Best documentary has become the toughest Oscar category to predict in recent years, especially when it comes to nominations. The documentary branch has become famously quirky in recent years, passing over such populist, acclaimed, and decorated titles as Won't You Be My Neighbor? , American Symphony, and Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story . Past performance is no guarantee of success-I've even heard rumors that some voters will refuse on principle to nominate a film by a previous Oscar winner-and geography is not destiny.
From National Geographic's exploration of the sea in " Ocean with David Attenborough," to Hulu's documentation of the life of Sly Stone in " Sly Lives! (aka The Burden of Black Genius)" and ESPN's ongoing "30 for 30" series, the CCDA honors a wide range of topics, bringing together leading filmmakers and industry professionals from all circles. "The nominated films and series this year remind us how documentary storytelling can illuminate truth, inspire empathy, and deepen our understanding of the world," said Christopher Campbell, Critics Choice Association's VP, Documentary.