Biographical documentaries
Confucius
Over 2,500 years ago, one man devised a way of thinking that still shapes the most powerful and populous nation on earth.
He was Confucius, one of history’s most influential men. But who was he and why do billions of people still follow his teachings?
This stunning documentary explores the life and times of Confucius and demystifies his ideas. We all want to understand China and through Confucius we can.
Zelensky: The Making of a President
In just over three years, Volodymyr Zelensky has gone from Ukraine’s best-known comedian to one of the world’s most recognizable leaders. He’s rallied his country in its fight for survival against Russia and has gained global respect and admiration.
This in-depth documentary tells the fascinating story of the Ukrainian president’s transformation. The BBC’s former Ukraine correspondent Jonah Fisher who followed Zelensky closely during his rise to power, explores one of the world’s most incredible political journeys.
Gandhi
How did a man so loyal to the British Empire that he acted as a recruiting sergeant in World War 1 eventually lead the Indian people to a revolution that would end British rule forever? And how, when his blueprint for India would be largely ignored, is he still revered as the ‘Father of the Nation’?
Journalist Mishal Husain uncovers the complicated legacy of Mahatma Gandhi in this biographical documentary on BBC Select.
David Bowie: Finding Fame
This is the David Bowie story you don’t know.
Though he’s now considered an icon that transformed music forever, Bowie’s quest for fame had multiple false starts.
Relive the journey to fame, before Ziggy, before Bowie, in this insightful and entertaining BBC David Bowie documentary, streaming now on BBC Select.