Biographical documentaries
Idris Elba: Mandela, My Dad and Me
In 2013, acclaimed actor Idris Elba produced and released ‘Idris Elba presents mi Mandela’, an album inspired by his time researching and portraying Nelson Mandela in the film Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom. This revealing biographical documentary follows Idris on his promotional tour as he reconnects with his roots while investigating his own family history.
Dynasties: The Families That Changed The World
Throughout history, certain names have cropped up again and again, holding onto the reins of power. Families that seem to continually reach the pinnacle of society. But how do they do it? This insightful historical documentary series delves into the inner workings of the world’s most powerful and intriguing dynasties. The scandals, powerplays, humble beginnings and dramatic downfalls are all explored.
A Life In Ten Pictures
Watch A Life In Ten Pictures Seasons 1 and 2 with BBC Select. The acclaimed documentary series uses ten photographs from the lives of the world’s most beloved icons to tell their stories. From iconic photos to candid and private pictures, what do these images reveal? And what secrets do they hide?
Through forensic storytelling and interviews with those that knew them best, A Life In Ten Pictures explores the lives and careers of stars including Muhammad Ali, Elizabeth Taylor, Nelson Mandela, John Lennon, Carrie Fisher and Tupac Shakur.
The Man Who Destroyed Oscar Wilde
In 1895, playwright Oscar Wilde fought a spectacular duel in court with his fellow Irishman Edward Carson, a lawyer that Wilde considered a friend. It led to Wilde’s ruin and imprisonment for homosexuality. Merlin Holland, grandson of Wilde, and actors Simon Callow and Rupert Everett explore one of the most scandalous trials of the Victorian era in this fascinating history documentary.
The Real Lawrence of Arabia
A British Intelligence Officer known as Thomas Edward Lawrence conducted daring raids during World War I which made him a legend. But how did this man become the renowned ‘Lawrence of Arabia?’ This fascinating history documentary explores the character behind the man and tries to explain how he came to lead a small band of Arab fighters against the fourth largest army in the world.