Why Documentaries on Netflix Are a Must-See

You might be wondering, “With all the movies and series, why focus on documentaries?”

Well, let me tell you, Netflix has become a powerhouse for documentary films and series. The platform not only licenses incredible independent docs but also invests heavily in producing its own high-quality, award-winning original documentaries.

What does this mean for you?

Unprecedented access to a diverse range of factual storytelling. From deep dives into social justice issues to breathtaking nature explorations and intimate biographical portraits, there’s a documentary on Netflix to pique literally any interest. Plus, their global reach often means these stories find massive audiences, sparking important conversations worldwide.

Our Curated List: Top 20 Must-Watch Documentaries on Netflix

Alright, let’s dive into the main event. I’ve compiled this list based on critical acclaim, audience buzz, thematic diversity, and pure storytelling power. While availability can sometimes vary by region (Netflix libraries are dynamic!), these are generally widely accessible and represent some of the best documentary filmmaking you can find. Get your watchlist ready!

1. My Octopus Teacher (2020)

This Oscar-winning film is a surprisingly emotional journey. It follows filmmaker Craig Foster who forges an unlikely friendship with an octopus in a South African kelp forest. It’s a beautiful meditation on nature, connection, and the wonders of the underwater world. You’ll be amazed, and maybe even shed a tear.

2. The Social Dilemma (2020)

If you use social media (who doesn’t?), this one is a wake-up call. Former tech insiders from Google, Facebook, Twitter, and other giants reveal how social media is intentionally designed to be addictive and manipulate our behavior. It’s eye-opening and will make you rethink your digital life. Essential viewing, in my opinion.

3. 13th (2016)

Directed by Ava DuVernay, this powerful documentary explores the intersection of race, justice, and mass incarceration in the United States. The title refers to the 13th Amendment to the Constitution. It’s a chilling, informative, and absolutely crucial film for understanding contemporary American society.

4. American Factory (2019)

What happens when a Chinese billionaire opens a new factory in an abandoned General Motors plant in Ohio? This documentary offers a fascinating, often humorous, and sometimes tense look at the culture clashes and economic anxieties that arise. It won the Oscar for Best Documentary Feature, and for good reason.

5. Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution (2020)

Just down the road from Woodstock, a revolution blossomed in a ramshackle summer camp for teenagers with disabilities. This inspiring film, executive produced by Barack and Michelle Obama, shows how these campers became activists fighting for accessibility and disability rights. It’s heartwarming, empowering, and educational.

6. David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet (2020)

Sir David Attenborough delivers his “witness statement” in this poignant look back at his incredible career and the devastating changes he’s seen in the natural world. But it’s not all doom and gloom; he also offers a message of hope and solutions for the future. A must-watch for anyone who cares about our planet.

7. Icarus (2017)

What starts as a personal experiment by filmmaker Bryan Fogel into doping in cycling quickly snowballs into a massive international scandal involving a Russian whistleblower. This Oscar-winner plays out like a thriller. It’s a shocking and gripping exposé of state-sponsored doping.

8. Making a Murderer (2015-2018)

This true-crime docuseries became a cultural phenomenon. Filmed over 10 years, it follows the story of Steven Avery, a man exonerated for one crime only to be arrested for another. It raises serious questions about the justice system and will have you debating for hours.

9. Fyre: The Greatest Party That Never Happened (2019)

Remember the Fyre Festival disaster? This documentary gives you a jaw-dropping, behind-the-scenes look at how an overly ambitious, influencer-hyped luxury music festival spectacularly imploded. It’s a wild ride and a cautionary tale about hype and fraud in the Instagram age.

10. Athlete A (2020)

This powerful and disturbing film follows the Indianapolis Star reporters who broke the story of USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar’s abuse and the gymnasts who survived his actions. It’s a testament to investigative journalism and the courage of survivors. Tough to watch, but incredibly important.

11. Seaspiracy (2021)

This controversial documentary ignited debates worldwide about the environmental impact of fishing. Filmmaker Ali Tabrizi sets out to document the harm humans do to marine species and uncovers alarming global corruption. It will definitely make you think twice about the seafood on your plate.

12. Winter on Fire: Ukraine’s Fight for Freedom (2015)

Disturbingly relevant, this documentary provides a visceral, on-the-ground look at the 2013-2014 Euromaidan protests in Ukraine. It captures the spirit of a people fighting for their future. It’s an intense and deeply moving historical document.

13. The Tinder Swindler (2022)

Another true-crime hit, this documentary tells the story of a prolific conman who posed as a wealthy diamond mogul to defraud women he met on Tinder. We hear directly from the women who banded together to take him down. It’s a gripping story of deception and revenge.

14. Our Planet (2019)

From the creators of “Planet Earth,” this stunning eight-part series showcases the planet’s natural beauty and examines how climate change impacts all living creatures. Narrated by David Attenborough, the cinematography is breathtaking. It’s both awe-inspiring and a crucial call to action.

15. What Happened, Miss Simone? (2015)

This biographical documentary uses rare archival footage and interviews to paint a portrait of the legendary singer and activist Nina Simone. It explores her incredible talent, her activism, and her personal struggles. A powerful and intimate look at a complex icon.

16. The Great Hack (2019)

Delving into the Cambridge Analytica scandal, this documentary explores how data became a valuable asset and was weaponized for political purposes. It’s a chilling look at data privacy and manipulation in the digital age. If “The Social Dilemma” scared you, this will too.

17. Becoming (2020)

Join former First Lady Michelle Obama on her book tour for her memoir, “Becoming.” This documentary offers an intimate look at her life, hopes, and connections with people she meets along the way. It’s uplifting and provides a behind-the-scenes glimpse of a remarkable woman.

18. Dick Johnson Is Dead (2020)

Filmmaker Kirsten Johnson stages inventive and comical ways for her aging father to “die” as a way for them both to confront his eventual mortality. It’s a unique, funny, and deeply moving exploration of love, loss, and dementia. A truly original and heartfelt film.

19. Amanda Knox (2016)

This documentary examines the infamous Meredith Kercher murder case and the subsequent conviction and eventual acquittal of Amanda Knox. Featuring interviews with Knox herself, it delves into the media frenzy and the complexities of the case. It’s a compelling look at a story that captivated the world.

20. Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness (2020)

No list from the early 2020s would be complete without mentioning the docuseries that took the world by storm during lockdown. It explores the bizarre world of big cat breeding in America and the eccentric characters involved, especially Joe Exotic. It’s wild, unbelievable, and utterly transfixing. Love it or hate it, it was a phenomenon.

Beyond the List: How to Find Your Next Favorite Documentary

So, you’ve worked your way through these 20 must-watch documentaries on Netflix – what next? Don’t worry, your documentary journey doesn’t have to end here. Here are a few tips to unearth even more gems:

• Utilize Netflix’s Categories and Recommendations: Netflix has a dedicated “Documentaries” category, often broken down into subgenres like “True Crime,” “Science & Nature,” “Biographical,” etc. Pay attention to what Netflix recommends for you based on your viewing history – its algorithm can be surprisingly good!
• Follow Reputable Review Sites and Curators: Many film critics and publications specialize in documentaries. Keep an eye on their reviews and “best of” lists.
• Look for Award Winners: Documentaries that win awards at major festivals like Sundance, TIFF, or the Academy Awards are often exceptional.
• Explore a Content Discovery Platform for Deeper Insights: For a more professional approach to content trends and availability, specialized platforms can offer a wealth of data about what’s popular and why.

The Enduring Power of Documentaries

Why do we love documentaries so much?

I think it’s because they connect us to the real world in profound ways. They can educate us, challenge our perspectives, introduce us to incredible people and places, and even inspire us to act. A great documentary doesn’t just present facts; it tells a compelling story.

It can make you laugh, cry, get angry, or feel a deep sense of empathy. That’s powerful stuff!