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In the mood for continued learning? These three bookish documentaries were all released within the past year and are well worth the watch. While I didn’t pick them with a theme in mind, they all share an underlying message of hope in difficult moments. May they fascinate you and even kindle hope in your own life, if you need it.
I’ve also included a book recommendation to go with each one. You don’t need to read the recommendation first, but they’ll help you continue your exploration if you find yourself thinking about the documentary after you have finished it.
I’d also be remiss not to mention the 2025 documentary Orwell: 2 + 2 = 5, directed by Haitian filmmaker Raoul Peck, about the continued relevance of George Orwell’s 1984. It’s not streaming for free on any platform, but you can purchase it for about $6 on many of them (including YouTube and Apple TV).
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Come See Me in the Good Light
Come See Me in the Good Light focuses on the final years of poet-activist Andrea Gibson, who was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2021. By their side is their wife, writer Megan Falley, as they face unanswerable questions about mortality and their future.
Directed by: Ryan White
Streaming on: Apple TV
Also read: You Better Be Lightning by Andrea Gibson
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Free for All: The Public Library
Famous Last Words: Dr. Jane Goodall
This interview with celebrated primatologist and author Dr. Jane Goodall is the first in the Famous Last Words series. Each installment is released posthumously, and includes a closing segment where the interviewer steps out and allows the subject time to share their final message.
Directed by: Brad Falchuk
Streaming on: Netflix
Also read: The Book of Hope: A Survival Guide for Trying Times by Dr. Jane Goodall
Need more series to get you through winter (and give you ideas for what to read next)? Try The Best Book Adaptations to Stream Right Now, like Survival of the Thickest and Rez Ball, both of which are available on Netflix.