
Mockumentaries adopt the style of documentaries to tell fictional stories, often for comedic or satirical effect.
1. This Is Spinal Tap (1984)
A fake documentary following a fictional British heavy metal band on their disastrous American tour.
Why it’s great:
- Pitch-perfect parody of rock documentaries and music industry
- Improvised performances creating authentic feel
- Quotable lines and running gags (e.g., “These go to eleven”)
2. Best in Show (2000)
Christopher Guest‘s comedy follows several eccentric dog owners as they compete in a prestigious dog show.
Why it’s great:
- Strong ensemble cast with improvised performances
- Satirical look at the world of dog shows and their participants
- Memorable characters and quotable lines
3. What We Do in the Shadows (2014)
A look into the daily (or nightly) lives of vampire roommates in Wellington, New Zealand.
Why it’s great:
- Clever take on vampire lore and mythology
- Deadpan humor and absurd situations
- Strong chemistry among the vampire flatmates
4. Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan (2006)
Sacha Baron Cohen‘s fictional Kazakh journalist travels across America, interacting with unsuspecting people.
Why it’s great:
- Blend of scripted and unscripted moments
- Satirical exploration of American culture and prejudices
- Cohen’s committed performance as Borat
5. Zelig (1983)
Woody Allen‘s film about a man with the ability to transform his appearance to fit in with those around him.
Why it’s great:
- Innovative use of special effects to insert Allen into historical footage
- Clever satire of conformity and celebrity culture
- Blend of humor with poignant character study.