Truth being stranger than fiction: that is a widely-known axiom. No author could certainly scribe a novel as weird and wild as the times we are in now. This is why we enjoy historical films and documentaries as part of our cultural diet. Features such as âDunkirkâ and âTitanicâ enthrall us even if you know the outcomes. (Note to reader: Donât look up the recent backlash of the latter; you WILL lose your mind from sheer anger.) Even now, there are some new entries out for our perusal.
HBO has had a wealth of docs for those interested in current affairs and true crime. âBully, Coward, Victim: The Life of Roy Cohnâ is a fascinating look into the life of one of most notorious figures in American history. The right hand man for Joseph McCarthy, Cohn was also a lawyer for Studio 54 and the Trump circle. This doc has the unique perspective as the director is the granddaughter of Ethel and Julius Rosenberg, whom Royâs life was inextricably tied to. âWelcome to Chechnyaâ tells the story the conditions of LGBT men and women in the Baltic country under leader Ramzan Kadyrov. Also âIâll Be Gone in the Darkâ takes a look at the late Michele McNamara and her research into the Golden State Killer. This six-part series, along with the others, are available on HBO GO as well.
Cinephiles have rejoiced at TCM for the presentations of music documentaries like âJazz on a Summerâs Dayâ and âDonât Look Back.â The latter of which concerns Bob Dylanâs 1965 concert tour of England, the time period where he released his most popular music. Fans who have purchased Dylanâs recent album âRough and Rowdy Waysâ would be particularly interested. âMy Journey Through French Cinemaâ takes a look at the late 50s and early 60s when France was at the height of experimental film styles that would later give rise the New Hollywood in the 1970s. Some these are available on the Watch TCM app as well.
And no one could forget about the juggernaut that is âHamilton.â The Tony Award-winning Broadway smash makes its way to Disney Plus. Lin-Manuel Miranda and co. tell the story of the founding of the country through the lens of this singular man through a mix of hip-hop, 60s Brit pop, RânâB and traditional show tunes. Some of the highlights include Christopher Jackson as George Washington, Phillipa Soo as Eliza Hamilton and Leslie Odom Jrâs complex portrayal of Aaron Burr. The drama and humor of Mirandaâs writing makes what would be a dry subject such a grand spectacle that must be seen. Happy Viewing!
