Movies like Dear Mr. Watterson (2013)
The best movies like Dear Mr. Watterson (2013) are Stripped (2014), Beauty Is Embarrassing (2012) and The Bitter Buddha (2012). If Dear Mr. Watterson hooked you with its documentary, these 30 similar films are what to watch next, and every pick says why it matches.
Quick picks
- Highest ratedI Am Heath Ledger (2017)7.4/10 from 233 votes
- NewestNorm: The Tale of Norm Macdonald (2026)Released 2026
Stripped (2014)
A documentary on comic strips, with never-seen-before interviews from Bill Watterson (Calvin & Hobbes), Jim Davis (Garfield), Jeff Keane (Family Circus), Cathy Guisewite (Cathy) and dozens more. The film asks a central question: Where do comic strips go when newspapers die? Everybody loves comics, but will they survive in a digital world?
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
Beauty Is Embarrassing (2012)
Raised in the Tennessee mountains, Wayne White started his career as a cartoonist in NYC. He quickly found success as one of the creators of the Pee-wee's Playhouse TV show which soon led to more work designing some of the most arresting and iconic images in pop culture. Recently his word paintings featuring pithy and and often sarcastic text statements finely crafted onto vintage landscape paintings have made him a darling of the fine art world. The movie chronicles the vaulted highs and crushing lows of an artist struggling to find peace and balance between his professional work and his personal art. This is especially complicated for a man who struggles with the virtues he most often mocks in his art...Vanity, ego and fame.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
The Bitter Buddha (2012)
The Documentary takes an unconventional journey through the life of one of America's most original comedic voices. Eddie Pepitone, "The Bitter Buddha", is looked at in this portrait of creativity, enlightenment and rage.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
Chuck Jones: Extremes and In-Betweens - A Life in Animation (2000)
This biography, shown on American television as part of the PBS "Great Performances" series, examines the life works of one of Hollywood's most celebrated animators, Chuck (Charles M.) Jones. He is best known for Warner Brothers cartoons featuring Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Elmer Fudd, Porky Pig, Road Runner, Wile E. Coyote, and Pepe LePew. Included are plenty of behind-the-scenes descriptions of how an animated film is made, and (best of all) many clips from Chuck's cartoons.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
The Greatest Movie Ever Rolled (2013)
Comedian Doug Benson, the subject of Super High Me, is back to answer one question: What is the subject of that cult hit pot-umentary up to now? He’s got three popular podcasts, 400,000 plus Twitter followers, a series on Comedy Central, and a new comedy doc: The Greatest Movie Ever Rolled. It’s a fast paced look at life on the road for a comic with a rabid following, as he travels with his buddy - clean-livin’, wound-up karate enthusiast, Graham Elwood - on a tour to raise money to make a movie about going on tour to raise money to make a movie. Yeah, so very Spurlock of him. Doug finds fun everywhere he goes, and he’d like to share it with you.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
Walt: The Man Behind the Myth (2001)
From Mickey Mouse to the Magic Kingdom, he turned his dreams into entertainment for the ages. Now, learn his real story. Through exclusive footage and interviews with friends and family, this documentary traces the complicated life of legendary animator Walt Disney.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
Marwencol (2010)
After a vicious attack leaves him brain-damaged and broke, Mark Hogancamp seeks recovery in "Marwencol", a 1/6th scale World War II-era town he creates in his backyard.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
Worth the HypeMovies like thisThe Hand Behind the Mouse: The Ub Iwerks Story (1999)
There's not a person in the world who wouldn't recognize Mickey Mouse. But until now, not many knew the man who originally gave shape, movement and personality to the world's most beloved icon. "The Hand Behind the Mouse: The Ub Iwerks Story" takes you behind the scenes to meet Walt Disney's best friend and chief animator.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
Method to the Madness of Jerry Lewis (2011)
It will surprise few to discover that star of stage and screen Jerry Lewis has sought to amuse others since he was five years old. Since that early age, audiences split their sides watching his wacky antics, whilst wannabe comics aspired to his prolific career, from his solo work to his double act with Dean Martin. Indeed, many of his famous fans share stories of affection and admiration for the now 86-year-old performer and filmmaker in Gregg Barson’s documentary. Steven Spielberg, Quentin Tarantino, Eddie Murphy and Jerry Seinfeld are among those waxing lyrical about Lewis’ particular brand of genius, and his place in the annals of history. Including a cavalcade of hilarious clips from eight decades in the spotlight, Method to the Madness of Jerry Lewis examines the icon and his influence, and is essential viewing for aficionados of the man and his legacy.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
Floyd Norman: An Animated Life (2016)
Animator. Storyman. Troublemaker. At 80 years old, see how Disney Legend Floyd Norman, the first African-American animator at Disney, continues to impact animation and stir up "trouble" after the company forced him to retire at age 65.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
Drew: The Man Behind the Poster (2013)
A documentary on legendary movie-poster artist Drew Struzan.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
Worth the HypeMovies like thisThe Power of Glove (2017)
“The Power of Glove” is a documentary that chronicles the history & legacy of the notoriously “bad” Power Glove, a 1989 Nintendo controller that promised to forever change the way humans interact with technology. Originally released by Mattel, the Power Glove was the first mass-marketed gesture-based video game controller. It was designed by an eclectic team of hard-working and bright-eyed dreamers, and its marketing hype was immense. Immediately after its release, however, gamers were disappointed by the Power Glove, and critics panned it as a worthless gimmick. Yet unlike many gimmicks and critical failures of the past, the Power Glove has not been simply swept under the rug. Nearly three decades after its release, the Power Glove continues to resonate with video gaming and technology fans, becoming the focus of art pieces, songs, videos, hacking projects, and other forms of cultural repurposing. “The Power of Glove” tells the story of how and why the Power Glove lives on.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
In the Realms of the Unreal (2004)
In the Realms of the Unreal is a documentary about the reclusive Chicago-based artist Henry Darger. Henry Darger was so reclusive that when he died his neighbors were surprised to find a 15,145-page manuscript along with hundreds of paintings depicting The Story of the Vivian Girls, in What is Known as the Realms of the Unreal, of the Glodeco-Angelinnian War Storm, Cased by the Child Slave Rebellion.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
Worth the HypeMovies like thisScream Greats, Vol.1: Tom Savini, Master of Horror Effects (1986)
A documentary detailing the career of makeup artist Tom Savini, including clips from the various movies he's worked on.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
Joker: Put on a Happy Face (2020)
Featuring interviews with filmmakers and industry legends, discover the origins and evolution of The Joker, and learn why The Clown Prince of Crime is universally hailed as the greatest comic-book supervillain of all time.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
Absolute CinemaMovies like thisMeow Wolf: Origin Story (2018)
When a group of young DIY artists in Santa Fe can’t find a door into the art world, they blow open an entirely new portal with their grit, passion, and tenacity. Within just a few short years – and with a little help from George R.R. Martin – this group called Meow Wolf ultimately hits a cultural nerve and garners massive, unexpected success with their exhibit, House of Eternal Return.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
David Lynch: The Art Life (2017)
An intimate journey through the formative years of David Lynch's life. From his idyllic upbringing in small town America to the dark streets of Philadelphia, we follow Lynch as he traces the events that have helped to shape one of cinema's most enigmatic directors.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
Worth the HypeMovies like thisNorm: The Tale of Norm Macdonald (2026)
Go down a wormhole in this documentary on master of deadpan humor Norm Macdonald, whose life and career were uncompromising yet full of contradictions.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
Clapboard Jungle: Surviving the Independent Film Business (2020)
Following five years in the life and career of independent filmmaker Justin McConnell, this documentary explores the struggles of financing, attracting the right talent, working with practical effects and selling the finished product in the hope of turning a profit. Featuring interviews with a range of industry luminaries, not only are technical aspects and interpersonal skills discussed but also the emotional stamina and little-known tips needed to survive in the low budget film industry.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
Phil Tippett: Mad Dreams and Monsters (2019)
An in-depth, sad, and beautiful documentary about the stop motion and VFX artist Phil Tippett, a man who changed the landscape of visual effects in film.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
Bugs Bunny Superstar (1976)
Animator Robert Clampett presents a history of "Termite Terrace," the little shack on the Warner Brothers studio lot which in the 1930's and 1940's housed the animation unit which gave birth to Porky Pig, Daffy Duck and Bugs Bunny. Includes color and black-and-white home-movie-type footage shot at the time showing such animation greats as Clampett, Tex Avery and Chuck Jones. Also featured are nine complete Warner cartoons.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
Warren Ellis: Captured Ghosts (2011)
Warren Ellis: Captured Ghosts is a feature-length documentary that takes an in depth look at the life, career and mind of the British comic book writer Warren Ellis. The film combines extensive interviews with Ellis with insights from his colleagues and friends, as well as ambient visual re-creations of his prose and comics work.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
Out of Print (2014)
A documentary exploring the importance of revival cinema and 35mm exhibition - seen through the lens of the patrons of the New Beverly Cinema - a unique and independent revival cinema in Los Angeles.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
A Spark Story (2021)
A documentary film providing an exclusive and immersive look at the process of Pixar Animation Studios filmmakers as they step into a leadership role and strive to bring their uniquely personal SparkShorts visions to the screen.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
An Accidental Studio (2019)
Charts the early years of HandMade Films seen through the eyes of the filmmakers, key personnel, and the man who started it all: former Beatle George Harrison.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
It Takes a Lunatic (2019)
The extraordinary life of beloved acting teacher and theatre producer Wynn Handman is recalled in this portrait of a provocative, innovative artist.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
Untold Mr. T: I Pity the Fool (2026)
Mr. T took the world by storm as an '80s icon. This documentary reveals the full story behind the mohawk, chains and catchphrase from the man himself.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
Too Funny to Fail: The Life & Death of The Dana Carvey Show (2017)
It had all the makings of a huge television success: a white-hot comic at the helm, a coveted primetime slot, and a pantheon of future comedy legends in the cast and crew. So why did The Dana Carvey Show—with a writers room and cast including then unknowns Steve Carell, Stephen Colbert, Louis C.K., Robert Smigel, Charlie Kaufman, and more— crash and burn so spectacularly? TOO FUNNY TO FAIL tells the hilarious true story of a crew of genius misfits who set out to make comedy history… and succeeded in a way they never intended.
Why it matches: Fans watch both · both documentary
Absolute CinemaMovies like thisStan Lee (2023)
Celebrate the legacy of Stan Lee as the co-creator of such legendary characters as Fantastic Four, Iron Man, the X-Men, The Avengers, and hundreds more.
Why it matches: Recommended by TMDB viewers · both documentary
Worth the HypeMovies like thisI Am Heath Ledger (2017)
The life and career of an actor, artist, and icon. His own journey through his own camera.
Why it matches: Recommended by TMDB viewers · both documentary
Worth the HypeMovies like this
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Frequently asked questions
What are the best movies like Dear Mr. Watterson?
The closest matches to Dear Mr. Watterson are Stripped (2014), Beauty Is Embarrassing (2012) and The Bitter Buddha (2012). Below are 27 more, each with the reason it matches.
What should I watch after Dear Mr. Watterson?
People who watched Dear Mr. Watterson most often go on to Stripped (2014), Beauty Is Embarrassing (2012) and The Bitter Buddha (2012).
What is the highest-rated movie like Dear Mr. Watterson?
I Am Heath Ledger (2017), rated 7.4/10 by 233 TMDB users.
What is the newest movie like Dear Mr. Watterson?
Norm: The Tale of Norm Macdonald (2026) is the most recent release on this list.
Are there English movies like Dear Mr. Watterson?
Yes: Stripped (2014), Beauty Is Embarrassing (2012) and The Bitter Buddha (2012).
How are movies similar to Dear Mr. Watterson chosen?
First come films that Trakt’s viewers watch alongside Dear Mr. Watterson, then TMDB’s recommendations and films it rates as similar in story and genre. Each pick says which signal put it there.