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It’s very Covid heavy, isn’t it? These days, I find myself adverse to the news. It’s too much, too often. We need to be informed, yes, but we also need a break, however temporary, from this virus. Documentaries have become a sort of tonic for me; a way to be informed on a myriad of current topics (which just so happen to be pandemic-free). Below are some newly released and recent favourites to get absorbed in.

Rising Phoenix

Rising Phoenix tells the extraordinary story of the Paralympic Games. From the rubble of World War II to the third biggest sporting event on the planet, the Paralympics sparked a global movement which continues to change the way the world thinks about disability, diversity and human potential. This one is a mesmerising watch. As a woman with a partial disability, this moved me to tears. The strength and extraordinary determination of these athletes truly knows no bounds.

Netflix

The Kingmaker

An extraordinary look into the controversial political career of Imelda Marcos. As the former first lady of the Philippines, Imelda Marcos is best known for her opulent lifestyle, but it was her behind-the-scenes influence of her husband’s presidency that rocketed her to the global political forefront. Behind every great man…

Sky Documentaries

(Un)Well

(Un)Well is a fascinating six-part docuseries that investigates controversial wellness fads. Each episode dives deep into trends and treatments that catch on like wildfire but that inspire both passionate support and deep scepticism. Topics include apitherapy, essential oils, breast milk, extreme fasting, ayahuasca, and tantric sex. It sheds light and some darkness on the industry that continues to grow and prosper.

Netflix

The Inventor: Out For Blood in Silicon Valley

As gripping as the Fyre Festival failure comes the rather unbelievable tale of Elizabeth Holmes, founder of a new invention that promised to revolutionise blood testing. She became the world's youngest self-made billionaire, heralded as the next Steve Jobs. She secured millions of investors capital without ever showing the world the details of her invention. Then, just two years later, her multibillion-dollar dream company came crashing down. Her trial is still upcoming and it provides a gripping look at the smoke and mirrors that can help build an empire.

Sky Documentaries

Dispatches: Secrets of Amazon

This isn’t new but is a true eye-opener. Given all the news that has come out about Amazon and its controversies, I’ve taken to really being mindful of how I do my online shopping – and this includes using Amazon. An undercover reporter spends four weeks at Amazon’s warehouses – it only scratches the surface of some of the issues but is a must-watch if you want to online shop more consciously. It gives a telling insight at how Amazon's glossy marketing campaign bears little resemblance to the reality in the warehouses.

Amazon Prime

Jennifer McShane, August 2020.

What have you watched when in need of a pandemic pause? Tell us in the comments below…