Must-watch feature documentaries for children and young people
Documentaries have the power to educate, inspire, and captivate audiences of all ages. While some documentaries delve into dark or complex subjects, there is a treasure trove of films suitable for children and young people that combine entertainment with valuable life lessons. In this blog, we will explore a curated list of outstanding feature documentaries that are not only educational but also enjoyable for the younger audience.
Être et Avoir
"Être et Avoir," directed by Nicolas Philibert, offers a heartwarming glimpse into the world of a one-room schoolhouse in rural France. The film follows a dedicated teacher as he imparts valuable lessons to a diverse group of students. This documentary teaches children about the importance of education, compassion, and understanding, making it a touching and enriching experience.
Common sense media age recommendation: N/A
BBFC rating: U
Spellbound
For a thrilling exploration of competition and determination, "Spellbound" is a must-watch. Directed by Jeff Blitz, the documentary follows young spellers as they compete in the National Spelling Bee. The film not only showcases the intensity of the competition but also highlights the resilience and hard work of these talented young individuals.
Common sense media age recommendation: 8+
BBFC rating: U
My Octopus Teacher
Nestled in the underwater world, "My Octopus Teacher" directed by Pippa Ehrlich and James Reed, tells the extraordinary story of a filmmaker's unique bond with an octopus. This visually stunning documentary not only provides a captivating look at marine life but also instills a sense of wonder and respect for the natural world in young viewers.
Common sense media age recommendation: 8+
BBFC rating: U
Cowspiracy
A thought-provoking documentary for environmentally conscious young minds, "Cowspiracy" explores the environmental impact of animal agriculture. Directed by Kip Andersen and Keegan Kuhn, the film sheds light on the importance of sustainable living and encourages children and young people to think critically about their choices and their impact on the planet.
Common sense media age recommendation: 13+
BBFC rating: U
Mad Hot Ballroom
"Mad Hot Ballroom," directed by Marilyn Agrelo, takes us into the world of ballroom dancing competitions among fifth-grade students in New York City. The film not only showcases the transformative power of dance but also emphasizes the values of teamwork, discipline, and self-expression. It's a delightful journey that encourages young viewers to discover their passions and talents.
Common sense media age recommendation: 8+
BBFC rating: U
The Speed Cubers
This heartwarming documentary, available on Netflix, delves into the world of competitive Rubik's Cube solving. Directed by Sue Kim, "The Speed Cubers" not only explores the thrill of competition but also touches on themes of friendship and neurodiversity, as one of the featured cubers is on the autism spectrum. It's an inspiring watch that promotes understanding and acceptance.
Common sense media age recommendation: 8+
BBFC rating U
Hoop Dreams
While recommended for audiences aged 15 and above due to its mature themes, "Hoop Dreams" is a powerful documentary that follows the lives of two African-American high school students with dreams of becoming professional basketball players. Directed by Steve James, the film addresses issues of race, socioeconomic challenges, and the pursuit of dreams, offering valuable lessons for older children and young adults.
Common sense media age recommendation: 13+
BBFC rating 12
Supersize Me
Morgan Spurlock's "Supersize Me" takes viewers on a eye-opening journey into the world of fast food, using himself as a guinea pig. The documentary explores the consequences of consuming a diet comprised solely of McDonald's for 30 days. With a mix of humor and critical analysis, it's a thought-provoking film that encourages young audiences to think twice about their food choices.
Common sense media age recommendation: 13+
BBFC rating: 12
Dogtown and Z-Boys
This exhilarating documentary, directed by Stacy Peralta, chronicles the birth of modern skateboarding in 1970s California. "Dogtown and Z-Boys" not only captures the evolution of a sport but also serves as a testament to the power of creativity and determination. The film's dynamic storytelling and vibrant visuals make it an engaging watch for children and young people.
Common sense media age recommendation: 15+
BBFC rating: 15
These feature documentaries serve as powerful tools for educating and inspiring children and young people. By combining entertainment with thought-provoking narratives, these films cover a diverse range of topics, from the impact of fast food to the wonders of the natural world. Whether it's learning about the importance of education, environmental sustainability, or the thrill of competition, these documentaries are sure to leave a lasting impression on young minds, sparking curiosity and encouraging a lifelong love for learning. So, grab some popcorn, gather the family, and embark on a journey of discovery with these enriching documentaries.
At Chocolate Films we encourage children and young people to find their voice using documentary. Get in touch to find out more about what we can do for your school or youth club. And if you live local to our base, check out what workshops are open to you.
