Documentaries of 2016

Seems like art really does imitate life because 2016 was the year of documentaries. Recently I've had a keen interest in the genre. Here are some of my current favorites.

Weiner (Showtime)
Weiner follows controversial congressman Anthony Weiner as he goes through, not one, but two sex scandals while running for public office. Twitter-d**k pics and bulges no one intended to see are exposed across the internet as Weiner runs for NY Mayor and also battles multiple accusations of being unfaithful to his wife, Huma Adedin, Hillary Clinton's aide. 

Amanda Knox (Netflix)
This Netflix Original follows American exchange student Amanda Knox as she describes, in her own words, how she was convicted of murdering her roommate while studying abroad in Italy in 2007. Is she guilty or innocent? You decide after watching--no one is deciding for you.

13th (Netflix)
This doc is definitely going to get your blood boiling. 13th takes an in-depth look into the corrupt and racist U.S. prison system. Slavery may have been abolished many years ago, but 13th will show you the modern-day equivalent.

Tony Robbins: I Am Not Your Guru (Netflix)
An in-depth look into Tony Robbin's cult-like conference that changes millions of lives a year. His events costs hundreds of dollars, are held all across the world, and sold out every time. Take an inside look into one of his sessions as he guides people from despair to triumph. You might learn a thing or two about yourself too. 

The Cuba Libre Story (Netflix)
A TV-mini series that takes you through the history of Cuba from it's 400 year old rule under Spain to it's place under America's control in the 21st century. 

Honor Diaries LA Premiere

This past week I had the pleasure of attending the LA premiere of Honor Diaries at the Museum of Tolerance. This documentary brings to light the popular yet horrifying act of  'honor violence' that women and girls face around the world. Nine women come together to tell their stories and difficult journey as women's rights advocates, specifically within Muslim societies. These heroic women hail from different parts of the world and professional backgrounds but have one common message, the goal to end the inequality and injustices that women are facing globally.

Through a compilation of interviews, round table discussions, and news stories we learn about the unfortunate mentality the Muslim world carries about the 'honor' women are expected to uphold. The film discusses such horrible atrocities like female genital mutilation and honor killings. What I found most gripping and appalling is the fact that these acts of female oppression are not only occurring in the Middle East but in the United States, Canada, and Britain. Westernized societies have turned a blind eye to the persecution of women in the name of culture and religion. Audiences of all backgrounds and genders need to see Honor Diaries in order to not only become educated, but learn how to speak up against such dangerous and morally unjust acts.

Alex Traiman, the producer and writer, spoke briefly before the screening and his words encompassed the overall message: "More than a movie, Honor Diaries is a movement meant to inspire viewers to learn more about issues facing women in Muslim-majority societies, and to act for change."

To find out more about the film or to attend/host a screening visit:
http://www.honordiaries.com/host-a-screening/

Q&A with three of the stars: Zainab Khan, Raquel Saraswati, and Nazie Eftekhari (left to right)

Raquel Saraswati, one of the stars of Honor Diaries

Mitt: A Netflix Original

This past week Netflix premiered an original documentary entitled "Mitt" about presidential candidate Mitt Romney's campaign. The film follows Romney behind the scenes during both his 2008 run for the presidency and his most recent campaign in 2012. 

While at times interesting and shedding new light on the Massachusetts governor, the film didn't do it for me. In fact, it was difficult to watch just like his actual campaign. With moments of forced emotion and awkward prayer sessions in campaign hotel rooms, Romney had a difficult time connecting to the average American. The first half follows his attempt at the presidency in 2008 during the primaries, which he lost to John McCain. Then half way through we jump forward to 2012 when he went head-to-head with President Obama.

Interestingly, it was nice to see the support behind the man. Romney had his family very close to him during the campaigns both as emotional support and consultants. Romney's five sons were very involved in all aspects of his campaign and helped him through the highs and lows. Although he may come off cold and unrelatable at times, Romney is a family man who really cares about his wife, children, and 18 grandchildren.

I'm usually a big fan of political films and documentaries, but "Mitt" lost my vote. I didn't see anything I hadn't seen during the campaign news coverage. Romney's political future looks limited, as least for now. Seems like he'll stick with what he knows best, the private sector as a business man.

SKIP IT!