Featured MEdia
Supply Chains

For buyers looking to acquire compelling and engaging documentaries in 2024, understanding key trends and their relevance to current events is crucial. We tracked 5 trends to focus on. These are tied to contemporary issues and interests:

1. Cultural Heritage and Historical Revelations

In a world grappling with the legacy of colonialism and the importance of cultural identity, documentaries exploring the repatriation of cultural artifacts and significant historical events resonate deeply. The ongoing debates over historical justice and cultural restitution, such as those seen in ongoing conflicts around the globe, make these stories timely and impactful.

2. Personal and Social Struggles

Platforms like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok provide spaces for people to share their stories, find communities, and support each other. These platforms amplify voices and struggles that might have been unheard otherwise. With increased global awareness of social injustices, documentaries that delve into individual and communal challenges are highly relevant. These stories showcase personal quests for happiness, investigations into social injustices, and the environmental impact on livelihoods, reflecting the resilience and courage seen in today’s headlines.

3. Music and Cultural Movements

Many artists are now actively participating in the production of their documentaries, providing authentic insights and unprecedented access to their lives and creative processes. Documentaries focusing on the origins and impact of various musical genres are also proving to be particularly engaging. Narratives documenting how music has driven cultural and social movements are appealing to audiences who are eager to reconnect with live music and explore the rich history behind their favourite genres.

4. Environmental and Scientific Exploration

With increasing awareness of climate change and its effects, and as people plan summer holidays that often involve nature and wildlife, documentaries exploring natural wonders and environmental resilience are more pertinent than ever. These titles take a look at challenges posed by climate change, offering breathtaking visuals and compelling narratives about the natural world.

5. Political and Social Commentary

In a year marked by significant political upheaval and social movements, from wars to women’s rights issues globally, documentaries that tackle contemporary issues such as religious extremism, censorship, and women’s rights are gaining more traction than before. Documentaries reflecting on modern societal challenges and providing critical commentary on the pressing issues of our time resonate deeply with all demographies. Thought-provoking content provides a platform for meaningful dialogue and impactful change. Take, for example, the latest ITV documentary, Mr. Bates vs. The Post Office.