Some documentaries are so compelling that you don’t want them to end. Fictional films can expand upon a documentary in unique and surprising ways, including scenes and people that didn’t make it into the original. Check out these docs that have inspired feature films:
“An American Family” (1973)
First debuting in 1973 over twelve episodes, viewers were introduced to the William C. Loud family and the dramatic life events that unfolded during seven months of documentary shooting. This DVD edition is a two hour compilation of the series’ best moments. The documentary series inspired the fictional film “Cinema Verite” released in 2011.
“Grey Gardens” (1975)
Portrait of the relationship between Edith Bouvier Beale and her grown daughter, Little Edie, once and aspiring actress in New York who left her career to care for her aging mother in their East Hampton home, and never left again. This documentary inspired the fictional film “Grey Gardens” released in 2009.
“The Times of Harvey Milk” (1984)
Documents the life, career, and assassination of Harvey Milk, the first openly gay person elected to public office in San Francisco. Examines Milk’s life leading up to his assassination and his successful efforts to politically represent San Francisco’s gay community. This documentary inspired the fictional film “Milk” released in 2008.
