WordofMany

Documentaries

6 documentaries that show the power of the human spirit

By Dr. Evelyn Reed

Published: 15 Feb 2025

The Unexpected Gift of a Cracked Mug

You know, life's funny like that. Sometimes, the things that seem like setbacks—a spilled coffee, a missed bus, a cracked mug—can actually lead to something pretty incredible. I was recently reminded of this when my favorite mug, the one with the faded floral pattern, cracked right down the middle. Honestly, I was bummed. It wasn't just a mug; it held a thousand memories of early mornings, quiet moments, and comforting cups of tea. But then, clearing out the drawer, I stumbled upon a box of old photos, and suddenly, my cracked mug felt less like a loss and more like a catalyst for remembering all the good times. That's what sparked this post—exploring documentaries that showcase the incredible resilience and strength of the human spirit. What's a favorite memory you associate with a simple object?

cracked mug with flowers | Image: Supplied

1. Jiro Dreams of Sushi: A Masterclass in Perseverance

This documentary follows the life of Jiro Ono, an 85-year-old sushi chef widely considered one of the greatest in the world. It's not just about sushi; it's about dedication, precision, and the relentless pursuit of perfection. Jiro's story is a testament to the power of unwavering commitment—and shows how even seemingly small acts of dedication can lead to mastery. Watching him work, you feel inspired to pursue your own passions with that same focus and unwavering determination. What small thing are you going to focus on today to help reach your goals?

close-up shot of sushi | Image: Supplied

2. Free Solo: Conquering Fear and Reaching New Heights

Okay, I'll admit it – watching this documentary gave me palpitations! Alex Honnold's free solo climb of El Capitan is breathtaking and terrifying in equal measure. His feat is not just a display of physical prowess but a powerful story of pushing limits, managing fear, and facing challenges head-on. The film shows the incredible amount of dedication and planning that goes into such an ambitious task. For me, it highlighted the human capacity to overcome fear and achieve the seemingly impossible. What's one fear you could start to face today?

rock climber on El Capitan | Image: Supplied

3. Icarus: An Unintentional Journey into the Heart of Doping

This one is a wild ride. It starts as an investigation into performance-enhancing drugs in sports and spirals into a far bigger story about power, politics, and the lengths people go to to win. Icarus, while focusing on the dark side, inadvertently demonstrates human adaptability, resourcefulness, and tenacity. It's a reminder of how even when things go wrong, we can adapt, persevere, and maybe even uncover something amazing along the way. Have you ever faced a situation that seemed to go terribly wrong, only to lead to something better?

cyclist racing | Image: Supplied

4. My Octopus Teacher: An Unexpected Friendship

This documentary is unbelievably beautiful and emotional. The unlikely bond between a filmmaker and an octopus in South Africa will leave you spellbound. Beyond the stunning visuals, it's a poignant exploration of connection, empathy, and the deep interconnectedness of all living things. Watching this film, you'll feel a renewed sense of wonder about the natural world and the capacity for compassion, even between vastly different species. What's an unexpected connection you've made in your life?

octopus underwater | Image: Supplied

5. The Game Changers: Fueling the Human Body

Are you a meat-lover? Prepare to have your perspective challenged! This documentary explores the benefits of a plant-based diet, both for athletes and everyday people. The film highlights the power of the human body to adapt and thrive on a plant-based diet, dispelling many common myths. It's an inspiring film that shows how changing our habits—even seemingly difficult ones—can have a profound impact on our health, well-being, and the planet. What's one dietary change you could make that might improve your life?

varied selection of plant-based foods | Image: Supplied

6. Chef's Table: Stories of Culinary Passion

This Netflix series is a feast for the senses. Each episode profiles a different chef, showing the hard work, creativity, and resilience involved in achieving culinary greatness. It's not just about food; it's about passion, creativity, and the drive to make something beautiful and meaningful. It's an inspiration to follow your own creative passions and keep refining your craft. What's one creative endeavor you'd like to explore?