Gates of Heaven (1978)

A showcase of workers in the animal burial industry while dealing with heavier existential questions regarding mortality and the afterlife. Floyd 'Mac' McClure believes that a graceful burial is as important for pets as it is for people; he chronicles his struggles to keep his niche business afloat, and interviews several of his associates and one of his competitors, the manager of a rendering plant.

Genres: Documentary

What to watch after Gates of Heaven

• Into the Abyss (2011) — Two steps away in the credits
• Cave of Forgotten Dreams (2010)
• A Brief History of Time (1991) — Errol Morris directed both
• Grizzly Man (2005) — Same feel: emotional, thought-provoking
• The Velvet Underground (2021) — Two steps away in the credits
• Mr. Death: The Rise and Fall of Fred A. Leuchter, Jr. (1999) — Errol Morris directed both