The Soul Is Greater Than the World (1985)

(6.3) based on 7 votes
A documentary about Swedish Discus champion Ricky Bruch as he prepares for the 1984 Olympics. The film highlights Bruch's obsessive behavior regarding his training and preparations. Facing difficulties with the Swedish Olympic Committee, Bruch is denied the right to compete in the Olympic Games. Bent on revenge, he trains like an animal and competes in smaller competitions, ultimately throwing his career-best 71.26 meters (233 feet, 9 inches). Proving to himself and the world that he is the greatest, Ricky's throw would have won the 1984 Olympics by nearly 5 meters.
Directors
Release Date
Mar 14, 1985
Runtime
01h 45m
Genre
Available in streaming on

A documentary about Swedish Discus champion Ricky Bruch as he prepares for the 1984 Olympics. The film highlights Bruch's obsessive behavior regarding his training and preparations. Facing difficulties with the Swedish Olympic Committee, Bruch is denied the right to compete in the Olympic Games. Bent on revenge, he trains like an animal and competes in smaller competitions, ultimately throwing his career-best 71.26 meters (233 feet, 9 inches). Proving to himself and the world that he is the greatest, Ricky's throw would have won the 1984 Olympics by nearly 5 meters.

Movies like The Soul Is Greater Than the World

Thomas Hart Benton

Thomas Hart Benton's paintings were energetic and uncompromising. Today his works are in museums, but Benton hung them in saloons for ordinary people to appreciate.
Search similar movies
7.5
Thomas+Hart+Benton
Thomas Hart Benton

1989

Search similar movies
Olympia: Part One – Festival of the Nations

Commissioned to make a propaganda film about the 1936 Olympic Games in Germany, director Leni Riefenstahl created a celebration of the human form. This first half of her two-part film opens with a renowned introduction that compares modern Olympians to classical Greek heroes, then goes on to provide thrilling in-the-moment coverage of some of the games' most celebrated moments, including African-American athlete Jesse Owens winning a then-unprecedented four gold medals.
Search similar movies
6.9
Olympia%3A+Part+One+%E2%80%93+Festival+of+the+Nations
Olympia: Part One – Festival of the Nations

1938

Search similar movies
Olympia: Part Two – Festival of Beauty

Commissioned to make a propaganda film about the 1936 Olympic Games in Germany, director Leni Riefenstahl created a celebration of the human form. Where the two-part epic's first half, Festival of the Nations, focused on the international aspects of the 1936 Olympic Games held in Berlin, part two, The Festival of Beauty, concentrates on individual athletes such as equestrians, gymnasts, and swimmers, climaxing with American Glenn Morris' performance in the decathalon and the games' majestic closing ceremonies.
Search similar movies
6.7
Olympia%3A+Part+Two+%E2%80%93+Festival+of+Beauty
Olympia: Part Two – Festival of Beauty

1938

Search similar movies
The House That Rob Built

Pioneering basketball coach Rob Selvig leads Montana's Lady Griz to success, building a legacy that went beyond the game.
Search similar movies
The+House+That+Rob+Built
The House That Rob Built

2021

Search similar movies
Grizzly Man

Werner Herzog's documentary film about the "Grizzly Man" Timothy Treadwell and what the thirteen summers in a National Park in Alaska were like in one man's attempt to protect the grizzly bears. The film is full of unique images and a look into the spirit of a man who sacrificed himself for nature.
Search similar movies
7.5
Grizzly+Man
Grizzly Man

2005

Search similar movies
Germany: A Summer's Fairytale

A documentary of the German national soccer team’s 2006 World Cup experience that changed the face of modern Germany.
Search similar movies
6.8
Germany%3A+A+Summer%27s+Fairytale
Germany: A Summer's Fairytale

2006

Search similar movies
Persona: The Dark Truth Behind Personality Tests

A documentary exploring the history and growing dangers surrounding the seemingly innocuous Myers–Briggs personality test.
Search similar movies
5.6
Persona%3A+The+Dark+Truth+Behind+Personality+Tests
Persona: The Dark Truth Behind Personality Tests

2021

Search similar movies
Hi, How Are You Daniel Johnston?

Daniel Johnston stars in this psychedelic short film about an aging musician coming to terms with the dreams of yesteryear.
Search similar movies
7.3
Hi%2C+How+Are+You+Daniel+Johnston%3F
Hi, How Are You Daniel Johnston?

2015

Search similar movies
The Man Who Was Too Free

A documentary about Boris Nemtsov, a prominent figure of Russian political opposition and an outspoken critic of Vladimir Putin. Nemtsov was murdered in Moscow in February of 2015.
Search similar movies
6.5
The+Man+Who+Was+Too+Free
The Man Who Was Too Free

2017

Search similar movies
A Life for Movies: Lotte Eisner

Born in Berlin in 1896, Lotte Eisner became famous for her passionate involvement in the world of both German and French cinema. In 1936, together with Henri Langlois, she founded the Cinémathèque Française with the goal of saving from destruction films, costumes, sets, posters, and other treasures of the 7th Art. A Jew exiled in Paris, she became a pillar of the capital's cultural scene, where she promoted German cinema.
Search similar movies
8.5
A+Life+for+Movies%3A+Lotte+Eisner
A Life for Movies: Lotte Eisner

2021

Search similar movies
Becoming Warren Buffett

The story of the evolution of a boy from Nebraska who became one of the most respected men in the world, and the heroes who helped guide him along the way. By allowing access to his life and never-before-released home videos, Buffett offers a glimpse into his unique mind to help us understand what is truly important when money no longer has meaning.
Search similar movies
7.2
Becoming+Warren+Buffett
Becoming Warren Buffett

2017

Search similar movies
All About Ann: Governor Richards of the Lone Star State

All About Ann celebrates the achievements of larger-than-life Ann Richards, who became the first elected female governor of Texas. Her cool demeanor, acid wit, and passion for social inclusivity made her one of the most powerful and progressive governors in U.S. history, a liberal democrat intent on building “the new Texas.” But, when the 1994 election begins, Richards is faced with her toughest challenge yet, as an increasingly conservative majority turn towards a new, pro-business candidate: George W. Bush.
Search similar movies
7.6
All+About+Ann%3A+Governor+Richards+of+the+Lone+Star+State
All About Ann: Governor Richards of the Lone Star State

2014

Search similar movies
Dr. Jack & Mr. Nicholson

In a Hollywood career spanning more than 50 years and with 60 movie credits to his name, Jack Nicholson has conquered everyone, becoming the archetypal star who lives according to his own rules. Unmoved by critical approval and conventions he remains the most elusive of American actors.
Search similar movies
6.7
Dr.+Jack+%26+Mr.+Nicholson
Dr. Jack & Mr. Nicholson

2019

Search similar movies
Such a Resounding Silence

Through this documentary, Emmanuelle Béart aims to uncover the truth about incest. The actress, accompanied by director Anastasia Mikova, breaks her silence and confronts her reality with that of others, shedding light on a taboo subject.
Search similar movies
Such+a+Resounding+Silence
Such a Resounding Silence

2024

Search similar movies
Pantani: The Accidental Death of a Cyclist

In 1998 Marco Pantani, the most flamboyant and popular cyclist of his era, won both the Tour de France and Giro d'Italia, a titanic feat of physical and mental endurance that no rider has repeated since. He was a hero to millions, the saviour of cycling following the doping scandals which threatened to destroy the sport. However, less than six years later, aged just 34, he died alone, in a cheap hotel room, from acute cocaine poisoning. He had been an addict for five years. This is the story of the tragic battles fought by the most important Italian cyclist of his generation; man verses mountain, athlete verses addiction, Marco Pantani verses himself.
Search similar movies
6.9
Pantani%3A+The+Accidental+Death+of+a+Cyclist
Pantani: The Accidental Death of a Cyclist

2014

Search similar movies
Gonzo: The Life and Work of Dr. Hunter S. Thompson

Fueled by a raging libido, Wild Turkey, and superhuman doses of drugs, Thompson was a true "free lance, " goring sacred cows with impunity, hilarity, and a steel-eyed conviction for writing wrongs. Focusing on the good doctor's heyday, 1965 to 1975, the film includes clips of never-before-seen (nor heard) home movies, audiotapes, and passages from unpublished manuscripts.
Search similar movies
6.9
Gonzo%3A+The+Life+and+Work+of+Dr.+Hunter+S.+Thompson
Gonzo: The Life and Work of Dr. Hunter S. Thompson

2008

Search similar movies
I Am Heath Ledger

The life and career of an actor, artist, and icon. His own journey through his own camera.
Search similar movies
7.4
I+Am+Heath+Ledger
I Am Heath Ledger

2017

Search similar movies
An Honest Liar

An Honest Liar tells the incredible story of the world-famous magician, escape artist, and world-renowned enemy of deception, James 'The Amazing' Randi. The film brings to life Randi's intricate investigations that publicly exposed psychics, faith healers, and con-artists with quasi-religious fervor. A master deceiver who came out of the closet at the age of 81, Randi created fictional characters, fake psychics, and even turned his partner of 25 years, Jose Alvarez, into a sham guru names Carlos.
Search similar movies
7.1
An+Honest+Liar
An Honest Liar

2014

Search similar movies
Zidane: A 21st Century Portrait

Halfway between a sports documentary and an conceptual art installation, "Zidane" consists in a full-length soccer game (Real Madrid vs. Villareal, April 23, 2005) entirely filmed from the perspective of soccer superstar Zinedine Zidane.
Search similar movies
5.8
Zidane%3A+A+21st+Century+Portrait
Zidane: A 21st Century Portrait

2006

Search similar movies
Sport in America: Our Defining Stories

Athletes and fans explore the impact of sports on the lives of Americans.
Search similar movies
8.0
Sport+in+America%3A+Our+Defining+Stories
Sport in America: Our Defining Stories

2013

Search similar movies
I’m Not a Slut, I’m a Journalist

More than twenty sports journalists – working mainly on television (BeIN Sports, RMC Sport, France Télévisions, Canal+, TF1) but not only (L'Équipe, Radio France) – testify to the anger, despondency and helplessness they felt when they had to endure the “Yucky jokes”, the « culture de boy’s club » and degrading insults on social networks, while at the same time the presence of women in these programs and in the press has increased. Without forgetting the misogynistic comments, the heaps of small sentences on the physique or the competence, the sexual innuendos… until the moral or sexual harassment.
Search similar movies
7.6
I%E2%80%99m+Not+a+Slut%2C+I%E2%80%99m+a+Journalist
I’m Not a Slut, I’m a Journalist

2021

Search similar movies
I Am a Dancer

Documentary about the dancer Rudolf Nureyev.
Search similar movies
6.0
I+Am+a+Dancer
I Am a Dancer

1972

Search similar movies
The Look of Silence

An optician grapples with the Indonesian mass killings of 1965-1966, during which his older brother was exterminated.
Search similar movies
7.8
The+Look+of+Silence
The Look of Silence

2014

Search similar movies
Raphael: The Lord of the Arts

Raphael: The Lord of the Arts is a documentary about the 15th century Italian Renaissance painter Raphael Sanzio.
Search similar movies
7.7
Raphael%3A+The+Lord+of+the+Arts
Raphael: The Lord of the Arts

2017

Search similar movies
Florida Panthers' 2024 Stanley Cup Championship Film

The Florida Panthers capped their 30th NHL season by winning their first Stanley Cup, defeating the Edmonton Oilers in Florida in a suspenseful seven-game series. Produced by NHL Productions, the two-hour film includes outstanding highlights from the Panthers’ season, insights from key players including captain Aleksander Barkov, heroic goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky and star forward Matthew Tkachuk, and exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, giving fans a deeper look at the Stanley Cup Champion team.
Search similar movies
10.0
Florida+Panthers%27+2024+Stanley+Cup+Championship+Film
Florida Panthers' 2024 Stanley Cup Championship Film

2024

Search similar movies
Sapporo Winter Olympics

A documentary about the 1972 Winter Olympic Games in Sapporo, Japan.
Search similar movies
6.7
Sapporo+Winter+Olympics
Sapporo Winter Olympics

1972

Search similar movies
Andre the Giant

An ambitious and wide-ranging documentary exploring Andre’s upbringing in France, his celebrated career in WWE, and his forays in the entertainment world.
Search similar movies
7.3
Andre+the+Giant
Andre the Giant

2018

Search similar movies
Satoshi Kon: The Illusionist

A subtle portrait of Japanese director Satoshi Kon by the specialist of Japanese cinema Pascal-Alex Vincent and a dive into a rich work. With interviews of the greatest Japanese, French and American directors inspired by his work.
Search similar movies
6.7
Satoshi+Kon%3A+The+Illusionist
Satoshi Kon: The Illusionist

2021

Search similar movies
Chris Brown: A History of Violence

A biographical documentary that delves into the controversial personal life of iconic singer Chris Brown, charting his journey from a troubled childhood to global superstardom. It explores his violent public record, including allegations of domestic violence, assault charges and sexual misconduct, while questioning how a man with such a turbulent history maintains his celebrity status. With expert and cultural commentary layered throughout, the film offers thoughtful reflections on the cycle of abuse and its lasting psychological impact, shedding light on the experiences of survivors and the aftermath of their trauma.
Search similar movies
5.3
Chris+Brown%3A+A+History+of+Violence
Chris Brown: A History of Violence

2024

Search similar movies
Barbara Stanwyck: Fire and Desire

Actress Sally Field looks at the dramatic life and successful career of the superb actress Barbara Stanwyck (1907-90), a Hollywood legend.
Search similar movies
5.7
Barbara+Stanwyck%3A+Fire+and+Desire
Barbara Stanwyck: Fire and Desire

1991

Search similar movies
Tyson

Director James Toback takes an unflinching, uncompromising look at the life of Mike Tyson--almost solely from the perspective of the man himself. TYSON alternates between the controversial boxer addressing the camera and shots of the champion's fights to create an arresting picture of the man.
Search similar movies
6.9
Tyson
Maradona by Kusturica

A documentary on Argentinean soccer star Diego Maradona, regarded by many as the world's greatest modern player.
Search similar movies
6.3
Maradona+by+Kusturica
Maradona by Kusturica

2008

Search similar movies
Mount Lawrence

Chandler Wild, A New York based filmmaker, travels 6,700 miles to the end of the road in Alaska to honor his deceased father by naming a mountain after him.
Search similar movies
Mount+Lawrence
Mount Lawrence

2015

Search similar movies
James Ensor: Demons Teasing Me

This film explains what James Ensor (1860-1949) meant for the development of art and makes palpable where he got his inspiration from.
Search similar movies
8.0
James+Ensor%3A+Demons+Teasing+Me
James Ensor: Demons Teasing Me

2010

Search similar movies
Red Penguins

Shortly after the collapse of the Soviet Union, the Pittsburgh Penguins and the famed Red Army hockey team formed a joint venture that redefined what was possible in the new Russia. Eccentric marketing whiz, Steve Warshaw, is sent to Moscow and tasked to transform the team into the greatest show in Russia, attracting some of the biggest names in Hollywood and advertising along the way. He takes the viewer on a bizarre journey highlighting a pivotal moment in U.S.-Russian relations during a lawless era when oligarchs made their fortunes and multiple murders went unsolved.
Search similar movies
5.6
Red+Penguins
Red Penguins

2019

Search similar movies
13 Days in France

This colorful documentary chronicles the events of the 1968 Winter Olympics in France. The events made international celebrities of skater Peggy Fleming and skier Jean-Claude Killy for their gold-medal performances. The camera accurately catches the speed of bobsleds and downhill racers and ski jumpers as they race for the gold. President Charles DeGaulle is shown observing the action over 13 days, which saw France earn the best performance to date in the winter games.
Search similar movies
6.0
13+Days+in+France
13 Days in France

1968

Search similar movies
Manson: Music From an Unsound Mind

The untold story of Charles Manson's obsession to become a rock star, his rise in the LA music scene, the celebrities who championed his music, his tragic friendship with The Beach Boys' Dennis Wilson and his descent into violence and chaos once his dreams fell apart.
Search similar movies
6.7
Manson%3A+Music+From+an+Unsound+Mind
Manson: Music From an Unsound Mind

2019

Search similar movies
Eric Clapton: Life in 12 Bars

An unflinching and deeply personal journey into the life and work of guitarist Eric Clapton told through his own words and songs.
Search similar movies
7.4
Eric+Clapton%3A+Life+in+12+Bars
Eric Clapton: Life in 12 Bars

2018

Search similar movies
Bye Bye Barry

When NFL superstar Barry Sanders vanished at the height of his career, he left the NFL world in shock. He was still in his prime, chasing the all-time NFL rushing record when he boarded a flight to England and never stepped foot on the field again. Now, 24 years later, Barry retraces his steps through the streets of London to finally confront the mystery.
Search similar movies
7.9
Bye+Bye+Barry
Bye Bye Barry

2023

Search similar movies
I, Claude Monet

From award-winning director Phil Grabsky comes this fresh new look at arguably the world’s favourite artist – through his own words. Using letters and other private writings I, Claude Monet reveals new insight into the man who not only painted the picture that gave birth to impressionism but who was perhaps the most influential and successful painter of the 19th and early 20th centuries. Despite this, and perhaps because of it, Monet’s life is a gripping tale about a man who, behind his sun-dazzled canvases, suffered from feelings of depression, loneliness, even suicide. Then, as his art developed and his love of gardening led to the glories of his garden at Giverney, his humour, insight and love of life is revealed. Shot on location in Paris, London, Normandy and Venice I, Claude Monet is a cinematic immersion into some of the most loved and iconic scenes in Western Art.
Search similar movies
6.2
I%2C+Claude+Monet
I, Claude Monet

2017

Search similar movies
Bad Boys

The Detroit Pistons of the late 1980s and early '90s seemed willing to do anything to win. That characteristic made them loved — and hated. It earned them the title: Bad Boys.
Search similar movies
7.6
Bad+Boys
The Unpredictable Factor

In today's climate debate, there is only one factor that cannot be calculated in climate models - humans. How can we nevertheless understand our role in the climate system and manage the crisis? Climate change is a complex global problem. Increasingly extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and more difficult living conditions - including for us humans - are already the order of the day. Global society has never faced such a complex challenge. For young people in particular, the frightening climate scenarios will be a reality in the future. For the global south, it is already today. To overcome this crisis, different perspectives are needed. "THE UNPREDICTABLE FACTOR" goes back to the origins of the German environmental movement, accompanies today's activists in the Rhineland in their fight against the coal industry and gives a voice to scientists from climate research, ethnology and psychology.
Search similar movies
The+Unpredictable+Factor
The Unpredictable Factor

2022

Search similar movies
Roof Culture Asia

Team Storror showcase Parkour on a stage never before seen - the rooftops of Asian megacities. The film follows team Storror on their exploration into what drives them to push the sport to such extremes, and the battles that face them when trying to shoot a feature film totally guerilla. RCA delves into the mental and physical preparation Parkour athletes have to undertake to make impossible 'leaps of faith', possible.
Search similar movies
9.4
Roof+Culture+Asia
Roof Culture Asia

2017

Search similar movies
Katharine Hepburn: All About Me

In a rare interview, Katharine Hepburn shares her memories and memorabilia.
Search similar movies
7.2
Katharine+Hepburn%3A+All+About+Me
Katharine Hepburn: All About Me

1993

Search similar movies
Larisa

Elem Klimov's documentary ode to his wife, director Larisa Shepitko, who was killed in an auto wreck.
Search similar movies
5.9
Larisa