The Highest Grossing Documentaries Ever, Ranked
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A documentary is a non-fictional film or video production that aims to capture and present reality. It is a genre of filmmaking that typically focuses on actual events, people, places, or issues. They can cover a variety of themes, such as historical events, societal concerns, scientific breakthroughs, biographies, nature, sports, and many more. Among the celebrities featured in documentaries are Elton John, Madonna, and Bill Russell. Documentaries often employ interviews, archival footage, reenactments, narration, and expert commentary to present their subjects. Documentaries generate a lot of money because they are exhibited in theaters, on television, streamed online, or disseminated through other media.
This Is It (Michael Jackson) - $261.2 Million
The movie shows the backstage planning and practice sessions for the This Is It concert series, which was supposed to be Michael Jackson's return. Directed by Kenny Ortega, the documentary provides a glimpse into the final days of Jackson's life as he prepared for the highly anticipated concert series scheduled to take place at The O2 Arena in London. The film includes footage from Jackson's rehearsals, demonstrating his immense talent, creativity, and meticulous attention to detail in producing his performances.
Fahrenheit 9/11 - $222.4 Million
Fahrenheit 9/11 is a documentary directed by Michael Moore and released in 2004. The film looks at the presidency of George W. Bush and the events surrounding his presidential election, and the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 attacks. The film takes a critical stance towards the Bush administration and its policies. It seeks to raise concerns about the reasons for the invasion of Iraq and how the war affected the American people and the rest of the world.
Space Station 3D - $128 Million
Space Station 3D is an IMAX documentary film released in 2002. It was directed by Toni Myers and narrated by Tom Cruise. Space Station 3D demonstrates the building and functioning of the International Space Station (ISS), giving visitors an immersive look at life and work onboard the space station. The documentary provides an excellent adventure into the space domain and the incredible endeavor of human space exploration.
Everest(1998) - $128 Million
Via Wikimedia CommonsEverest (1998) is a documentary directed by David Breashears, a renowned mountaineer and filmmaker. The documentary provides a gripping account of the events that unfolded during the 1996 Everest climb, including the severe storm that caught climbers off-guard and resulted in multiple fatalities. It offers a rugged and insightful look into the challenges faced by mountaineers on Everest and the risks associated with high-altitude climbing.
March of the Penguins - $127 Million
March of the Penguins is a 2005 documentary directed by Luc Jacquet. The movie examines the yearly migration of Emperor penguins through Antarctica, emphasizing their nesting and breeding practices. The documentary garnered widespread acclaim for its stunning cinematography and the captivating portrayal of the penguins' lives. It successfully brought attention to the fascinating world of these resilient creatures and the environmental challenges they face.
Under the Sea 3D - $112 Million
Under the Sea 3D is a 2009 documentary film directed by Howard Hall starring Johnny Depp and Kate Winslet. The film takes viewers on an immersive journey beneath the ocean's surface, exploring the diverse and vibrant marine ecosystems worldwide. The 3D documentary features a variety of aquatic life, including beautiful animals like sharks, dolphins, and sea turtles, as well as vibrant coral reefs. It is a visually spectacular and informative experience that allows viewers to observe the beauty and complexities of underwater habitats. Under the Sea 3D was a critical and commercial success grossing $112 Million.
Planet Earth - $108 Million
Planet Earth is a documentary film directed by Alastair Fothergill and Mark Linfield, released in 2007. This film offers a riveting examination of the planet's unique animals and ecosystems. Planet Earth takes viewers on a visually stunning journey across various continents, showcasing breathtaking landscapes and the incredible creatures that inhabit them. The film focuses on the migration patterns and struggles for survival of different species, highlighting the interconnection of life on Earth. Planet Earth was a commercial smash and received excellent reviews, grossing $108 million.
Justin Bieber:(Never Say Never) - $99 Million
This documentary concert film was directed by Jon M. Chu and released in 2011. The documentary offers a close-up, behind-the-scenes look at Justin Bieber's life and ascend to fame. The film follows Bieber's journey from his humble beginnings as a young street performer in Stratford, Ontario, to becoming a global superstar. It highlights his first musical love, his use of social media sites like YouTube to achieve recognition and his entry into the mainstream music industry. The documentary was a commercial success, cementing Justin Bieber's place as one of his generation's most recognized pop singers.
Source: Boxofficemojo, The Wrap, The-Numbers
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