Fun
Frisky
Nostalgic
Intense
Adventurous
Choked Up
Curious
Romantic
Weird
I think it’s safe to say we’re a bit nerdy around here. Obsessing over your favorite shows and movies with fans who are equally invested is more than fun; it’s intoxicating. However, you don’t always have to be part of a fandom to appreciate its dramatics and dedication involved in uncovering the most plausible fan theories. I love learning from obsessive viewers, even when I’m only vaguely aware of what they’re talking about.
Thankfully for fans everywhere and appreciators of pop culture passion like myself, there are a lot of documentaries that embrace all of the craziness of fandoms. Below are some of the best documentaries available to stream that chronicle the fan theories, arguments, behind the scenes exclusives, and emotional journeys behind some of our favorite shows and movies. Whether you’re a hardcore Trekkie or consider yourself to be a comedy geek, there’s a fandom (and likely a documentary) out there for you.
‘The People vs. George Lucas’
Are you still bitter about those lackluster Star Wars prequels? That’s OK. Hopefully The Force Awakens and Rogue One are helping to fill that lightsaber-shaped hole in your heart. However, if you want to embrace the anger and truly geek out about your fanboy / fangirl disappointment, then you need to stream this funny doc. The People vs. George Lucas argues against Lucas’ hold on the franchise, incorporating fan films into interviews with filmmakers. It’s obsessive, intense, and perfect if you need to nerd rage.
'Beyond Clueless'
We all love teen movies, but some of us love teen rom coms more than others. Director Charlie Lyne is one of those people. This film is described as a journey into the mind, body, and soul of more than 200 classic teen movies. This documentary was funded on Kickstarter and premiered at SXSW 2014. If you want to see the tonal similarities between everything from 10 Things I hate About You and American Pie to Clueless and Jeepers Creepers, then you need to check out this trippy movie.
'Room 237'
Though it’s one of Stephen King’s most divisive adaptations, The Shining had the unique honor of combining one of the master of horror’s most terrifying stories with the directorial talents of Stanley Kubrick. However, this documentary argues, that Kubrick’s The Shining is even more unsettling than you originally thought. This documentary is all about crazy conspiracy theories and rabid fandom. Essentially, it’s a Reddit thread brought to life, making equal parts disturbing, hysterical, and fascinating. Stream it now.
'Spider-Man Tech'
If you left Captain America: Civil War pumped about the return of Spider-Man, this one is for you. More than most superheroes, audiences can’t seem to get enough of Peter Parker, but this documentary raises an important nerdy question: How feasible were Tobey Maguire’s (Spider-Man 2002) feats of strength compared to his relatively weak body? We have physics questions, and this doc, complete with interviews from Stan Lee, promises to deliver answers.
'Back in Time'
If the phrase “Biff’s Pleasure Paradise” means something to you, there’s a good chance you’re a bit of a Back to the Future fanatic. Celebrate this genre-defining comedy by watching a documentary that explores its deep cultural impact. Featuring interviews from Robert Zemeckis, Steven Spielberg, Michael J. Fox, and Christopher Lloyd, this is the perfect fandom-fueled binge for any aspiring time travelers. Roads? Where you’re going, you don’t need roads.
'Saturday Night'
James Franco’s exploration of Saturday Night Live is an interesting one not just because of its exclusive access but because of its tone. Filmed over the course of six days, the film was originally a class assignment at New York University. The documentary follows the course of one week on SNL, from the Monday morning pitch meeting to the live show. However, the coolest part is knowing that this film comes from a celebrity fan boy.
'Unlocking Sherlock'
Do you feel a little faint every time you see Benedict Cumberbatch or Martin Freeman? This documentary promises to fulfill all of your obsessive Sherlock fandom needs. From Steven Moffat’s revelation that creating Sherlock is the actualization of a lifelong dream to the history of this beloved literary hero, consider this your hour-long cheat sheet to all things Sherlock Holmes.
'Harmontown'
There are some people who accrue rabid fan followings for seemingly no explanation. Dan Harmon, the creator of Community and co-creator of Rick and Morty, is definitely one of them. Harmontown follows the sitcom writer and podcaster as he’s on the road during a 20-city tour. If you’re a fan of Harmon’s it’s definitely worth it to see the brilliant and magnetic force behind your favorite shows.
'Mudbloods'
Look — I’m still depressed about my lack of a Hogwarts letter too. However, some people take their sorrow and wallow, and some use that depression to soar. That’s what the Harry Potter fans in Mudbloods do … sort of. Mudbloods follows an underdog team competing in the world of UCLA Quidditch. Yes, this is a thing, and it looks surprisingly exhausting. Stream now and sign up for your local league later.
'Trek Nation'
If thinking about Stark Trek still makes you teary-eyed, then this documentary was made with you in mind. Trek Nation explores how one of the most powerful sci-fi franchises to ever exist has helped fans, artists, and celebrities. There are a lot of Trekkie documentaries out there, but this exploration into the emotional impact of the series is one of the best.
Photos: Everett Collection, Hulu, Netflix
