Documentaries are a unique breed of filmmaking that can capture the essence of a subject or movement like no other medium. As we hurtle headlong into an increasingly complex world, it's little wonder that 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated documentary years in recent memory.
Among those eagerly-awaited docs is Alex Gibney's long-rumored exploration of Elon Musk, one of the most influential figures of our time. The renowned director has a proven track record when it comes to tackling the complex and often contentious world of big business, as evidenced by his work on films like "Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room" and "Elizabeth Holmes". Given the controversies swirling around Musk, it's hard not to wonder what Gibney will make of him.
Gibney has stated that he aims to deliver a "definitive and unvarnished examination" of Elon Musk, using interviews with those who have worked alongside him. With Bleecker Street acquiring the rights for a theatrical release in the US at some point this year, fans are eagerly awaiting any glimpse into what this documentary may hold.
Another highly-anticipated doc is "Knife: The Attempted Murder of Salman Rushdie", an adaptation of the author's bestselling memoir by acclaimed filmmaker Alex Gibney. This film promises to shed light on the onstage assassination attempt that left Rushdie permanently scarred, combining previously unseen footage with his wife Rachel Eliza Griffiths' cameras and excerpts from his work.
While some may argue that documentary-making has become too safe in recent years, the likes of Gibney and others continue to push boundaries and explore topics that might otherwise go unexamined.
On the music front, one must look no further than Billie Eilish: Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour (Live in 3D). Filmed by James Cameron, this concert film promises an unparalleled viewing experience – but will it live up to its lofty billing?
For those who have followed Questlove's journey as a director, the release of his new film on Earth, Wind & Fire is much-anticipated news. The project, which includes exclusive access to the band's archive materials, marks another significant milestone in the career of this talented filmmaker.
But what of "Give Me the Ball!", a documentary exploring the remarkable life and career of Billie Jean King? Liz Garbus and Elizabeth Wolff are directing an exclusive interview-heavy exploration of the tennis legend's pivotal wins on and off the court, including her historic 1973 Battle of the Sexes match against Bobby Riggs.
On more somber note, "American Doctor" delves into a timely topic that deserves our attention: the human cost of conflict in Gaza. This film documents the experiences of three American physicians called to the besieged territory by their conscience, providing a searing reminder of the need for collective action on this critical issue.
Lastly, fans of documentary enthusiasts John Wilson will be thrilled with news that Gibney's "The History of Concrete" is set to premiere at Sundance. Combining footage from archival materials and re-enactments, this examination promises an intimate look into a vital topic few would have thought to cover.
These are just a few examples of the many compelling documentaries on the horizon for 2026.
Among those eagerly-awaited docs is Alex Gibney's long-rumored exploration of Elon Musk, one of the most influential figures of our time. The renowned director has a proven track record when it comes to tackling the complex and often contentious world of big business, as evidenced by his work on films like "Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room" and "Elizabeth Holmes". Given the controversies swirling around Musk, it's hard not to wonder what Gibney will make of him.
Gibney has stated that he aims to deliver a "definitive and unvarnished examination" of Elon Musk, using interviews with those who have worked alongside him. With Bleecker Street acquiring the rights for a theatrical release in the US at some point this year, fans are eagerly awaiting any glimpse into what this documentary may hold.
Another highly-anticipated doc is "Knife: The Attempted Murder of Salman Rushdie", an adaptation of the author's bestselling memoir by acclaimed filmmaker Alex Gibney. This film promises to shed light on the onstage assassination attempt that left Rushdie permanently scarred, combining previously unseen footage with his wife Rachel Eliza Griffiths' cameras and excerpts from his work.
While some may argue that documentary-making has become too safe in recent years, the likes of Gibney and others continue to push boundaries and explore topics that might otherwise go unexamined.
On the music front, one must look no further than Billie Eilish: Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour (Live in 3D). Filmed by James Cameron, this concert film promises an unparalleled viewing experience – but will it live up to its lofty billing?
For those who have followed Questlove's journey as a director, the release of his new film on Earth, Wind & Fire is much-anticipated news. The project, which includes exclusive access to the band's archive materials, marks another significant milestone in the career of this talented filmmaker.
But what of "Give Me the Ball!", a documentary exploring the remarkable life and career of Billie Jean King? Liz Garbus and Elizabeth Wolff are directing an exclusive interview-heavy exploration of the tennis legend's pivotal wins on and off the court, including her historic 1973 Battle of the Sexes match against Bobby Riggs.
On more somber note, "American Doctor" delves into a timely topic that deserves our attention: the human cost of conflict in Gaza. This film documents the experiences of three American physicians called to the besieged territory by their conscience, providing a searing reminder of the need for collective action on this critical issue.
Lastly, fans of documentary enthusiasts John Wilson will be thrilled with news that Gibney's "The History of Concrete" is set to premiere at Sundance. Combining footage from archival materials and re-enactments, this examination promises an intimate look into a vital topic few would have thought to cover.
These are just a few examples of the many compelling documentaries on the horizon for 2026.
What's with all these great docs on women like Billie Jean King and Elizabeth Holmes? It's about time we heard more of their stories. 
Can't wait for "The History of Concrete" too... never thought I'd be fascinated by concrete, but here I am 
I'm getting hyped for Alex Gibney's doc on Elon Musk, but can we talk about how some of these docs are becoming way too formulaic? Like Billie Eilish: Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour (Live in 3D) is just a concert film... where's the depth? 
I need more than just live footage to be convinced.
. It's like they're going to give us a glimpse into some really important and interesting stuff. I mean, Elon Musk is such a big deal, it'll be crazy to see what Alex Gibney makes of him 
. And Billie Eilish: Hit Me Hard and Soft sounds like it's gonna be EPIC 
! But also, "American Doctor" hitting so close to home right now... my heart goes out to the docs who are risking everything to help those in need 
. Can't wait for all these documentaries to come out!
. Like, Elon Musk is one of those guys... has a huge impact, but also controversy surrounding him, right? And Gibney's doc might just shed some light on that 
. But what does it say about us as a society when we're so fascinated by these figures and their stories? Are we more interested in understanding the 'why' behind their actions or the spectacle of them being on screen? 
. But what about all the other women who paved the way for her? Are we just gonna keep celebrating the achievements of a few trailblazers without acknowledging the collective effort that made them possible? 
.
! i'm low-key hyped for alex gibney's elon musk docu - that guy always brings the heat when it comes to exposin' the truth. and billie eilish: hit me hard & soft? james cameron doin' his thang, but is it gonna be as lit as everyone says? 
and then there's billie jean king doc, i mean who doesnt love a good underdog story? 
hope its as impactful as american doctor seems like 2026 is gonna be an amazing year for docs 
gotta check out knife: the attempted murder... but why james cameron? wasn't billie eilish's concert film already live-streamed on youtube? 