Documentary films are no longer the niche category they once were. In the last decade, the documentary genre has exploded into the mainstream, with documentary films turning into blockbuster successes, sparking national dialogues, and sometimes taking home high-profile accolades. Titles like *Tiger King*, *Making a Murderer*, and *13th* have captivated audiences just like any mainstream blockbuster. The growth of non-fiction films is one of the most exciting developments in cinema of the decade, and it looks like it’s here to stay.

One of the drivers of this movement is the growing appetite for stories from real life that are sometimes more intense than fiction. Film lovers are increasingly drawn to the honest, compelling stories that non-fiction films present. Whether it’s crime stories, planet-focused stories, or social issues, documentary features are capturing the moment, showcasing gripping, real-world stories that connect deeply with people on a deep emotional level. Documentary creators are also redefining form, using cutting-edge approaches and narrative methods to make documentaries as entertaining as their fiction-based films.

More than just entertainment, non-fiction films are becoming a powerful tool for change. Many of today’s most influential documentaries shed light on crucial movie industry matters, sparking movements and motivating people to act. Films like *An Inconvenient Truth* or *The Social Dilemma* have not only raised awareness but also prompted policy changes and regulatory reforms. In this new age of non-fiction cinema, documentaries aren’t just teaching us—they’re changing society one important film at a time.