On a notable Tuesday, the Critics Choice Association unveiled the nominations for the Tenth Annual Critics Choice Documentary Awards (CCDA), celebrating the pinnacle of documentary filmmaking from the past year. This year’s nominations reflect an impressive range of topics and storytelling styles, showcasing how documentary cinema continues to evolve and resonate with contemporary audiences.
The nominated works include National Geographic’s “Ocean with David Attenborough,” which not only highlights the intricate beauty of Earth’s oceans but also serves as a call to action for their preservation. The film is a testament to Attenborough’s decades of dedication to environmental issues, drawing on a lifetime of experience to elucidate the critical state of our aquatic ecosystems. It has been nominated for Best Science/Nature Documentary and Best Cinematography, with accolades going to cinematographers Toby Strong and Doug Anderson. Streaming now on Disney+, this documentary is a vital resource for understanding the interconnectedness of our planet’s waters.
Another standout from National Geographic is “The Last Rhinos: A New Hope,” which portrays the urgent efforts to save the Northern White Rhino from imminent extinction. By attempting to create the world’s first surrogate rhino pregnancy, this documentary not only educates viewers about wildlife conservation but also underscores the innovative approaches scientists are taking in the face of ecological crisis. It is also nominated for Best Science/Nature Documentary and available for streaming on both Disney+ and Hulu.
In the realm of biographical storytelling, “Love + War” offers an intimate look at photographer Lynsey Addario, whose powerful images have documented the harsh realities of war. This film, nominated for Best Biographical Documentary and Best Score, invites audiences to reflect on the personal risks and moral dilemmas faced by journalists in conflict zones. The haunting score by Claudia Sarne further enhances the emotional weight of Addario’s journey, making it a compelling watch for those interested in the interplay between art and advocacy.
The documentary series “Hurricane Katrina: Race Against Time” revisits the catastrophic events of 2005, providing a comprehensive analysis of the disaster’s long-lasting social and political implications. With nominations for Best Historical Documentary and Best Limited Documentary Series, this five-part series serves as a poignant reminder of the systemic issues exacerbated by such natural disasters, streaming on Disney+ and Hulu.
In a different vein, “Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller” digs deep into the shadowy networks of global trafficking and informal markets. Now entering its fifth season, this National Geographic series is nominated for Best Ongoing Documentary Series and continues to shed light on the complex realities behind illicit trades, showcasing the need for informed discussions around these pressing issues.
Hulu’s “Sly Lives! (aka The Burden of Black Genius),” directed by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, explores the life and legacy of Sly and the Family Stone, earning a nomination for Best Music Documentary. This film not only celebrates the musical innovations of the iconic band but also addresses the broader themes of racial identity and artistic expression, further enriching the narrative of American music history.
Sports documentaries also shine brightly at this year’s awards, with ESPN leading the charge. Nominations for Best Sports Documentary include “Big Dreams: Little League World Series 2024,” “Southpaw: The Life and Legacy of Jim Abbott,” and “Full Court Press,” each capturing unique narratives within the world of athletics. These films highlight the inspirational stories of perseverance and triumph, emphasizing the cultural significance of sports in shaping personal and communal identities.
The legacy of documentary filmmaking is also honored this year with the Critics Choice Impact Award being bestowed upon legendary documentarian Ken Burns, a figure synonymous with storytelling excellence. The Pennebaker Award will recognize filmmakers Heidi Ewing and Rachel Grady, acknowledging their contributions to the genre.
The winners of this prestigious celebration will be revealed on November 9 at The Edison Ballroom in Manhattan, with the ceremony livestreamed across various platforms, ensuring that audiences everywhere can partake in this celebration of documentary artistry. As the landscape of documentary filmmaking continues to diversify and deepen, the nominations this year are a testament to the power of stories to educate, inspire, and provoke critical conversations about our world.
