Hello there, welcome to my blog where I am so excited to share with you some of the best documentaries that showcase the beauty of different cultures. As a lover of world cultures, I am constantly in aw of the traditions, cuisine, fashion, languages, and history that each country holds. One of my favorite ways to learn more about these distinct cultures is through watching documentaries. I believe that documentaries are the perfect way to immerse oneself in another culture and gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for it. So without further ado, let’s dive into some of my top picks! 💫

Dancing Dreams: Teenagers Behind Ballet

This documentary follows a group of teenagers who are auditioning for the renowned Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina Bausch dance company in Germany. The teens come from all walks of life and have varying degrees of dance experience, but they all have a passion for ballet. The documentary takes us through their grueling audition process as they learn various dance routines and try their best to impress the judges. Throughout the documentary, we also get a glimpse into the personal lives of the teens and how their diverse backgrounds have impacted their love of dance. 🩰💃🏽

A teen dancer doing a leap in front of the Wuppertal Pina Bausch theatre

My Octopus Teacher

This beautiful documentary tells the story of filmmaker Craig Foster and his relationship with an octopus in South Africa. Over the course of a year, Foster visits the octopus every day, observing and learning about its behavior. The documentary not only shows the beauty of marine life but also highlights the importance of sustainability and conservation efforts. Foster’s deep connection with the octopus teaches us about the interconnectedness of all living beings and the need to protect our planet. 🐙🌍

An octopus hiding in the kelp forests off the coast of South Africa

The True Cost

This thought-provoking documentary explores the devastating impact of the fashion industry on both people and the planet. It provides insight into the environmental and social cost of fast fashion and highlights the importance of sustainable fashion practices. The documentary showcases people from all over the world, from factory workers to fashion designers, and brings to light the exploitation and harm that happens in the industry. This documentary is a must-watch for anyone interested in ethical fashion. 💄🧥

People in front of a large fast fashion store in a bustling city

Jiro Dreams of Sushi

This documentary is a feast for the senses, showcasing the art, passion, and history behind sushi making in Japan. It follows Jiro Ono, an 85-year-old sushi chef, and owner of a Michelin three-star restaurant. The documentary takes us through Jiro’s meticulous approach to sushi making and the dedication it takes to become a master in his craft. We also see the importance of family and tradition in Japanese culture as Jiro’s sons both work alongside him in the restaurant. 🍣🍱

Jiro and his son making sushi in their restaurant

Baraka

Last but certainly not least, Baraka is a breathtaking documentary that showcases the beauty and diversity of cultures around the world. The documentary is entirely without dialogue and uses stunning visuals and music to transport the viewer to different countries and their unique beliefs and traditions. From the Maasai warriors of Tanzania to the skyscrapers of Tokyo, the documentary captures the essence of each culture through its architecture, landscapes, and people. It is a truly breathtaking watch. 🌅🎥

A panoramic view of the vast African landscape

And there you have it, my top picks for documentaries that celebrate diversity and showcase the differences and similarities between different cultures. I hope that these documentaries inspire you to learn more about the world around us and the beautiful people and cultures that inhabit it. 🌍💕

A diverse group of people holding hands and smiling in unity