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Tarzana Treatment Centers (TTC) knows the value of a list of moving documentaries. When you are experiencing hard times, it helps to awaken positive emotions. By having a list of moving documentaries, you possess an easily accessible tool. Often, by escaping into a story that inspires you and moves your heart, you find quick relief.

However, TTC also knows a list of moving documentaries will not solve those hard times. Indeed, when it comes to real-life troubles, easy answers are rare at best. Still, by getting a breather and taking a step back, you quiet the negative pounding inside. Instead of being overwhelmed, you open the door to new perspectives. As a nonprofit provider of mental health and substance use disorder services, TTC is here to help. Therefore, we offer a list of moving documentaries that might help you navigate the darkest waters.

List of Moving Documentaries for You

1) Man On Wire (2008)

On August 7th, 1974, Philippe Petit shocks the world when he steps out on a wire illegally rigged between the New York World Trade Centers. Wanting only to succeed at what seems impossible, the young Frenchman’s story inspires. Also, his optimism moves the heart.

2) Searching for Sugar Man (2012)

In the 1970s, a brilliant Latino musician releases a brilliant first album, then slips into obscurity. Years later, his music became hugely popular in South Africa, leading two fans on a journey to discover his fate. Indeed, the story of Rodriguez is a feel-good tale of true redemption.

3) Jiro Dreams of Sushi (2012)

At 87-years old, sushi master Jiro runs a tiny restaurant in Tokyo that has three Michelin stars. Despite never chasing fame, he is known as the best sushi chef in the world. The documentary features a moving tale of a life well-lived, including an earnest dedication to his craft.

4) Cameraperson (2016)

As a respected documentary cinematographer, Kirsten Johnson reevaluates after 25 years behind the camera. Thus, she edits together footage from an incredible life. This inspiring memoir explores human connections. Hence, she asks what it means to film and be filmed.

5) Planet Earth – The Complete Series (2006)

An 11-part series narrated by David Attenborough and produced by the BBC, it is a wondrous creation. If you want to see the beauty and magnificence of our planet, Planet Earth reveals so much. Indeed, it inspires a sense of reverence and deep appreciation for our true home.

6) Into the Universe with Stephen Hawking (2010)

After learning about our planet, why not join renowned physicist Stephen Hawking in a new adventure. The late genius offers his vision of the universe to the screen with insight and humor. Indeed, it is inspiring to see the man use his mind to transcend his physical limitations.

7) Stranded: I’ve Come from a Plane that Crashed on the Mountains (2007)

Told before in Alive, a popular American movie, this documentary tells the story of survival in the voices of the survivors. Facing hard choices, the passengers came together and stood as one. Indeed, it shows how the worst situations often bring out the best in people.

8) Life In A Day (2011)

Asking people to send in videos of their day, Oscar-winning director Kevin MacDonald receives over 80,000 clips from across the globe. Amazed by the contributions, he creates a stirring documentary about the unity of human experience. He highlights community and oneness.

So Many More Moving Documentaries

As we all know, this list of moving documentaries for hard times only scratches the surface. Indeed, there is so much more out there once you begin your exploration. After all, modern algorithms will lead you from one great documentary to another. As a free resource, Tarzana Treatment Centers believes these documentaries often help quiet the negativity and open the heart to new suggestions and possibilities.