Netflix is now an arsenal of documentaries of a diverse array of interests. True crime stories or nature documentaries – there’s a documentary on Netflix for all.
If what you are looking for is a reasoned detail of history, a person’s story or a social problem, then in all likelihood you will find something to attract your attention. We are going to review 15 of the best documentaries on Netflix that you will want to watch.
1. Making a Murderer (2015)
If you’re a true fan of true crime stories, watch Making a Murderer. This documentary series covers the criminal case of a man falsely accused and later released of a crime and then prosecuted for another crime. It tests one on the issues of the criminal justice system, and you will wonder if legal proceedings are fair.
2. 13th (2016)
Produced by Ava DuVernay, 13th examines the relationship between race, justice and mass incarceration in the U.S.
This documentary looks into how the 13th Amendment to rid America of slavery also created the avenue for mass imprisonment of African Americans. 13th is a powerful movie that provokes one to think with a critical mind about racism in America.
3. Our Planet (2019)
Our Planet is a documentary series showing nature’s beauty from the perspective of Sir David Attenborough. The series introduces viewers to a tour of almost all the world, showing various ecosystems and threatened species deteriorated by climate change.
Our Planet is a series you must check out, with amazing visuals and conservation messages.
4. The Social Dilemma (2020)
In The Social Dilemma, social media experts, former as well as whistleblowers, explain social media’s negative effect on society.
It is through this documentary that we are able to understand how algorithms are used to manipulate individuals and contaminate information while also affecting mental health. It’s an enlightening video, relevant for all the social media users.
5. Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem, and Madness (2020)
Tiger King is one of the most discussed Netflix documentaries of recent years, as it explores the eccentric world of big cat owners in the US.
The documentary immerses us in the competitiveness between Joe Exotic and Carole Baskin, having the kilometres of twists, the weirdest personalities, crime and controversy. It’s an adrenaline ride of a watch that you will not forget in a hurry.
6. Won’t You Be My Neighbour? (2018)
Won’t You Be My Neighbour? is a moving documentary about Fred Rogers, Mister Rogers’ Neighbourhood host, who was so beloved.
Using interviews, archival footage and firsthand stories, this documentary honours Rogers’ goodness and the deep imprint he made on generations of children. It’s a warm and emotive movie that teaches people to be empathetic and kind.
7. The Last Dance (2020)
For sports fans, The Last Dance should be watched. This documentary series takes us behind the scenes into the final year in the career of Michael Jordan with the Chicago Bulls, presenting his iconic team’s quest to win the 1998 NBA league. It’s a fascinating account of the life of one of the greatest basketball players ever.
8. Fyre: The Greatest Party That Never Happened (2019)
Fyre narrates the story of Fyre Festival, which went from being a luxury music festival to a disastrous one.
One of the things that are presented throughout the interviews with the individuals involved in the labeled the festival was a glamorous event, and then when it was organised, the organisers failed to deliver anything near to the expectations. It’s a jaw-dropping fraud, deception, and mismanagement story.
9. Free Solo (2018)
Free Solo is a documentary concerning rock climber Alex Honnold, who goes on to climb a nearly 3000 ft vertical rock face on El Capitan with no ropes or other safety contraptions.
The movie is an exhilarating and nerve-wracking expedition sure to offer more than just a peek into Honnold’s impressive physique, but rather an inquisition into his mental state and the danger of his stunt.
10. The Keepers (2017)
The Keepers is a real-crime documentary that is cold and unique; it follows the unsolved murder of a Catholic nun, Sister Cathy Cesnik.
Her life and the speculated relation between her demise and a string of sexual abuse claims on the church are explored in the documentary. This seven-chapter series is highly engrossing, and the suspense keeps you turning the page to the very end.
11. Jiro Dreams of Sushi (2011)
Jiro Dreams of Sushi is a beautiful documentary which documents the life of an 85-year-old sushi master, Jiro Ono, and his search for perfection.
The film provides an intimate insight into his restaurant, recipient of Michelin stars, and puts such themes as discipline, passion, and dedication to craft under the scanner. Foodies and/or anyone who wants to read about Japanese culture shouldn’t miss this show.
12. In a Cat’s Head (2022)
If you love cats, then Inside the Mind of a Cat is an interesting documentary in which the mysterious and all too frequently misunderstood behaviour of cats is considered.
With experts, veterinarians, and pet owners, the film goes down to the psychology of cats and why they do what they do. For anyone who ever wondered what’s going through a cat’s mind, it’s both teaching and fun.
13. Icarus (2017)
Within Icarus, director Bryan Fogel begins an expedition in the realm of performance-enhancing drugs in sports, but his journey gets an unwelcome twist when he gets caught in a world doping scandal.
The film is an edge-of-the-seat account of corruption within the world of professional sports as people stop at nothing to succeed.
14. The Staircase (2004)
True-crime documentary series: this series involves a story of a man who has been accused of killing his deceased wife at the foot of a staircase.
The series has a detailed account of the legal proceedings, the courtroom drama and all that surrounded the apparent innocence of Peterson. It is a great watch for buffs of crime and legal documentaries.
15. American Factory (2019)
American Factory is a story of a Chinese billionaire who reopens a plant in post-industrial Ohio, employing thousands of Chinese workers to work together with the American fellows.
The documentary discusses the culture conflict, the working-class America challenges, and the global economy backdrop. It’s a challenging labour class and globalisation analysis.
Conclusion
There are countless great documentaries available on Netflix, which covers many topics – from true crime and social issues to nature and personal stories. These are 15 of the best documentaries the platform has to offer and surely will keep you spellbound, informed and inspired.
If you want to be shocked, enlightened or entertained, there is no better choice than any of these documentaries. Therefore, get your popcorn and sit back to get ready for an unforgettable watch.