Critics Choice Documentary Awards: Nominations Announced for Tenth Annual Event

The Critics Choice Association has just unveiled the nominees for the Tenth Annual Critics Choice Documentary Awards. The winners will be announced at a swanky gala on Sunday, November 9th, 2025, at The Edison Ballroom in Manhattan. Hosted by the talented Aasif Mandvi, this milestone event promises to bring together big names in the industry, filmmakers, and special guests for a night dedicated to honoring exceptional documentary filmmaking.

Legendary documentarian Ken Burns will be receiving the prestigious Critics Choice Impact Award, presented by the incredible Christine Baranski. This award honors filmmakers who have made a significant impact with their work, sparking important conversations and shedding light on our shared history. Ken Burns, known for breathing life into American stories, truly embodies the spirit of this award.

Visionary filmmakers Heidi Ewing and Rachel Grady will be receiving the Pennebaker Award, presented by Chris Hegedus. This award, named after the legendary D.A. Pennebaker, celebrates filmmakers who have made enduring contributions to the art of documentary storytelling.

Leading the nominations this year is “Orwell: 2+2=5” with seven nods, including Best Documentary Feature. “The Perfect Neighbor” is not far behind with six nominations, showcasing its excellence in various categories.

The ceremony will mark a decade of honoring excellence in nonfiction filmmaking and will be live-streamed for everyone to enjoy on YouTube, X, Facebook, and the Critics Choice Association website on Sunday, November 9th at 7:00 PM ET.

In the past, films like “Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story” and “Will & Harper” have taken home the top prize for Best Documentary Feature, sweeping multiple categories with their outstanding work.

The Critics Choice Association is committed to recognizing the best documentaries released in theaters, on TV, and major digital platforms, as voted by qualified CCA members. The awards ceremony is set to be an unforgettable evening celebrating the power of documentary storytelling in enlightening and engaging audiences.

So mark your calendars for November 9th, as we celebrate the incredible talent in the world of documentary filmmaking at this star-studded gala event!