stream on Apple TV

Cutting Through Rocks

Nominees: Sara Khaki and Mohammadreza Eyni
Currently unavailable to watch

Mr. Nobody Against Putin

Nominees: to be determined
Available to stream on Kino Film Collection, and now playing in theaters

The Perfect Neighbor

Nominees: Geeta Gandbhir, Alisa Payne, Nikon Kwantu, and Sam Bisbee
Available to stream on Netflix

Documentary Short Film

All The Empty Rooms

Nominees: Joshua Seftel and Conall Jones
Available to stream on Netflix

Armed Only With A Camera: The Life And Death Of Brent Renaud

Nominees: Craig Renaud and Juan Arredondo
Available to stream on HBO Max

Children No More: Were And Are Gone

Nominees: Hilla Medalia and Sheila Nevins
Currently unavailable to watch

The Devil Is Busy

Nominees: Christalyn Hampton and Geeta Gandbhir
Available to stream on HBO Max

Perfectly A Strangeness

Nominee: Alison McAlpine
Currently unavailable to watch

Share Nonfics

Music (Original Song)

“Dear Me” – Diane Warren: Relentless

Music and Lyric by Diane Warren
Available to stream on Kanopy
Listen to the song via Kesha’s YouTube channel here:

“Sweet Dreams Of Joy” – Viva Verdi!

Music and Lyric by Nicholas Pike
Listen to the song via Nicholas Pike’s YouTube channel here:

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I had the pleasure of spending a day and a half filming and testing FUJIFILM’s first dedicated cinema camera on a UK racing track with an early release version of the firmware. The GFX ETERNA 55 delivers distinctive large-format imagery through its 102MP 43.6 x 32.7mm sensor with dual native ISO 800/3200, variable electronic ND filter, and 4K 4:3 open-gate recording up to 48fps. But at $16,500 for the camera body and supplied accessories, will it appeal to many customers and become successful? This camera does very well what it is intended to do, and we have already seen some beautiful images coming out of it when deployed in large-scale productions. However, I wanted to see how easy it is (or is not) to operate in a one-man-band situation and to find its strengths alongside its weaknesses, especially in such a competitive camera market. Let’s dive into it!

This review documents real-world shooting conditions rather than controlled lab testing. FUJIFILM Europe kindly provided me with the camera on location in the UK, allowing me to evaluate the GFX ETERNA 55’s practical viability for documentary and one-man-band operations. The test scenario involved capturing fast-moving drift racing alongside the daily life routine of Malcolm Williams (Steadicam operator, filmmaker, model, consultant to some leading companies in our industry) and Amber Jones (Formula One presenter). This dedicated and passionate power couple is building their own drift car, and I was fortunate enough to follow them for a day and hear their personal story.

Upon my arrival, I encountered typical UK winter conditions, which, of course, were a bit unfortunate. “Monochromatic shots” are not my favorite, but as the saying goes, “it is what it is”.

My preferred working mode: Image format: GF and 4K 4:3. Credit: CineD

Credit: CineD

Knowing what I was after and bearing in mind the ongoing conversation about the camera’s possible rolling shutter performance, I deliberately pushed it into situations where rolling shutter might be immediately noticeable. How did it perform? Just keep reading. I also wanted to see whether I would miss internal RAW recording and, just as importantly, film with anamorphic lenses to make full use of the 4K, 4:3 open-gate recording. And in this regard, I chose to work with the very affordable SIRUI IronStar T1.9, 1.5x, 35, and 60mm anamorphic lenses – priced between $959 to $999 each. But more on that, later.

Anamorphic (35mm) mode was helpful for me while filming. Credit: DineD

Recording Formats and Resolutions Table and Camera settings for RAW output (ATOMOS RAW, Blackmagic RAW). Highlighted the formats I worked with. Credit: FUJIFILM

Working in 4:3 Open Gate mode

The GFX ETERNA 55 centers on a 102-megapixel GFX CMOS II HS Bayer sensor measuring 43.6 x 32.7mm, marketed as a 55mm format in reference to its image diagonal of the full Open Gate image format. FUJIFILM positions it as one of the tallest commercially available cinema sensors. While the camera can record up to 8K resolution, FUJIFILM recommends filming in 4K Open Gate (3840 x 2880) for the best possible image quality. The native 4:3 aspect ratio provides substantial vertical information for Open Gate recording, particularly useful when working with anamorphic lenses, as it allows the full sensor height to be utilized without cropping. FUJIFILM also offers a helpful demonstration of how desqueezing images appear with different squeeze ratios and desired aspect ratios. Check out this link and look for “Anamorphic Squeeze”.

1.5x anamorphic lens, 4:3 Open Gate recording. Credit: FUJIFILM

That said, the Open Gate recording delivers fantastic post-production flexibility. You can extract multiple aspect ratios from a single master recording, which is brilliant. The generous vertical height gives you plenty of room for reframing into social media vertical formats, standard theatrical 2.39:1 presentations, and everything in between without the usual resolution penalties that come from cropped sensors. It also opens the door to creative storytelling, such as filming in a 4:3 aspect ratio and anamorphic within the same project, allowing different stories to emerge within the main narrative.

In the current early firmware version, desqueezing the image for previewing purposes is only possible in Anamorphic (35mm) mode. Credit: CineD

I decided to shoot exclusively in 4:3 Open Gate mode, which provides maximum flexibility for reframing in post while also serving as the perfect canvas for anamorphic work. As mentioned earlier, I paired the camera with two SIRUI IronStar 1.5x squeeze anamorphic lenses – 35mm and 60mm. While these lenses are marketed as full-frame lenses, they cover the entire image circle of the GFX ETERNA 55. To be precise, the 60mm and 45mm lenses are completely “safe” to use, but the 35mm will show a bit of vignetting (as expected). There are two ways to address this vignetting: The first, and preferred method, is to shoot with a 2:39:1 aspect ratio instead of 2:1 and desqueeze the entire sensor image. This crops about 17% from the top and bottom, eliminating most while also allowing room to reframe the anamorphic image if needed. The second option (not much to my liking) is to crop into the image until the vignetting disappears.

After desqueezing, the aspect ratio is 2:1. Credit: FUJIFILM

Desqueezing to a 2:39.1 aspect ratio for greater post-production flexibility. Credit: FUJIFILM

Now, here’s where things got a bit tricky. The camera’s dedicated GF Open Gate mode works, but one phenomenon to keep in mind is that, with the current early firmware, the camera can NOT output a de-squeezed image to the supplied 5-inch LCD screen or EVF. For this reason, I relied on my Kinefinity Eagle EVF, connected via HDMI, to handle de-squeezing the image.

4:3 Open Gate recording. Credit: CineD

Anamorphic recording. Cropping into the sensor for an additional simulated focal length. Credit: CineD

The camera also offers a second anamorphic shooting option. While this mode doesn’t record the full sensor area, it allowed me to “zoom in” when I felt that a tighter focal length was needed. Mind you that 25p is currently not supported in this mode, which meant I was forced to shoot the entire production at 24fps to maintain consistency (not ideal for a country using a 25p/PAL broadcast system).

Frame rate limitations in practice

The GFX ETERNA 55’s frame rate ceiling highlights a significant limitation for modern cinema camera expectations. High-frame-rate capture tops out at 120fps, but only in Full HD resolution. In my opinion, for a camera priced at $16,500 and aimed at professional cinematography workflows, the inability to record 4K at 120fps represents a notable omission. This limitation became immediately apparent during the racing track shoot, where capturing drift car action in slow motion would have greatly enhanced the visual storytelling. So in the end, I had to choose between maintaining 4K resolution or accessing higher frame rates, ultimately prioritizing resolution over slow-motion capabilities. While the camera can handle 60fps in 4K Open Gate mode, this is still insufficient for truly dramatic slow-motion shots.

The restriction reflects the challenges of reading out data from such a large sensor at high speeds. However, competing cameras in similar price brackets often offer 4K high-frame-rate options, making this a comparative disadvantage rather than an absolute technical limitation across the industry.

From the timeline: car driving at high speed, and the background still looks good! Credit: CineD

Rolling shutter performance

One primary objective of this hands-on evaluation was to assess rolling shutter performance under real-world motion scenarios. Fast-panning shots following drift cars provided ideal conditions to reveal any sensor readout limitations, such as image skew or wobble.

In my subjective observation, the shoot showed no immediately concerning rolling shutter artifacts to the naked eye (see the frame grab above taken from the timeline). Even during aggressive pans to track moving vehicles, the footage maintained acceptable geometric stability. FUJIFILM has optimized the readout speeds, positioning the camera competitively against dedicated cinema bodies rather than photo-hybrid sensors, which often exhibit more pronounced rolling shutter.

This practical performance counters concerns raised during some discussions we had with FUJIFILM’s engineers regarding potential rolling shutter issues inherited from the GFX100 II stills camera foundation. While our upcoming lab testing with precise measurements will provide definitive quantification, the hands-on experience suggests the GFX ETERNA 55 handles motion capture adequately for both documentary and narrative work.

One of the two multifunction dials for controlling the electronic ND filter. Credit: CineD

Dual native ISO and exposure control

The GFX ETERNA 55 features dual native ISO at 800 and 3200, providing clean image capture across a range of lighting conditions without excessive noise penalties. Throughout my shoot, keeping exposure within these base ISO values was straightforward, with the camera delivering its cleanest output when adhering to these sensitivity settings.

The integrated variable electronic ND filter ranges from ND 0.6 to ND 2.1, providing a practical range of two to seven stops in visually near-stepless 0.015 increments. The dual control implementation allows operators to adjust ND values from two different multifunction dials, accommodate various shooting positions, and grip configurations.

This electronic ND system eliminates the need for external filters, which proved very practical when working with the SIRUI IronStar lenses. With a 92mm front diameter, these lenses would otherwise require SIRUI’s own variable ND filter or matte box (which I don’t usually use).

Somehow confusing film simulation menu. Credit: CineD

Credit: CineD

Film simulations and the menu challenge

FUJIFILM’s renowned film simulations are integrated throughout the GFX ETERNA 55, offering 20 built-in looks inspired by the company’s photographic film stocks. However, the early version of firmware revealed what I found to be a somewhat confusing menu structure that requires careful attention to avoid unintended consequences.

Navigating film simulations involves three separate menu locations: one to enable or disable flat picture profile recording, another to determine whether the simulation is applied to the recorded image or only for monitoring, and a third to select the specific simulation. This fragmented setup raises genuine concern about accidentally embedding a film simulation into the actual footage rather than limiting it to monitoring.

Being on the safe side and keeping all film simulations “clean”. Credit: CineD

Once configured correctly, the workflow proved reliable; however, the initial setup required careful verification to ensure flat log recording to media while keeping a film simulation active on the external EVF for easier focusing and composition assessment.

FUJIFILM acknowledges this is early-stage release firmware, and menu refinements are expected before widespread customer delivery. The company has shown responsiveness to user feedback throughout the camera’s development cycle, suggesting that final shipping units may address these navigation concerns.

Which is which? Headphone jack next to the 3.5mm mic input. Credit: CineD

Audio connectivity limitations

Professional cinema cameras typically offer limited audio input options, and the GFX ETERNA 55 follows this trend, arriving without built-in XLR connectivity. The camera provides a 3.5mm jack for both microphone input and headphone monitoring only.

TASCAM CA-XLR2d-F XLR Microphone Adapter Kit. Credit: Tascam

For larger productions with dedicated sound departments, this omission carries less weight, as audio is typically recorded on separate systems. However, for documentary filmmakers and one-man-band operators who rely on direct camera audio recording, the lack of XLR inputs represents a workflow compromize. FUJIFILM supports the TASCAM CA-XLR2d-F XLR Microphone Adapter Kit, which mounts to the camera’s hot shoe and provides professional audio connectivity as an optional accessory rather than an integrated feature. Speaking of which, MID49 offers a solution for mounting the TASCAM Microphone Adapter Kit to the BACK of the supplied handle, making it a practical option for those who want to work with two-channel balanced audio. More information can be found here.

An additional cold shoe at the back of the handle would have been appreciated! Credit: CineD

The supplied top handle includes a front hot shoe for mounting accessories. However, this placement creates cable-routing challenges when attempting to connect wireless audio receivers to the rear-mounted 3.5mm input. The cables supplied with typical wireless systems are often too short to reach comfortably from front-mounted receivers to the rear inputs, requiring either longer cables or alternative mounting solutions.

Ergonomics and physical design

The GFX ETERNA 55’s magnesium alloy body balances durability with manageable weight, though it is larger than typical hybrid mirrorless cameras. Multiple 3/8-16 and 1/4-20 threaded mounting points on both the camera body and included handle provide extensive rigging flexibility without requiring external cage systems for basic accessory attachment.

One standout design feature is the dual 3-inch LCD menu screens positioned on both sides of the camera body. Both screens display identical information, including recording status, exposure parameters, audio levels, and format settings. This mirrored setup allows both the primary operator and an assistant to monitor critical camera data simultaneously, regardless of shooting position, supporting collaborative workflows without crowding around a single display.

The “big-six button layout” is present on both camera sides. Credit: CineD

GFX ETERNA 55, right-hand side. Credit: CineD

The camera also features six programmable shortcut buttons accessible from either side, providing quick access to frequently adjusted parameters. This “big-six” button layout (sorry, Sony, I had to use this term here) speeds up on-set adjustments without diving into menus.

The included 5-inch touchscreen LCD monitor on a flexible arm offers 2,000 nits of maximum brightness with 1920×1080 resolution across 6.22 million dots. This articulating display provides adequate daylight visibility and touch-based menu navigation. FUJIFILM has already confirmed that they are developing a dedicated EVF for the camera, and we have seen a prototype in circulation.

The FUJIFILM GFX ETERNA 55 Electronic Viewfinder prototype. Credit: CineD

Autofocus capability

The GFX ETERNA 55 is among the few large-format cinema cameras offering autofocus functionality. When paired with compatible FUJIFILM GF lenses, it delivers intelligent hybrid autofocus, combining contrast detection and phase detection with subject tracking capabilities, including face, eye, animal, vehicle, and aircraft recognition.

Due to my choice of lenses (SIRUI IronStar anamorphic), I was not able to test the autofocus performance firsthand. However, I can genuinely recommend taking a close look at the new FUJIFILM GF 32-90mm T3.5 lens. This lens features power zoom, autofocus, and built-in optical image stabilization. In my opinion, at $6,000, it’s the best run-and-gun GF lens currently available.

FUJINON 32-90mm lens on the GFX ETERNA 55 cinema camera. Image credit: CineD

To summarize, unlike the GFX100 II, the GFX ETERNA 55 body lacks internal sensor stabilization. However, when using compatible GF lenses with built-in stabilization, such as the FUJINON GF 32-90mm, the lens communicates directly with the camera body to provide optimized stabilization tailored to the specific focal length and shooting conditions.

Current recording formats: Credit: CineD

No internal RAW recording

Perhaps the most significant workflow limitation involves the absence of internal RAW recording. None of FUJIFILM’s cameras, including the GFX100 II hybrid or the GFX ETERNA 55, offer internal RAW video capture. For professional cinematographers working on high-end productions with robust post-production support, this omission may carry less weight, as dedicated color and editorial teams can typically handle compressed formats efficiently. However, I strongly advocate for internal RAW recording, especially for independent filmmakers working without extensive crew support. RAW recording serves as a critical “safety net”, allowing adjustments to white balance, exposure, and color decisions in post-production. This flexibility provides insurance against challenging lighting conditions or fast-paced shooting scenarios where precise in-camera settings are difficult to achieve.

Possible external RAW recording with Blackmagic or Atomos external recorders. Credit: CineD

The GFX ETERNA 55 addresses this limitation through external RAW output via SDI/HDMI to compatible recorders, like Atomos devices, which adds cost and complexity to the camera setup. This workflow requires additional investment in external recorders, mounting solutions, cables, and media, while also increasing the overall system weight and power consumption. Recent firmware updates have enabled RAW recording to Atomos Ninja TX and Ninja TX GO devices at up to 48fps in 4:3 Open Gate over HDMI and up to 29.97fps over SDI.

SIRUI IronStar 35mm and 60mm anamorphic lenses. Credit: CineD

Lens considerations and workflow – SIRUI IronStar

The SIRUI IronStar T1.9 Anamorphic 1.5x lenses performed exceptionally well on set, though their minimum focus distance (35/45mm-0.65m, 60mm-0.78m) occasionally limited framing options when working close to subjects. The lenses delivered subtle, “non-exaggerated” anamorphic characteristics, meaning, no over-the-top flares or image distortion (I used the “Neutral flar option”). It is worth mentioning that SIRUI plans to complete the IronStar set with three additional focal lengths: 75mm, 100mm, and 135mm. One extremely noticeable characteristic is the anamorphic pincushion distortion that those lenses have, particularly with the 35mm lens. In general, when shootingin Open ate mode, I highly recommend using 40mm anamorphic lenses or longer to minimize the distortion and reduce the risk of strong vignetting.

While FUJIFILM provides both a native G-mount and an included ARRI PL-mount adapter in the camera package, these were not available to me, so I brought our own SIRUI GF-to-PL adapter. From previous experience, I already knew that earlier SIRUI IronStar lenses are very particular about adapters, so I made sure to have their official adapter with me. For the latest batch of these lenses, SIRUI has updated the lens mount for better compatibility with many adapters.

One thing to note is that the SIRUI adapter has a detachable support fit. Due to the front camera placement of the camera’s multifunction dial, this support has to be removed; otherwise, the lens adaptercannot be securely locked to the camera body itself.

The internal FUJIFILM NP-W235 battery and recording cards compartment. Credit: CineD

Power and battery management

The GFX ETERNA 55 features a well-designed power system with a rear-mounted V-mount battery plate that accepts third-party adapters for Gold mount configurations.

Powering back up options are coming in two flavours. Credit: CineD

One clever implementation is the internal NP-W235 battery slot, which provides power during V-mount battery changes. When swapping batteries, the camera enters a low-power state, stopping recording until the external power source is replaced. This hot-swap capability is especially essential for documentary work. The camera can run on the internal NP-W235 battery alone for about 22 minutes, or it can simply serve as a backup power source while changing the V-mount battery.

To elaborate a bit more, when powering the camera solely from an NP-W235, it enters W235 mode, where certain outputs and functions are disabled, but recording can continue. Once any DC power source is supplied (either an onboard battery or via the DC input), the camera exits W235 mode and restores full functionality. In this way, the NP-W235 acts as a true battery backup, preventing the camera from fully shutting down during swaps.

All in all, the camera’s lower power consumption is incredible. I was able to finish a very long working day with two K&F CONCEPT 99Wh batteries. A note on this specific battery model: I really like traveling as it is airline-friendly, has multiple outputs, and performs reliably (see our review here).

International travel and customs considerations

An unexpected practical consideration emerged when traveling internationally with equipment of this value. Transporting a $16,500 camera across borders, particularly between EU and non-EU territories like the UK, can introduce customs complications. Equipment at this price point may require a carnet, essentially a “passport” for professional gear that documents its origin and prevents customs authorities from charging duty fees upon return.

For this exact reason, I asked FUJIFILM to kindly deliver the camera within the UK rather than risk customs issues by shipping it from Austria. This avoided potential delays or unexpected fees but highlights a real-world consideration for owner-operators working internationally. Smaller, less expensive cameras typically avoid these bureaucratic requirements, making them more practical for frequent border crossings and international production work.

The GFX ETERNA 55 is capable of filming in various formats. Credit: FUJIFILM

The challenging market positioning

The GFX ETERNA 55 faces a challenging competitive landscape at its $16,500 price point. In my opinion, three factors don’t fully align: the camera’s price, its specifications, and its intended target market. For independent filmmakers accustomed to highly capable full-frame cameras with internal RAW recording available at significantly lower price points, the GFX ETERNA 55 requires justification beyond sensor size alone.

While the camera is positioned at the higher end of the market based on pricing, it lacks certain features that professional cinematographers might expect at this tier. The absence of internal RAW and the limitations of 120fps only in Full HD create specification gaps that competing systems address. For comparison, the RED V-RAPTOR XE 8K VV is priced similarly but offers internal RAW and comprehensive high-frame-rate options, while the Blackmagic URSA Cine 12K LF provides internal BRAW recording at much less money.

The GFX ETERNA 55 ultimately appeals to a specific type of cinematographer: professionals who prioritize FUJIFILM’s color science, value the unique spatial rendering of a tall, large-format sensor for anamorphic work, and can accommodate workflow limitations with external recorders and accessory investments. Narrative cinematographers shooting dialogue-driven content, where extreme slow motion and internal RAW prove less critical, may find the camera’s image quality compelling enough to justify its use.

Commercial and advertising cinematographers working with controlled lighting setups and professional crews can leverage the sensor’s shallow depth of field and film simulation aesthetics to deliver distinctive looks for clients.

For rental houses, the key consideration is setting realistic daily or weekly rates that justify the camera’s acquisition cost while remaining competitive with established ARRI, RED, and Sony cinema camera ecosystems. Rental market viability will likely remain uncertain until the camera builds a track record and awareness among production coordinators and producers responsible for equipment decisions.

Owner-operators facean even tougher choice. The $16,500 investment requires confidence that the camera’s unique attributes translate into a tangible competitive advantage, whether through aesthetic differentiation, client preference for the FUJIFILM look, or specific project requirements that favor large-format capture. For documentary filmmakers and small production companies, alternative cameras often offer compelling feature sets at lower entry prices.

At the race track with the FUJIFILM GFX ETERNA 55. Credit: Malcolm Williams.

Conclusion

The question becomes whether FUJIFILM’s color science and the distinctive 4:3 large sensor format justify the premium over alternative options. For those prioritizing maximum technical specifications per dollar, the GFX ETERNA 55 occupies a challenging middle ground.

What could FUJIFILM do differently?

The cinematography community has expressed interest in alternative product approaches. A smaller, more affordable version of this camera in the $8,000-$10,000 price range would compete directly with full-frame hybrid cameras while retaining the large-format sensor advantage. Alternatively, updating the existing GFX100 II hybrid camera with enhanced video firmware could provide a more accessible entry point into FUJIFILM’s large-format ecosystem, accepting the hybrid form factor in exchange for a lower price.

Many cinematographers hoped FUJIFILM might introduce a Super35 cinema camera similar in form and features to Canon’s EOS C50, Sony’s FX3, or Nikon’s ZR. This approach could leverage FUJIFILM’s color science and build quality while targeting a different market segment entirely, potentially offering internal RAW and comprehensive professional features at a more accessible price point.

On the positive side, FUJIFILM has gained substantial experience through developing the GFX ETERNA 55, from building a cinema-specific menu system to implementing professional connectivity and workflow features. This knowledge positions the company to iterate on future products, potentially addressing market segments or feature requirements that the first-generation GFX ETERNA 55 leaves unaddressed.

Acknowledgments: Many thanks to Amber Jones and Malcolm Williams for their hospitality. Drift Limites UK, and The Peasants’ Revolt, first Brentwood’s Micropub. Color: Phantom LUTs. Get 15% off when using the code CINED15. I also encourage you to download the camera Technical Guide – white paper from here, and read more about the SIRUI IronStar lenses here.

What do you think about the new FUJIFILM GFX ETERNA 55 camera? Will you be considering buying it? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section below.

With new interviews from the late Rob Reiner and David Lynch, the tender documentary pays loving homage to a comedy legend who does more than make us laugh.

Sundance: Mohammed Ali Naqvi’s threadbare doc is too afraid of losing your attention to make the most of the moments when it has them.

As we round out the end of the first month of 2026, we have finally learned what the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences thinks are the best documentaries of last year (see our Picks of the Week below). It’s perfect timing since we’re now headed into the first weekend of the Sundance Film Festival and able to focus on what will be some of this year’s best documentaries (see our 2026 preview).

Now, without further ado, below are this week’s documentary highlights, followed by daily listings for all known releases and broadcasts, along with a brief look at what’s coming soon for doc fans. Please consider becoming a paid subscriber to receive more in-depth highlights and reviews in the future, plus full access to special posts like our best of and most anticipated lists, and to give me more time to watch more (if not everything) available. If you have a doc in need of coverage or a mention, you can reach me at christopherbartoncampbell (at) gmail.

Nonfics Picks Of The Week: 2026 Oscar Nominees

The 2026 Oscar nominations were announced last week, including 12 documentaries and one hybrid docudrama among the contenders. The nominees for Best Documentary Feature Film include The Alabama Solution (streaming on HBO Max), Come See Me in the Good Light (Apple TV), Cutting through Rocks (currently unavailable), Mr. Nobody Against Putin (Kino Film Collection), and The Perfect Neighbor (Netflix).

Nominees for Best Short Film include All the Empty Rooms (Netflix), Armed Only with a Camera: The Life and Death of Brent Renaud (HBO Max), Children No More: Were and Are Gone (currently unavailable), The Devil is Busy (HBO Max), and Perfectly a Strangeness (currently unavailable). Two documentaries are up for Best Original Song: Diane Warren: Relentless (Kanopy), with “Dear Me”; and Viva Verdi! (currently unavailable), with “Sweet Dreams of Joy.” The hybrid film is The Voice of Hind Rajab (now in theaters), which is nominated for Best International Feature Film.

Winners will be revealed at the Academy Awards on March 15, 2026.

Other Documentary Highlights

Bob Dylan in Don’t Look Back

Don’t Look Back (1967)

It’s been a little over a year since the last time I highlighted D.A. Pennebaker’s Don’t Look Back, as a supplement to the Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown. Since then, I’ve gone more in-depth on the film, which follows Dylan during his 1965 UK tour and is considered among the best documentaries of all time. Here’s an excerpt from our retrospective review of Don’t Look Back from last year:

Dylan’s pompous performative nature in Don’t Look Back makes him one of the most memorable documentary characters ever, up there with anything scripted. According to Andrew Sarris, referring to another journalist’s claim, Pennebaker saw the film as (akin to?) a fictional work starring Bob Dylan as Bob Dylan. When critics attack modern celebrity-focused documentaries for being too contrived for the sake of PR, they ignore what was evident as far back as this film: the most famous subjects typically put on the first line of the facade anyway. Still, Pennebaker has a knack for occasionally capturing his subject in veracious solemnity, as in scenes when Dylan is mostly alone and typing out his wares, or in unpredictable moments such as when a girl is hanging onto his car. It’s not just when he’s unaware. Dylan appears most authentic when performing songs with and for friends off stage, his smiles while playing for a small entourage of trusted associates looking the most casual, candid, and uncalculated of anything here, even though it’s in the clear eye of the camera lens.

Don’t Look Back airs on TCM on Saturday, January 24, as a “Musical Matinee.”

Holocaust Documentaries

Tuesday, January 27, is International Holocaust Remembrance Day, with old and new documentaries programmed for the occasion. As usual, TCM is showing relevant films, both dramatic and documentary, with the latter including Claude Lanzmann’s Shoah: Four Sisters and the 2021 film Filmmakers for the Prosecution. Joining those two, which were also programmed last year on the same date, is Marcel Ophuls’s The Sorrow and the Pity, about France’s Vichy government during World War II. As for new films, PBS will air Elie Wiesel: Soul on Fire, about the titular Holocaust survivor and author, via the series American Masters. HBO Max will premiere 33 Photos from the Ghetto, a history of the 1943 Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, with a focus on the only known photographs taken from inside the Ghetto by one of its Jewish residents.

Jonathan Skurnik Documentaries

The streaming service OVID continues to add documentaries from New Day Films to its library, and this week’s crop spotlights the work of Jonathan Skurnik. He is one of New Day’s many co-op filmmaker-owners and served as Chair of the collective in the late 2010s. Three of his five films debuting on OVID this week are shorts from his Youth and Gender Media Project, which spotlights stories of trans and gender nonconforming children. They are Becoming Joanna, I’m Just Anneke, and The Family Journey: Raising Gender Nonconforming Children. The other two are his earlier, medium-length documentaries Spit It Out, about a stutterer, and A Day’s Work, A Day’s Pay, about three people on welfare in New York City in the Work Experience Program.

These five films begin non-exclusively streaming on OVID on Tuesday, January 27.

Paradise Lost: The Child Murders At Robin Hood Hills (1996)

The true-crime classic Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills turns 30 years old this week, having premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 27, 1996. The feature went on to win a Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Informational Programming, spawned two sequels and a dramatic remake, gave us one of the most memorable documentary characters of all time, and helped to free its three wrongfully convicted subjects from life imprisonment sentences. Here is an excerpt from our Doc Option column recommending the trilogy:

When filmmakers Joe Berlinger and Bruce Sinofsky arrived in West Memphis, Arkansas, in 1994 to cover the murder trials of three teenagers, they had no idea what they were in for. The unforgettable Damien Echols, Jessie Misskelley Jr., and Jason Baldwin stood accused of murdering three young boys the prior summer. Police believed the crime was Satanic in nature and that the murders were part of an arcane ritual.

It quickly became apparent to Berlinger and Sinofsky that all the evidence against the WM3 was circumstantial, that the idea that there was anything ritualistic about the killings was a part of the Satanic Panic of the ’80s and ’90s, and that these young men had been singled out because they were weird enough to attract suspicion. The movie they ended up making, Paradises Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills, is a verite masterpiece, a modern version of The Crucible in which mass paranoia threatens the innocent and allows the wicked to go unpunished.

Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills is streaming on HBO Max.

Sundance Documentaries

The 2026 Sundance Film Festival has begun its final year in Park City, but you don’t have to travel to Utah to see some of the documentaries screening at the event. Many of the programmed films will be available to watch online starting Thursday, January 29, including a bunch of our most anticipated documentaries of 2026, such as Nuisance Bear, Who Killed Alex Odeh?, American Doctor, Time and Water, and Ghost in the Machine. You can also buy tickets for this year’s award winners, whatever they will be.

In the meantime, or as an alternative way of celebrating the event this week, we have a list of the best Sundance documentaries of all time, including Joe Berlinger and Bruce Sinofsky’s Brother’s Keeper (streaming on Kanopy and AMC+), Werner Herzog’s Grizzly Man (Kanopy, Prime Video, The Criterion Channel, and Tubi), Les Blank’s In Heaven There Is No Beer? (The Criterion Channel), James Marsh’s Man on Wire (Kanopy, Prime Video, and Tubi), Jennie Livingston’s Paris is Burning (HBO Max and The Criterion Channel), Ross McElwee’s Sherman’s March (OVID and Kanopy), and Martin Bell’s Streetwise (The Criterion Channel). Also, Barbara Kopple’s hard-to-find masterpiece American Dream, which is screening at Sundance this year for its 35th anniversary.

When We Were Kings (1996)

Another documentary celebrating its 30th anniversary this week is Leon Gast’s When We Were Kings, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 24, 1996. After its theatrical release later in the year, the film went on to win the Oscar for Best Documentary Feature and the Critics Choice Award for Best Documentary. Originally intended to be a concert film covering a three-day music festival in Zaire in 1974, the documentary ended up being more focused on the Muhammad Ali and George Foreman boxing match known as “The Rumble in the Jungle,” held in conjunction with the show. Here’s more info, excerpted from our review of When We Were Kings:

The fight was now the main event. And Ali was the main concentration. Whether he’s the main character is another story. It’s certainly about him, but I might argue that Norman Mailer and George Plimpton are the stars of When We Were Kings as much as Ali is. The two writers are among the five talking heads who were interviewed for the film in the ’90s (Spike Lee is another), and at one point, they provide a rat-a-tat-tat telling and analysis of the bout’s climax that is even more captivating than the boxer’s poetic showboating that makes up much of the earlier-shot material. Meanwhile, the concert acts, including James Brown, B.B. King, and The Spinners, are almost relegated to tertiary status.

When We Were Kings is streaming on HBO Max, The Criterion Channel, The Roku Channel, and Shout! TV.

Subscribe now

Documentary Release Calendar 1/23/26 – 1/29/26

Elie Wiesel and Elisha Wiesel in Elie Wiesel: Soul on Fire

Friday, January 23, 2026

The Big Johnson (2025) – A documentary feature about LGBTQI pioneer Dean Johnson. (In Theaters)

The BMF Documentary: Blowing Money Fast Season 2, Episode 2 – “With the Streets Comes the Violence” – The latest installment of a docuseries about the Black Mafia Family. (Starz)

George Hall and His Orchestra (1937) – A short music film featuring performances by the titular group. (TCM)

Molly-Mae: Behind It All Season 2, Episode 5 – The latest installment of a nonfiction series about British influencer Molly-Mae Hague. (Prime Video)

Monsterquest Season 5, Episode 4: “Hunted” – The latest episode of a docuseries about strange creatures spotted around the world. (History)

Standout: The Ben Kjar Story (2025) – A biographical documentary about the titular wrestler and professional speaker who has Crouzon syndrome. (In Theaters)

Saturday, January 24, 2026

2DIE4 (2026) – A nonfiction feature that follows Formula 1 driver Felipe Nasr in his attempt to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans race. (IMAX Theaters)

Accident, Suicide, or Murder Season 6, Episode 10: “Mother’s Trigger” – The latest episode of this true-crime series involves a 10-year-old boy shooting his dad. (Oxygen)

Don’t Look Back (1967) – A documentary by D.A. Pennebaker following Bob Dylan’s 1965 tour in England. Read our review of Don’t Look Back. *NONFICS PICK* (TCM)

Iyanla: The Inside Fix Season 1, Episode 2: “Bitterness, Blame, and False Realities” – A nonfiction series that revisits Iyanla Vanzant’s show Fix My Life. (OWN)

Kingdom Season 1, Episode 1: “Four Crowns, One Kingdom” – The first installment of a nature series narrated by Sir David Attenborough following rival families of leopards, hyenas, wild dogs, and lions. (AMC+ and BBC America)

Maxxed Out Season 1, Episode 3: “Faith & Finances” – The latest episode of a docuseries focused on people currently having financial troubles. (OWN)

MGM Parade Show #2 (1955) – The second installment of a documentary series devoted to promoting MGM’s films. This film features Judy Garland and Gene Kelly. (TCM)

Sunday, January 25, 2026

Did’ja Know (1950) – A short film produced by Pete Smith that shares answers to various questions. (TCM)

The Hillside Strangler Episode 2: “The Many Faces of Ken Bianchi” – The latest installment of a true-crime docuseries following two serial killers who terrorized Los Angeles in the 1970s. (MGM+)

Killer Relationship with Faith Jenkins Season 4, Episode 12: “Shattered Vows” – The latest installment of a true-crime docuseries about romances gone tragically wrong. (Oxygen)

Snapped: Women Who Kill Episode 4: “Donna Horwitz” – The latest installment of a true-crime docuseries about mysterious and violent cases. This episode is technically part of Snapped Season 36. (Oxygen)

Where is Jane Doe? (1956) – A short true-crime documentary following a New York City detective investigating a missing persons case. (TCM)

Monday, January 26, 2026

120 Hours Behind Bars Season 1, Episode 2: “Leake County Jail” – The latest installment of a nonfiction series that looks at America’s toughest jails. (Discovery)

Big Blue Goose (1956) – A short documentary in the Sportscope series about hunting a specific species of goose. (TCM)

Contraband: Seized at the Border Season 8, Episode 2: ‘“Grab Bag” – The latest episode of a nonfiction series focused on smuggling cases handled by Customs and Border Protection officers. (Discovery)

The Curious Case of… Season 2, Episode 3: “The Skincare Queen and the Hitman – Part 1” – The latest installment of a true-crime docuseries involving mind-bending and jaw-dropping cases. This episode is about a celebrity facialist caught in a web of lies. (Investigation Discovery)

Fatal Attraction: I’d Kill to Be You Season 1, Episode 1: “Latasha Brown: Longing for a Baby” – A true-crime series about cases involving jealousy. (TV One)

History’s Deadliest with Ving Rhames Season 1 – A docuseries about history’s most devastating killers, weapons, battles, and disasters. (History)

Mouth of the Wolf: Amanda Knox Returns to Italy (2026) – A documentary following Amanda Knox as she confronts the prosecutor who sent her to jail for a crime she didn’t commit. (Hulu)

Vivien’s Wild Ride (2025) – A documentary memoir directed by Hollywood film editor Vivien Hillgrove about her declining eyesight. Presented as an episode of Independent Lens. (PBS)

Tuesday, January 27, 2026

33 Photos from the Ghetto (2026) – A documentary feature about the only known photographs taken inside the Warsaw Ghetto in April 1943. (HBO Max)

Abled: The Blake Leeper Story (2023) – A documentary about Paralympian Blake Leeper’s attempt to compete in the Olympics. (DVD)

Becoming Johanna (2016) – A short documentary directed by Jonathan Skurnik about a transgender teen. (OVID)

A Day’s Work, A Day’s Pay (2001) – A medium-length documentary directed by Jonathan Skurnik about a controversial welfare-to-work program in New York City. (OVID)

Elie Wiesel: Soul on Fire – A biographical documentary about the titular author and Holocaust survivor, who is best known for writing the memoir Night. Presented as an episode of American Masters. (PBS)

The Family Journey: Raising Gender Nonconforming Children (2010) – A short documentary directed by Jonathan Skurnik about gender nonconforming children. (OVID)

Filmmakers for the Prosecution (2021) – A medium-length documentary about the collection of film evidence against Nazis after World War II. (TCM)

Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates Jr. Season 12, Episode 4: “The Road We Took” – The latest installment of a docuseries presenting celebrities with their ancestral history. Actress Lizzy Caplan and comic Hasan Minhaj are the participants in this episode. (PBS)

The Gods of Times Square (1999) – A documentary about the change to New York’s Times Square in the 1990s. (Blu-ray)

The House From… (2024) – A documentary about famous houses from movies and TV and their current owners. (Blu-ray)

Hung Up on a Dream: The Zombies Documentary (2023) – A documentary feature about the British rock band The Zombies. Read our review of Hung Up on a Dream: The Zombies Documentary and find it on our list of the best documentaries of 2025. *NONFICS PICK* (In Theaters)

I’m Just Anneke (2010) – A short documentary directed by Jonathan Skurnik about a gender nonconforming preteen. (OVID)

Killer Confessions: Case Files of a Texas Ranger Season 1, Episode 3: “True Crime Lies” – A true-crime docuseries involving confessions, starring a retired Texas Ranger. (Investigation Discovery)

Let’s Spend the Night Together (1982) – A concert film starring the Rolling Stones. (4KUHD, Blu-ray, and DVD)

Pole to Pole with Will Smith Episodes 5 & 6: “The Pacific Islands” & “The Kalahari Desert” – The latest episodes of a nature docuseries starring Will Smith covering the whole planet. (National Geographic)

Shoah: Four Sisters (2018) – A documentary by Claude Lanzmann (Shoah) focused on interviews with four women who survived the Holocaust. *NONFICS PICK* (TCM)

The Sorrow and the Pity (1969) – An Oscar-nominated documentary by Marcel Ophüls about the Vichy government in France during World War II. *NONFICS PICK* (TCM)

Spit it Out (2004) – A medium-length documentary directed by Jonathan Skurnik about a man coming to terms with his stutter. (OVID)

Take That Season 1 – A three-part docuseries about the titular boy band. (Netflix)

Wednesday, January 28, 2026

Alaska State Troopers Season 9, Episode 4: “Make Yourself Known” – The latest installment of a docuseries about state troopers in Alaska. (A&E)

Decathlon Champion: The Story of Glenn Morris (1937) – A short film in the Pete Smith Specialty franchise about the winner of the 1936 Olympic decathlon event. (TCM)

Expedition X Season 11, Episode 4: “Terror Below Deck” – The latest installment of a paranormal investigation series. (Discovery)

Harlan Coben’s Final Twist Season 1, Episode 4: “Who Killed Joy?” – The latest installment of a true-crime docuseries exposing shocking murders and scandals. This episode involves a mother’s murder covered up by a fire. (CBS and Paramount+)

My Strange Addiction Season 7, Episode 4 – The latest installment of a docuseries about individuals with obsessive behaviors. (TLC)

People on Paper (1945) – A short documentary about comic strips and cartoonists. (TCM)

Scholastic England (1948) – A short documentary installment of James A. FitzPatrick’s TravelTalks travelogue franchise that explores the British schools Cambridge, Oxford, and Eton. (TCM)

Seattle: Gateway to the Northwest (1940) – A short documentary installment of James A. FitzPatrick’s TravelTalks travelogue franchise that showcases the titular Washington city. (TCM)

Sportsmen at Work (1957) – A short documentary showcasing a New York State Conservation camp. (TCM)

Thursday, January 29, 2026

Chicago, the Beautiful (1948) – A short documentary installment of James A. FitzPatrick’s TravelTalks travelogue franchise that explores Chicago. (TCM)

The Land of the Whale (2024) – A documentary directed by Armando Capó in which he returns to his hometown to make a film about a whale. (OVID)

The Song Remains the Same (1976) – A concert film starring Led Zeppelin. (TCM)

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Sneak Peek At What’s Coming Soon

1/30 – Natchez – A documentary feature about the historical legacy of the titular town in Mississippi. *NONFICS PICK* (In Theaters)

2/4 – The Investigation of Lucy Letby – A true-crime documentary about a neonatal nurse convicted of fatally harming infants. Watch the new trailer for the film below. (Netflix)

2/6 – Queen of Chess – A biographical documentary directed by Rory Kennedy about chess prodigy Judit Polgár. Read more in our 2026 documentary preview. (Netflix)

2/14 – The Rose: Come Back to Me – A documentary feature about the titular South Korean indie band. Watch the trailer for the film below. (In Theaters)

2/18 – Being Gordon Ramsey – A docuseries about the titular chef and TV personality. (Netflix)

2/20 – Billy Preston: That’s the Way God Planned It – A biographical documentary about the titular keyboardist. Watch the new trailer for the film below. (In Theaters)

2/23 – The Inquisitor – A documentary feature about Texas congresswoman Barbara Jordan. (PBS)

3/4 – AURORA: What Happened to the Earth? – A concert film starring the Norwegian singer. Watch the new trailer for the film below. (In Theaters)

3/6 – André Is An Idiot – A documentary feature following a man after his cancer diagnosis. Read our review of André Is An Idiot. *NONFICS PICK* (In Theaters)

5/12 – Marty, Life is Short – A biographical documentary directed by Lawrence Kasdan about actor and comedian Martin Short. (Netflix)

As we round out the end of the first month of 2026, we have finally learned what the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences thinks are the best documentaries of last year (see our Picks of the Week below). It’s perfect timing since we’re now headed into the first weekend of the Sundance Film Festival and able to focus on what will be some of this year’s best documentaries (see our 2026 preview).

Now, without further ado, below are this week’s documentary highlights, followed by daily listings for all known releases and broadcasts, along with a brief look at what’s coming soon for doc fans. Please consider becoming a paid subscriber to receive more in-depth highlights and reviews in the future, plus full access to special posts like our best of and most anticipated lists, and to give me more time to watch more (if not everything) available. If you have a doc in need of coverage or a mention, you can reach me at christopherbartoncampbell (at) gmail.

Nonfics Picks Of The Week: 2026 Oscar Nominees

The 2026 Oscar nominations were announced last week, including 12 documentaries and one hybrid docudrama among the contenders. The nominees for Best Documentary Feature Film include The Alabama Solution (streaming on HBO Max), Come See Me in the Good Light (Apple TV), Cutting through Rocks (currently unavailable), Mr. Nobody Against Putin (Kino Film Collection), and The Perfect Neighbor (Netflix).

Nominees for Best Short Film include All the Empty Rooms (Netflix), Armed Only with a Camera: The Life and Death of Brent Renaud (HBO Max), Children No More: Were and Are Gone (currently unavailable), The Devil is Busy (HBO Max), and Perfectly a Strangeness (currently unavailable). Two documentaries are up for Best Original Song: Diane Warren: Relentless (Kanopy), with “Dear Me”; and Viva Verdi! (currently unavailable), with “Sweet Dreams of Joy.” The hybrid film is The Voice of Hind Rajab (now in theaters), which is nominated for Best International Feature Film.

Winners will be revealed at the Academy Awards on March 15, 2026.

Other Documentary Highlights

Bob Dylan in Don’t Look Back

Don’t Look Back (1967)

It’s been a little over a year since the last time I highlighted D.A. Pennebaker’s Don’t Look Back, as a supplement to the Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown. Since then, I’ve gone more in-depth on the film, which follows Dylan during his 1965 UK tour and is considered among the best documentaries of all time. Here’s an excerpt from our retrospective review of Don’t Look Back from last year:

Dylan’s pompous performative nature in Don’t Look Back makes him one of the most memorable documentary characters ever, up there with anything scripted. According to Andrew Sarris, referring to another journalist’s claim, Pennebaker saw the film as (akin to?) a fictional work starring Bob Dylan as Bob Dylan. When critics attack modern celebrity-focused documentaries for being too contrived for the sake of PR, they ignore what was evident as far back as this film: the most famous subjects typically put on the first line of the facade anyway. Still, Pennebaker has a knack for occasionally capturing his subject in veracious solemnity, as in scenes when Dylan is mostly alone and typing out his wares, or in unpredictable moments such as when a girl is hanging onto his car. It’s not just when he’s unaware. Dylan appears most authentic when performing songs with and for friends off stage, his smiles while playing for a small entourage of trusted associates looking the most casual, candid, and uncalculated of anything here, even though it’s in the clear eye of the camera lens.

Don’t Look Back airs on TCM on Saturday, January 24, as a “Musical Matinee.”

Holocaust Documentaries

Tuesday, January 27, is International Holocaust Remembrance Day, with old and new documentaries programmed for the occasion. As usual, TCM is showing relevant films, both dramatic and documentary, with the latter including Claude Lanzmann’s Shoah: Four Sisters and the 2021 film Filmmakers for the Prosecution. Joining those two, which were also programmed last year on the same date, is Marcel Ophuls’s The Sorrow and the Pity, about France’s Vichy government during World War II. As for new films, PBS will air Elie Wiesel: Soul on Fire, about the titular Holocaust survivor and author, via the series American Masters. HBO Max will premiere 33 Photos from the Ghetto, a history of the 1943 Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, with a focus on the only known photographs taken from inside the Ghetto by one of its Jewish residents.

Jonathan Skurnik Documentaries

The streaming service OVID continues to add documentaries from New Day Films to its library, and this week’s crop spotlights the work of Jonathan Skurnik. He is one of New Day’s many co-op filmmaker-owners and served as Chair of the collective in the late 2010s. Three of his five films debuting on OVID this week are shorts from his Youth and Gender Media Project, which spotlights stories of trans and gender nonconforming children. They are Becoming Joanna, I’m Just Anneke, and The Family Journey: Raising Gender Nonconforming Children. The other two are his earlier, medium-length documentaries Spit It Out, about a stutterer, and A Day’s Work, A Day’s Pay, about three people on welfare in New York City in the Work Experience Program.

These five films begin non-exclusively streaming on OVID on Tuesday, January 27.

Paradise Lost: The Child Murders At Robin Hood Hills (1996)

The true-crime classic Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills turns 30 years old this week, having premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 27, 1996. The feature went on to win a Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Informational Programming, spawned two sequels and a dramatic remake, gave us one of the most memorable documentary characters of all time, and helped to free its three wrongfully convicted subjects from life imprisonment sentences. Here is an excerpt from our Doc Option column recommending the trilogy:

When filmmakers Joe Berlinger and Bruce Sinofsky arrived in West Memphis, Arkansas, in 1994 to cover the murder trials of three teenagers, they had no idea what they were in for. The unforgettable Damien Echols, Jessie Misskelley Jr., and Jason Baldwin stood accused of murdering three young boys the prior summer. Police believed the crime was Satanic in nature and that the murders were part of an arcane ritual.

It quickly became apparent to Berlinger and Sinofsky that all the evidence against the WM3 was circumstantial, that the idea that there was anything ritualistic about the killings was a part of the Satanic Panic of the ’80s and ’90s, and that these young men had been singled out because they were weird enough to attract suspicion. The movie they ended up making, Paradises Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills, is a verite masterpiece, a modern version of The Crucible in which mass paranoia threatens the innocent and allows the wicked to go unpunished.

Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills is streaming on HBO Max.

Sundance Documentaries

The 2026 Sundance Film Festival has begun its final year in Park City, but you don’t have to travel to Utah to see some of the documentaries screening at the event. Many of the programmed films will be available to watch online starting Thursday, January 29, including a bunch of our most anticipated documentaries of 2026, such as Nuisance Bear, Who Killed Alex Odeh?, American Doctor, Time and Water, and Ghost in the Machine. You can also buy tickets for this year’s award winners, whatever they will be.

In the meantime, or as an alternative way of celebrating the event this week, we have a list of the best Sundance documentaries of all time, including Joe Berlinger and Bruce Sinofsky’s Brother’s Keeper (streaming on Kanopy and AMC+), Werner Herzog’s Grizzly Man (Kanopy, Prime Video, The Criterion Channel, and Tubi), Les Blank’s In Heaven There Is No Beer? (The Criterion Channel), James Marsh’s Man on Wire (Kanopy, Prime Video, and Tubi), Jennie Livingston’s Paris is Burning (HBO Max and The Criterion Channel), Ross McElwee’s Sherman’s March (OVID and Kanopy), and Martin Bell’s Streetwise (The Criterion Channel). Also, Barbara Kopple’s hard-to-find masterpiece American Dream, which is screening at Sundance this year for its 35th anniversary.

When We Were Kings (1996)

Another documentary celebrating its 30th anniversary this week is Leon Gast’s When We Were Kings, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 24, 1996. After its theatrical release later in the year, the film went on to win the Oscar for Best Documentary Feature and the Critics Choice Award for Best Documentary. Originally intended to be a concert film covering a three-day music festival in Zaire in 1974, the documentary ended up being more focused on the Muhammad Ali and George Foreman boxing match known as “The Rumble in the Jungle,” held in conjunction with the show. Here’s more info, excerpted from our review of When We Were Kings:

The fight was now the main event. And Ali was the main concentration. Whether he’s the main character is another story. It’s certainly about him, but I might argue that Norman Mailer and George Plimpton are the stars of When We Were Kings as much as Ali is. The two writers are among the five talking heads who were interviewed for the film in the ’90s (Spike Lee is another), and at one point, they provide a rat-a-tat-tat telling and analysis of the bout’s climax that is even more captivating than the boxer’s poetic showboating that makes up much of the earlier-shot material. Meanwhile, the concert acts, including James Brown, B.B. King, and The Spinners, are almost relegated to tertiary status.

When We Were Kings is streaming on HBO Max, The Criterion Channel, The Roku Channel, and Shout! TV.

Subscribe now

Documentary Release Calendar 1/23/26 – 1/29/26

Elie Wiesel and Elisha Wiesel in Elie Wiesel: Soul on Fire

Friday, January 23, 2026

The Big Johnson (2025) – A documentary feature about LGBTQI pioneer Dean Johnson. (In Theaters)

The BMF Documentary: Blowing Money Fast Season 2, Episode 2 – “With the Streets Comes the Violence” – The latest installment of a docuseries about the Black Mafia Family. (Starz)

George Hall and His Orchestra (1937) – A short music film featuring performances by the titular group. (TCM)

Molly-Mae: Behind It All Season 2, Episode 5 – The latest installment of a nonfiction series about British influencer Molly-Mae Hague. (Prime Video)

Monsterquest Season 5, Episode 4: “Hunted” – The latest episode of a docuseries about strange creatures spotted around the world. (History)

Standout: The Ben Kjar Story (2025) – A biographical documentary about the titular wrestler and professional speaker who has Crouzon syndrome. (In Theaters)

Saturday, January 24, 2026

2DIE4 (2026) – A nonfiction feature that follows Formula 1 driver Felipe Nasr in his attempt to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans race. (IMAX Theaters)

Accident, Suicide, or Murder Season 6, Episode 10: “Mother’s Trigger” – The latest episode of this true-crime series involves a 10-year-old boy shooting his dad. (Oxygen)

Don’t Look Back (1967) – A documentary by D.A. Pennebaker following Bob Dylan’s 1965 tour in England. Read our review of Don’t Look Back. *NONFICS PICK* (TCM)

Iyanla: The Inside Fix Season 1, Episode 2: “Bitterness, Blame, and False Realities” – A nonfiction series that revisits Iyanla Vanzant’s show Fix My Life. (OWN)

Kingdom Season 1, Episode 1: “Four Crowns, One Kingdom” – The first installment of a nature series narrated by Sir David Attenborough following rival families of leopards, hyenas, wild dogs, and lions. (AMC+ and BBC America)

Maxxed Out Season 1, Episode 3: “Faith & Finances” – The latest episode of a docuseries focused on people currently having financial troubles. (OWN)

MGM Parade Show #2 (1955) – The second installment of a documentary series devoted to promoting MGM’s films. This film features Judy Garland and Gene Kelly. (TCM)

Sunday, January 25, 2026

Did’ja Know (1950) – A short film produced by Pete Smith that shares answers to various questions. (TCM)

The Hillside Strangler Episode 2: “The Many Faces of Ken Bianchi” – The latest installment of a true-crime docuseries following two serial killers who terrorized Los Angeles in the 1970s. (MGM+)

Killer Relationship with Faith Jenkins Season 4, Episode 12: “Shattered Vows” – The latest installment of a true-crime docuseries about romances gone tragically wrong. (Oxygen)

Snapped: Women Who Kill Episode 4: “Donna Horwitz” – The latest installment of a true-crime docuseries about mysterious and violent cases. This episode is technically part of Snapped Season 36. (Oxygen)

Where is Jane Doe? (1956) – A short true-crime documentary following a New York City detective investigating a missing persons case. (TCM)

Monday, January 26, 2026

120 Hours Behind Bars Season 1, Episode 2: “Leake County Jail” – The latest installment of a nonfiction series that looks at America’s toughest jails. (Discovery)

Big Blue Goose (1956) – A short documentary in the Sportscope series about hunting a specific species of goose. (TCM)

Contraband: Seized at the Border Season 8, Episode 2: ‘“Grab Bag” – The latest episode of a nonfiction series focused on smuggling cases handled by Customs and Border Protection officers. (Discovery)

The Curious Case of… Season 2, Episode 3: “The Skincare Queen and the Hitman – Part 1” – The latest installment of a true-crime docuseries involving mind-bending and jaw-dropping cases. This episode is about a celebrity facialist caught in a web of lies. (Investigation Discovery)

Fatal Attraction: I’d Kill to Be You Season 1, Episode 1: “Latasha Brown: Longing for a Baby” – A true-crime series about cases involving jealousy. (TV One)

History’s Deadliest with Ving Rhames Season 1 – A docuseries about history’s most devastating killers, weapons, battles, and disasters. (History)

Mouth of the Wolf: Amanda Knox Returns to Italy (2026) – A documentary following Amanda Knox as she confronts the prosecutor who sent her to jail for a crime she didn’t commit. (Hulu)

Vivien’s Wild Ride (2025) – A documentary memoir directed by Hollywood film editor Vivien Hillgrove about her declining eyesight. Presented as an episode of Independent Lens. (PBS)

Tuesday, January 27, 2026

33 Photos from the Ghetto (2026) – A documentary feature about the only known photographs taken inside the Warsaw Ghetto in April 1943. (HBO Max)

Abled: The Blake Leeper Story (2023) – A documentary about Paralympian Blake Leeper’s attempt to compete in the Olympics. (DVD)

Becoming Johanna (2016) – A short documentary directed by Jonathan Skurnik about a transgender teen. (OVID)

A Day’s Work, A Day’s Pay (2001) – A medium-length documentary directed by Jonathan Skurnik about a controversial welfare-to-work program in New York City. (OVID)

Elie Wiesel: Soul on Fire – A biographical documentary about the titular author and Holocaust survivor, who is best known for writing the memoir Night. Presented as an episode of American Masters. (PBS)

The Family Journey: Raising Gender Nonconforming Children (2010) – A short documentary directed by Jonathan Skurnik about gender nonconforming children. (OVID)

Filmmakers for the Prosecution (2021) – A medium-length documentary about the collection of film evidence against Nazis after World War II. (TCM)

Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates Jr. Season 12, Episode 4: “The Road We Took” – The latest installment of a docuseries presenting celebrities with their ancestral history. Actress Lizzy Caplan and comic Hasan Minhaj are the participants in this episode. (PBS)

The Gods of Times Square (1999) – A documentary about the change to New York’s Times Square in the 1990s. (Blu-ray)

The House From… (2024) – A documentary about famous houses from movies and TV and their current owners. (Blu-ray)

Hung Up on a Dream: The Zombies Documentary (2023) – A documentary feature about the British rock band The Zombies. Read our review of Hung Up on a Dream: The Zombies Documentary and find it on our list of the best documentaries of 2025. *NONFICS PICK* (In Theaters)

I’m Just Anneke (2010) – A short documentary directed by Jonathan Skurnik about a gender nonconforming preteen. (OVID)

Killer Confessions: Case Files of a Texas Ranger Season 1, Episode 3: “True Crime Lies” – A true-crime docuseries involving confessions, starring a retired Texas Ranger. (Investigation Discovery)

Let’s Spend the Night Together (1982) – A concert film starring the Rolling Stones. (4KUHD, Blu-ray, and DVD)

Pole to Pole with Will Smith Episodes 5 & 6: “The Pacific Islands” & “The Kalahari Desert” – The latest episodes of a nature docuseries starring Will Smith covering the whole planet. (National Geographic)

Shoah: Four Sisters (2018) – A documentary by Claude Lanzmann (Shoah) focused on interviews with four women who survived the Holocaust. *NONFICS PICK* (TCM)

The Sorrow and the Pity (1969) – An Oscar-nominated documentary by Marcel Ophüls about the Vichy government in France during World War II. *NONFICS PICK* (TCM)

Spit it Out (2004) – A medium-length documentary directed by Jonathan Skurnik about a man coming to terms with his stutter. (OVID)

Take That Season 1 – A three-part docuseries about the titular boy band. (Netflix)

Wednesday, January 28, 2026

Alaska State Troopers Season 9, Episode 4: “Make Yourself Known” – The latest installment of a docuseries about state troopers in Alaska. (A&E)

Decathlon Champion: The Story of Glenn Morris (1937) – A short film in the Pete Smith Specialty franchise about the winner of the 1936 Olympic decathlon event. (TCM)

Expedition X Season 11, Episode 4: “Terror Below Deck” – The latest installment of a paranormal investigation series. (Discovery)

Harlan Coben’s Final Twist Season 1, Episode 4: “Who Killed Joy?” – The latest installment of a true-crime docuseries exposing shocking murders and scandals. This episode involves a mother’s murder covered up by a fire. (CBS and Paramount+)

My Strange Addiction Season 7, Episode 4 – The latest installment of a docuseries about individuals with obsessive behaviors. (TLC)

People on Paper (1945) – A short documentary about comic strips and cartoonists. (TCM)

Scholastic England (1948) – A short documentary installment of James A. FitzPatrick’s TravelTalks travelogue franchise that explores the British schools Cambridge, Oxford, and Eton. (TCM)

Seattle: Gateway to the Northwest (1940) – A short documentary installment of James A. FitzPatrick’s TravelTalks travelogue franchise that showcases the titular Washington city. (TCM)

Sportsmen at Work (1957) – A short documentary showcasing a New York State Conservation camp. (TCM)

Thursday, January 29, 2026

Chicago, the Beautiful (1948) – A short documentary installment of James A. FitzPatrick’s TravelTalks travelogue franchise that explores Chicago. (TCM)

The Land of the Whale (2024) – A documentary directed by Armando Capó in which he returns to his hometown to make a film about a whale. (OVID)

The Song Remains the Same (1976) – A concert film starring Led Zeppelin. (TCM)

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Sneak Peek At What’s Coming Soon

1/30 – Natchez – A documentary feature about the historical legacy of the titular town in Mississippi. *NONFICS PICK* (In Theaters)

2/4 – The Investigation of Lucy Letby – A true-crime documentary about a neonatal nurse convicted of fatally harming infants. Watch the new trailer for the film below. (Netflix)

2/6 – Queen of Chess – A biographical documentary directed by Rory Kennedy about chess prodigy Judit Polgár. Read more in our 2026 documentary preview. (Netflix)

2/14 – The Rose: Come Back to Me – A documentary feature about the titular South Korean indie band. Watch the trailer for the film below. (In Theaters)

2/18 – Being Gordon Ramsey – A docuseries about the titular chef and TV personality. (Netflix)

2/20 – Billy Preston: That’s the Way God Planned It – A biographical documentary about the titular keyboardist. Watch the new trailer for the film below. (In Theaters)

2/23 – The Inquisitor – A documentary feature about Texas congresswoman Barbara Jordan. (PBS)

3/4 – AURORA: What Happened to the Earth? – A concert film starring the Norwegian singer. Watch the new trailer for the film below. (In Theaters)

3/6 – André Is An Idiot – A documentary feature following a man after his cancer diagnosis. Read our review of André Is An Idiot. *NONFICS PICK* (In Theaters)

5/12 – Marty, Life is Short – A biographical documentary directed by Lawrence Kasdan about actor and comedian Martin Short. (Netflix)

As we round out the end of the first month of 2026, we have finally learned what the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences thinks are the best documentaries of last year (see our Picks of the Week below). It’s perfect timing since we’re now headed into the first weekend of the Sundance Film Festival and able to focus on what will be some of this year’s best documentaries (see our 2026 preview).

Now, without further ado, below are this week’s documentary highlights, followed by daily listings for all known releases and broadcasts, along with a brief look at what’s coming soon for doc fans. Please consider becoming a paid subscriber to receive more in-depth highlights and reviews in the future, plus full access to special posts like our best of and most anticipated lists, and to give me more time to watch more (if not everything) available. If you have a doc in need of coverage or a mention, you can reach me at christopherbartoncampbell (at) gmail.

Nonfics Picks Of The Week: 2026 Oscar Nominees

The 2026 Oscar nominations were announced last week, including 12 documentaries and one hybrid docudrama among the contenders. The nominees for Best Documentary Feature Film include The Alabama Solution (streaming on HBO Max), Come See Me in the Good Light (Apple TV), Cutting through Rocks (currently unavailable), Mr. Nobody Against Putin (Kino Film Collection), and The Perfect Neighbor (Netflix).

Nominees for Best Short Film include All the Empty Rooms (Netflix), Armed Only with a Camera: The Life and Death of Brent Renaud (HBO Max), Children No More: Were and Are Gone (currently unavailable), The Devil is Busy (HBO Max), and Perfectly a Strangeness (currently unavailable). Two documentaries are up for Best Original Song: Diane Warren: Relentless (Kanopy), with “Dear Me”; and Viva Verdi! (currently unavailable), with “Sweet Dreams of Joy.” The hybrid film is The Voice of Hind Rajab (now in theaters), which is nominated for Best International Feature Film.

Winners will be revealed at the Academy Awards on March 15, 2026.

Other Documentary Highlights

Bob Dylan in Don’t Look Back

Don’t Look Back (1967)

It’s been a little over a year since the last time I highlighted D.A. Pennebaker’s Don’t Look Back, as a supplement to the Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown. Since then, I’ve gone more in-depth on the film, which follows Dylan during his 1965 UK tour and is considered among the best documentaries of all time. Here’s an excerpt from our retrospective review of Don’t Look Back from last year:

Dylan’s pompous performative nature in Don’t Look Back makes him one of the most memorable documentary characters ever, up there with anything scripted. According to Andrew Sarris, referring to another journalist’s claim, Pennebaker saw the film as (akin to?) a fictional work starring Bob Dylan as Bob Dylan. When critics attack modern celebrity-focused documentaries for being too contrived for the sake of PR, they ignore what was evident as far back as this film: the most famous subjects typically put on the first line of the facade anyway. Still, Pennebaker has a knack for occasionally capturing his subject in veracious solemnity, as in scenes when Dylan is mostly alone and typing out his wares, or in unpredictable moments such as when a girl is hanging onto his car. It’s not just when he’s unaware. Dylan appears most authentic when performing songs with and for friends off stage, his smiles while playing for a small entourage of trusted associates looking the most casual, candid, and uncalculated of anything here, even though it’s in the clear eye of the camera lens.

Don’t Look Back airs on TCM on Saturday, January 24, as a “Musical Matinee.”

Holocaust Documentaries

Tuesday, January 27, is International Holocaust Remembrance Day, with old and new documentaries programmed for the occasion. As usual, TCM is showing relevant films, both dramatic and documentary, with the latter including Claude Lanzmann’s Shoah: Four Sisters and the 2021 film Filmmakers for the Prosecution. Joining those two, which were also programmed last year on the same date, is Marcel Ophuls’s The Sorrow and the Pity, about France’s Vichy government during World War II. As for new films, PBS will air Elie Wiesel: Soul on Fire, about the titular Holocaust survivor and author, via the series American Masters. HBO Max will premiere 33 Photos from the Ghetto, a history of the 1943 Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, with a focus on the only known photographs taken from inside the Ghetto by one of its Jewish residents.

Jonathan Skurnik Documentaries

The streaming service OVID continues to add documentaries from New Day Films to its library, and this week’s crop spotlights the work of Jonathan Skurnik. He is one of New Day’s many co-op filmmaker-owners and served as Chair of the collective in the late 2010s. Three of his five films debuting on OVID this week are shorts from his Youth and Gender Media Project, which spotlights stories of trans and gender nonconforming children. They are Becoming Joanna, I’m Just Anneke, and The Family Journey: Raising Gender Nonconforming Children. The other two are his earlier, medium-length documentaries Spit It Out, about a stutterer, and A Day’s Work, A Day’s Pay, about three people on welfare in New York City in the Work Experience Program.

These five films begin non-exclusively streaming on OVID on Tuesday, January 27.

Paradise Lost: The Child Murders At Robin Hood Hills (1996)

The true-crime classic Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills turns 30 years old this week, having premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 27, 1996. The feature went on to win a Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Informational Programming, spawned two sequels and a dramatic remake, gave us one of the most memorable documentary characters of all time, and helped to free its three wrongfully convicted subjects from life imprisonment sentences. Here is an excerpt from our Doc Option column recommending the trilogy:

When filmmakers Joe Berlinger and Bruce Sinofsky arrived in West Memphis, Arkansas, in 1994 to cover the murder trials of three teenagers, they had no idea what they were in for. The unforgettable Damien Echols, Jessie Misskelley Jr., and Jason Baldwin stood accused of murdering three young boys the prior summer. Police believed the crime was Satanic in nature and that the murders were part of an arcane ritual.

It quickly became apparent to Berlinger and Sinofsky that all the evidence against the WM3 was circumstantial, that the idea that there was anything ritualistic about the killings was a part of the Satanic Panic of the ’80s and ’90s, and that these young men had been singled out because they were weird enough to attract suspicion. The movie they ended up making, Paradises Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills, is a verite masterpiece, a modern version of The Crucible in which mass paranoia threatens the innocent and allows the wicked to go unpunished.

Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills is streaming on HBO Max.

Sundance Documentaries

The 2026 Sundance Film Festival has begun its final year in Park City, but you don’t have to travel to Utah to see some of the documentaries screening at the event. Many of the programmed films will be available to watch online starting Thursday, January 29, including a bunch of our most anticipated documentaries of 2026, such as Nuisance Bear, Who Killed Alex Odeh?, American Doctor, Time and Water, and Ghost in the Machine. You can also buy tickets for this year’s award winners, whatever they will be.

In the meantime, or as an alternative way of celebrating the event this week, we have a list of the best Sundance documentaries of all time, including Joe Berlinger and Bruce Sinofsky’s Brother’s Keeper (streaming on Kanopy and AMC+), Werner Herzog’s Grizzly Man (Kanopy, Prime Video, The Criterion Channel, and Tubi), Les Blank’s In Heaven There Is No Beer? (The Criterion Channel), James Marsh’s Man on Wire (Kanopy, Prime Video, and Tubi), Jennie Livingston’s Paris is Burning (HBO Max and The Criterion Channel), Ross McElwee’s Sherman’s March (OVID and Kanopy), and Martin Bell’s Streetwise (The Criterion Channel). Also, Barbara Kopple’s hard-to-find masterpiece American Dream, which is screening at Sundance this year for its 35th anniversary.

When We Were Kings (1996)

Another documentary celebrating its 30th anniversary this week is Leon Gast’s When We Were Kings, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 24, 1996. After its theatrical release later in the year, the film went on to win the Oscar for Best Documentary Feature and the Critics Choice Award for Best Documentary. Originally intended to be a concert film covering a three-day music festival in Zaire in 1974, the documentary ended up being more focused on the Muhammad Ali and George Foreman boxing match known as “The Rumble in the Jungle,” held in conjunction with the show. Here’s more info, excerpted from our review of When We Were Kings:

The fight was now the main event. And Ali was the main concentration. Whether he’s the main character is another story. It’s certainly about him, but I might argue that Norman Mailer and George Plimpton are the stars of When We Were Kings as much as Ali is. The two writers are among the five talking heads who were interviewed for the film in the ’90s (Spike Lee is another), and at one point, they provide a rat-a-tat-tat telling and analysis of the bout’s climax that is even more captivating than the boxer’s poetic showboating that makes up much of the earlier-shot material. Meanwhile, the concert acts, including James Brown, B.B. King, and The Spinners, are almost relegated to tertiary status.

When We Were Kings is streaming on HBO Max, The Criterion Channel, The Roku Channel, and Shout! TV.

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Documentary Release Calendar 1/23/26 – 1/29/26

Elie Wiesel and Elisha Wiesel in Elie Wiesel: Soul on Fire

Friday, January 23, 2026

The Big Johnson (2025) – A documentary feature about LGBTQI pioneer Dean Johnson. (In Theaters)

The BMF Documentary: Blowing Money Fast Season 2, Episode 2 – “With the Streets Comes the Violence” – The latest installment of a docuseries about the Black Mafia Family. (Starz)

George Hall and His Orchestra (1937) – A short music film featuring performances by the titular group. (TCM)

Molly-Mae: Behind It All Season 2, Episode 5 – The latest installment of a nonfiction series about British influencer Molly-Mae Hague. (Prime Video)

Monsterquest Season 5, Episode 4: “Hunted” – The latest episode of a docuseries about strange creatures spotted around the world. (History)

Standout: The Ben Kjar Story (2025) – A biographical documentary about the titular wrestler and professional speaker who has Crouzon syndrome. (In Theaters)

Saturday, January 24, 2026

2DIE4 (2026) – A nonfiction feature that follows Formula 1 driver Felipe Nasr in his attempt to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans race. (IMAX Theaters)

Accident, Suicide, or Murder Season 6, Episode 10: “Mother’s Trigger” – The latest episode of this true-crime series involves a 10-year-old boy shooting his dad. (Oxygen)

Don’t Look Back (1967) – A documentary by D.A. Pennebaker following Bob Dylan’s 1965 tour in England. Read our review of Don’t Look Back. *NONFICS PICK* (TCM)

Iyanla: The Inside Fix Season 1, Episode 2: “Bitterness, Blame, and False Realities” – A nonfiction series that revisits Iyanla Vanzant’s show Fix My Life. (OWN)

Kingdom Season 1, Episode 1: “Four Crowns, One Kingdom” – The first installment of a nature series narrated by Sir David Attenborough following rival families of leopards, hyenas, wild dogs, and lions. (AMC+ and BBC America)

Maxxed Out Season 1, Episode 3: “Faith & Finances” – The latest episode of a docuseries focused on people currently having financial troubles. (OWN)

MGM Parade Show #2 (1955) – The second installment of a documentary series devoted to promoting MGM’s films. This film features Judy Garland and Gene Kelly. (TCM)

Sunday, January 25, 2026

Did’ja Know (1950) – A short film produced by Pete Smith that shares answers to various questions. (TCM)

The Hillside Strangler Episode 2: “The Many Faces of Ken Bianchi” – The latest installment of a true-crime docuseries following two serial killers who terrorized Los Angeles in the 1970s. (MGM+)

Killer Relationship with Faith Jenkins Season 4, Episode 12: “Shattered Vows” – The latest installment of a true-crime docuseries about romances gone tragically wrong. (Oxygen)

Snapped: Women Who Kill Episode 4: “Donna Horwitz” – The latest installment of a true-crime docuseries about mysterious and violent cases. This episode is technically part of Snapped Season 36. (Oxygen)

Where is Jane Doe? (1956) – A short true-crime documentary following a New York City detective investigating a missing persons case. (TCM)

Monday, January 26, 2026

120 Hours Behind Bars Season 1, Episode 2: “Leake County Jail” – The latest installment of a nonfiction series that looks at America’s toughest jails. (Discovery)

Big Blue Goose (1956) – A short documentary in the Sportscope series about hunting a specific species of goose. (TCM)

Contraband: Seized at the Border Season 8, Episode 2: ‘“Grab Bag” – The latest episode of a nonfiction series focused on smuggling cases handled by Customs and Border Protection officers. (Discovery)

The Curious Case of… Season 2, Episode 3: “The Skincare Queen and the Hitman – Part 1” – The latest installment of a true-crime docuseries involving mind-bending and jaw-dropping cases. This episode is about a celebrity facialist caught in a web of lies. (Investigation Discovery)

Fatal Attraction: I’d Kill to Be You Season 1, Episode 1: “Latasha Brown: Longing for a Baby” – A true-crime series about cases involving jealousy. (TV One)

History’s Deadliest with Ving Rhames Season 1 – A docuseries about history’s most devastating killers, weapons, battles, and disasters. (History)

Mouth of the Wolf: Amanda Knox Returns to Italy (2026) – A documentary following Amanda Knox as she confronts the prosecutor who sent her to jail for a crime she didn’t commit. (Hulu)

Vivien’s Wild Ride (2025) – A documentary memoir directed by Hollywood film editor Vivien Hillgrove about her declining eyesight. Presented as an episode of Independent Lens. (PBS)

Tuesday, January 27, 2026

33 Photos from the Ghetto (2026) – A documentary feature about the only known photographs taken inside the Warsaw Ghetto in April 1943. (HBO Max)

Abled: The Blake Leeper Story (2023) – A documentary about Paralympian Blake Leeper’s attempt to compete in the Olympics. (DVD)

Becoming Johanna (2016) – A short documentary directed by Jonathan Skurnik about a transgender teen. (OVID)

A Day’s Work, A Day’s Pay (2001) – A medium-length documentary directed by Jonathan Skurnik about a controversial welfare-to-work program in New York City. (OVID)

Elie Wiesel: Soul on Fire – A biographical documentary about the titular author and Holocaust survivor, who is best known for writing the memoir Night. Presented as an episode of American Masters. (PBS)

The Family Journey: Raising Gender Nonconforming Children (2010) – A short documentary directed by Jonathan Skurnik about gender nonconforming children. (OVID)

Filmmakers for the Prosecution (2021) – A medium-length documentary about the collection of film evidence against Nazis after World War II. (TCM)

Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates Jr. Season 12, Episode 4: “The Road We Took” – The latest installment of a docuseries presenting celebrities with their ancestral history. Actress Lizzy Caplan and comic Hasan Minhaj are the participants in this episode. (PBS)

The Gods of Times Square (1999) – A documentary about the change to New York’s Times Square in the 1990s. (Blu-ray)

The House From… (2024) – A documentary about famous houses from movies and TV and their current owners. (Blu-ray)

Hung Up on a Dream: The Zombies Documentary (2023) – A documentary feature about the British rock band The Zombies. Read our review of Hung Up on a Dream: The Zombies Documentary and find it on our list of the best documentaries of 2025. *NONFICS PICK* (In Theaters)

I’m Just Anneke (2010) – A short documentary directed by Jonathan Skurnik about a gender nonconforming preteen. (OVID)

Killer Confessions: Case Files of a Texas Ranger Season 1, Episode 3: “True Crime Lies” – A true-crime docuseries involving confessions, starring a retired Texas Ranger. (Investigation Discovery)

Let’s Spend the Night Together (1982) – A concert film starring the Rolling Stones. (4KUHD, Blu-ray, and DVD)

Pole to Pole with Will Smith Episodes 5 & 6: “The Pacific Islands” & “The Kalahari Desert” – The latest episodes of a nature docuseries starring Will Smith covering the whole planet. (National Geographic)

Shoah: Four Sisters (2018) – A documentary by Claude Lanzmann (Shoah) focused on interviews with four women who survived the Holocaust. *NONFICS PICK* (TCM)

The Sorrow and the Pity (1969) – An Oscar-nominated documentary by Marcel Ophüls about the Vichy government in France during World War II. *NONFICS PICK* (TCM)

Spit it Out (2004) – A medium-length documentary directed by Jonathan Skurnik about a man coming to terms with his stutter. (OVID)

Take That Season 1 – A three-part docuseries about the titular boy band. (Netflix)

Wednesday, January 28, 2026

Alaska State Troopers Season 9, Episode 4: “Make Yourself Known” – The latest installment of a docuseries about state troopers in Alaska. (A&E)

Decathlon Champion: The Story of Glenn Morris (1937) – A short film in the Pete Smith Specialty franchise about the winner of the 1936 Olympic decathlon event. (TCM)

Expedition X Season 11, Episode 4: “Terror Below Deck” – The latest installment of a paranormal investigation series. (Discovery)

Harlan Coben’s Final Twist Season 1, Episode 4: “Who Killed Joy?” – The latest installment of a true-crime docuseries exposing shocking murders and scandals. This episode involves a mother’s murder covered up by a fire. (CBS and Paramount+)

My Strange Addiction Season 7, Episode 4 – The latest installment of a docuseries about individuals with obsessive behaviors. (TLC)

People on Paper (1945) – A short documentary about comic strips and cartoonists. (TCM)

Scholastic England (1948) – A short documentary installment of James A. FitzPatrick’s TravelTalks travelogue franchise that explores the British schools Cambridge, Oxford, and Eton. (TCM)

Seattle: Gateway to the Northwest (1940) – A short documentary installment of James A. FitzPatrick’s TravelTalks travelogue franchise that showcases the titular Washington city. (TCM)

Sportsmen at Work (1957) – A short documentary showcasing a New York State Conservation camp. (TCM)

Thursday, January 29, 2026

Chicago, the Beautiful (1948) – A short documentary installment of James A. FitzPatrick’s TravelTalks travelogue franchise that explores Chicago. (TCM)

The Land of the Whale (2024) – A documentary directed by Armando Capó in which he returns to his hometown to make a film about a whale. (OVID)

The Song Remains the Same (1976) – A concert film starring Led Zeppelin. (TCM)

Share Nonfics

Sneak Peek At What’s Coming Soon

1/30 – Natchez – A documentary feature about the historical legacy of the titular town in Mississippi. *NONFICS PICK* (In Theaters)

2/4 – The Investigation of Lucy Letby – A true-crime documentary about a neonatal nurse convicted of fatally harming infants. Watch the new trailer for the film below. (Netflix)

2/6 – Queen of Chess – A biographical documentary directed by Rory Kennedy about chess prodigy Judit Polgár. Read more in our 2026 documentary preview. (Netflix)

2/14 – The Rose: Come Back to Me – A documentary feature about the titular South Korean indie band. Watch the trailer for the film below. (In Theaters)

2/18 – Being Gordon Ramsey – A docuseries about the titular chef and TV personality. (Netflix)

2/20 – Billy Preston: That’s the Way God Planned It – A biographical documentary about the titular keyboardist. Watch the new trailer for the film below. (In Theaters)

2/23 – The Inquisitor – A documentary feature about Texas congresswoman Barbara Jordan. (PBS)

3/4 – AURORA: What Happened to the Earth? – A concert film starring the Norwegian singer. Watch the new trailer for the film below. (In Theaters)

3/6 – André Is An Idiot – A documentary feature following a man after his cancer diagnosis. Read our review of André Is An Idiot. *NONFICS PICK* (In Theaters)

5/12 – Marty, Life is Short – A biographical documentary directed by Lawrence Kasdan about actor and comedian Martin Short. (Netflix)

Last we checked in with Brett Ratner, he was eyeing a summer shoot for “Rush Hour 4” — which, let’s all be honest here, was greenlit by Donald Trump.

Ratner hasn’t worked in Hollywood for the past seven years. In 2017, at the height of #MeToo, he faced multiple allegations of sexual misconduct and harassment and was immediately dropped by his agency. Ratner has strongly denied all allegations, and no charges were ever brought against him.

However, one studio willing to work with Ratner is Amazon, and they’re now teaming up with him on—of all things—a Melania Trump documentary, which will be co-produced by the former First Lady herself. The film, which was acquired for $40M, is slated for release on January 30 in over 2000 screens nationwide.

That said, and to the surprise of absolutely nobody, presales are atrocious for this doc, which Amazon/MGM is giving an exclusive theatrical run. Internal tracking suggests the film might open below $1M on its opening weekend.

Reports this week indicate that advance bookings in key markets—like Los Angeles and Florida—are virtually non-existent. Hollywood insider Rob Shuter quoted one source as saying that in New York, “only a handful of seats have been booked”.

These static numbers wouldn’t be so bad for a documentary if it weren’t for the fact that the damn film cost $40M to produce. Why? Turns out Amazon/MGM Studios agreed to pay that amount to license and distribute the film, rather than a typical low-budget documentary deal. It’s reportedly the largest known licensing deal for a documentary of this kind.

According to the official description, the film “offers unprecedented access to the 20 days leading up to the 2025 Presidential Inauguration — through the eyes of the First Lady-elect herself.” Amazon MGM also invites viewers to “step inside Melania Trump’s world as she orchestrates inauguration plans, navigates the complexities of the White House transition, and reenters public life with her family.”

This doc could have nabbed decent streaming numbers, but there’s absolutely no reason for it to be rolled out in theaters. That said, Amazon boss Jeff Bezos lights his money on fire for ambiance, and odds are he won’t be losing much sleep over this.

From a sure-to-be-controversial sex comedy to a look at Courtney Love’s comeback — our picks for the must-see movies at this year’s Sundance Film Festival

From a sure-to-be-controversial sex comedy to a look at Courtney Love’s comeback — our picks for the must-see movies at this year’s Sundance Film Festival