Documentaries are a great way to learn something new while also relaxing in front of the TV. Sometimes though, they can get pretty boring. This list breaks down what you need to know about all the best ones. Don't waste time scrolling the channels, get educated!
Murder Among the Mormons
If you like true crime, there's no better backstory than an underground world you never knew of. Once one man in the Mormon religion got a hold of a rare document, the world around him comes to a halt...literally! Who could have done this heinous crime? Watch and find out...
13th
Directed by Ava Duverney, this harrowing look into the mass incarceration of minorities in America following the 13th amendment. Decade by decade the series maps out how prison has unfairly worked in favor of white privilege and how black people were targeted by the government and systemic oppression.
My Octopus Teacher
Once upon a time, a filmmaker by the name of Craig Foster went off snorkeling near the coast of South Africa and met an octopus on his journey. He resolved to return and learn from the octopus about the world below. This film is soothing, uplifting, and remarkably stunning to see.
American Murder: The Family Next Door
This average American family had nothing weird about their life...so why did the mother and three children go missing out of nowhere? In this documentary, follow alongside police as they attempt to track down what looks like a standard runaway, but learn so much more...
High Score
For all you gamers out there, this origin story of video gaming is told by the people who have made some of the best and biggest in the world. From the inspiring arrival of the NES to the Sega vs. Nintendo rivalry, this series will teach you everything there is to know about games. Power up!
Speed Cubers
Some people have a need for speed. Others have a need for speedcubing. Though it might only be 40 minutes long, this documentary has an emotional depth not found in most documentaries. For a heartwarming tale of unusual friendships, watching this movie shouldn't be too hard to figure out...
Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem, and Madness
Were you even in the pandemic if you didn't spend some serious time watching the drama around Tiger King unfold? Deceit, lies, big animal trading, and even murder all take place in this epic tale of one strange man in a wild world. Who do you think took the life of Mr. Baskin? Watch and find out...
Crip Camp
Produced by the Obamas, Crip Camp documents the historical significance of a camp for disabled teens in the 1970s. What started as a way to make friends became an entire revolution for the disabled community. For a touching story of strength, check out this flick!
Miss Americana
Taylor Swift is arguably one of the world's biggest stars, but that doesn't mean things have been easy. Chronicling the life and trials (literally) of Swift is this documentary. From feminist awakenings to warped media coverage, Swift struggles to make sense of her stardom and self-image.
American Factory
If you ever want to see something horrible but endlessly fascinating, this is the flick for you. After the defunct General Motors plant in Dayton, Ohio is purchased by a Chinese billionaire, things change for the workers of the factory. The skilled labor workers, whether American or Chinese, both are under the heel of the powerful and wealthy.
The Great Hack
This 2019 documentary takes a closer look into the Facebook-Cambridge Analytica scandal. With data becoming the most valued resource in the tech world, it's no wonder why every company is feuding for this goldmine. Exposing virality, targeted ads, and more, this is a must-see.
Power of Grayskull: The Definitive History of He-Man and the Masters of the Universe
If you loved He-Man growing up, this is the perfect binge watch for you. What began as a competitor to Kenner, the brand had some serious highs and lows between the 80s and 90s but has become popular once again in recent years. How? Watch to find out how marketing played in their favor...
Abducted in Plain Sight
In the Broberg family, nothing will ever be weirder or harder to hear than the stories of their child Jen being kidnapped twice by their once beloved neighbor. With elements of affairs, aliens, and jaw-dropping details, this is not a story for the faint of heart. Prepare yourself for the worst while watching this...
Five Came Back
This three-episode docuseries follows the depiction of World War II through the eyes of 5 filmmakers. John Ford, William Wyler, John Huston, Frank Capra, and George Stevens all helped the war effort in different ways with their artistic eye. For history fans and film buffs, this is a must-watch.
Ugly Delicious
Foodies should get ready to check out this classic documentary. Whether you like food, travel, or just learning about new cultures, this is a docuseries for everyone. World-renowned chef David Chang does everything from checking out international kid's menus to finding the perfect pizza. Not ugly, just delicious!
They'll Love Me When I'm Dead
First, there was a long-lost Orson Welles film called The Other Side of the Wind. After this dropped, the crew dropped a documentary about the creation of the notorious film. This is that documentary. From rewriting, reshooting, recreating this thing over and over, learn about the notorious filmmaker and his perfectionist ways.
Conversations with a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes
The true-crime buffs will love this terrifying look into the minds of America's most infamous serial killer. Ted Bundy, in his own voice and words, tells the story of his life. Also included are interviews with those who knew him in real life. Watch and listen to this inside look, if you dare...
The Unknown Known
Errol Morris goes straight to the source for information on the Iraq War in his film, The Unknown Known. Former U.S. Secretary of Defense and congressman Donald Rumsfeld sits down with Morris to answer tough questions about why the USA went to fight and what we actually gained, and lost, because of it...
Audrie & Daisy
This is another story that is necessary to watch in the modern age, but incredibly heartbreaking and scary. After two high school students were sexually assaulted, the cyberbullying and following trauma ruins the lives of these young girls. While it's hard to watch, their bravery and courage to speak out make it a must-see...
Formula 1: Drive to Survive
Let's hear those engines! This docuseries covers an entire season of Formula 1 racing and breaks it down into the most exciting parts. Each episode takes a unique anthology approach, giving real plot and storylines to one of America's most unique past times. Even a non=racing fan will reconsider their ideas after this film!
Jim & Andy: The Great Beyond
People who love a Wikipedia rabbit hole probably already know about Jim Carrey's wild lifestyle. This documentary follows Carrey as he delves into full-method acting for the character of Andy Kaufman in Man on the Moon. It doesn't paint Carrey in a great light, but it certainly shows his dedication to the craft...
Long Shot
In this movie, one man's life is saved by an unsuspecting ally... comedy legend Larry David. After father Juan Catalan is falsely accused of a murder he couldn't have committed, his lawyer needs to get creative to prove his innocence. Only 40 minutes long, this is one of the most shocking documentaries of recent years.
The Keepers
Directed by Ryan White, this docuseries delves into the strange circumstances surrounding the murder of a nun in a small town. Once secrets are revealed and pasts are looked into, it turns out that this sister must have known something she shouldn't. This classic whodunnit will have you searching your thoughts for prayers...
Icarus
Flying too close to the sun is a tale as old as time. Fogel started this film as an experiment to see if he could outwit the Haute Route race's drug testing. However, he soon found himself mixed up into something much bigger and more scandalous. Funny and thrilling, this is a perfect film for anyone...
Amanda Knox
Everyone remembers the chilling saga of the Amanda Knox scandal. The murder of Knox’s roommate abroad led to several investigations, trials, and appeals. Now, she sits down to tell her side of the story. With feminist undertones, media misogyny, and the overall portrayal of women onscreen, you'll understand Knox a little better...
Framing Britney Spears
The New York Times put out an anthology of documentaries, among them Framing Britney Spears. In this, viewers learn about pop sensation Britney Spears and her rise to fame, as well as her fall from it. Rooted in deep familial problems with her father, Britney is still fighting for ownership of the money earned in her teens, as well as her right to adulthood.
Too Funny to Fail
Not every SNL star makes it in the big leagues, though they all have comedic chops. So how does a fan favorite crash and burn? In this flick, The Dana Carvey Show is analyzed and unpacked. How did a show with an all-star cast and legendary writers fail so fantastically? Watch this documentary and find out for yourself.
Apollo 11
Director Todd Douglas Miller commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Apollo moon landing with this behind-the-scenes look at how the infamous scene came to be. With restored footage, talking heads, close narrative, and more storytelling techniques, Miller made this far-away land feel close to home.
The Amazing Johnathan Documentary
The Amazing Johnathan Documentary is a film best enjoyed with no background knowledge. The fewer spoilers you can get, the better you'll like it. All you need to know is filmmaker Benjamin Bermanis on a journey to find a reclusive but iconic comedian/magician named John Szeles. The rest will amaze you...
Minding the Gap
Skateboarding has re-entered the spotlight in recent years after its initial boom in the 90s. This film outlines the importance of this creative and athletic outlet for three young men growing up in Rockford, IL. For these three kids, it's not just a way to pass the day, it's the only way to get through it.
RBG
Ruth Bader Ginsberg was certainly one of the nation's most inspiring women. A vocal powerhouse in the Supreme Court for women's rights, Ginsberg had a rough time getting to the top. Following her impact on the government, her upbringing, and the people she loves, this movie is one of the most inspirational.
Fyre Fraud
There are a few documentaries chronicling the downfall of the famous Fyre festival, and this one really takes the cake. What was supposed to be a music festival for the richest millennials turned into a survival of the fittest. Hulu's documentary follows how something so promising failed so immensely.
Tiny Shoulders: Rethinking Barbie
Once upon a time, every little girl wanted a Barbie doll. Nowadays, such is not the case. With increasing focus on the body positivity movement, parents want the same self-love to be taught to their children. As the world changes, so do Barbie's measurements. Her shoulders are just too tiny!
Jane
Jane Goodall’s research with chimpanzees has earned critical acclaim in many fields, but sometimes we forget about the woman behind the work. Director Brett Morgen takes a closer look at Goodall's life, early career, time working in Tanzania, and her relationship with her husband Hugo van Lawick.
The First Monday In May
The annual Met Gala is one of the most influential events of the year, especially in the fashion and entertainment industries. This documentary chronicles the lead-up to this event. Creating the exhibit is no easy task though, and there are a lot of people doing a lot of work to make it the masterpiece that it is...
Three Identical Strangers
Imagine walking into class on your first day at college and seeing...you! These triplets were separated by adoption at birth and reunited by chance as adults. With heartbreak, true love, scientific anomalies, and more, this movie will tug at your heartstrings and also leave you scratching your head.
Far from the Tree
No family is alike, and no family member is exactly like another. This documentary takes a closer look at those deemed abnormal by society and their relationships with family. This movie is a great reminder that uniqueness is what makes people special, and love is not something to be earned by conformity.
Dior and I
Nothing is as glamourous or luxurious as it seems. Raf Simons, the head of storied fashion house Dior, struggles to make things work in this intriguing documentary. For people who have an interest in fashion, design, creation, and publishing, this is a closer look into the magic of big corporate beautification.
Murderball
You've never seen sports as intense as in this documentary. Filmed in 2005, this movie takes a closer look at the world of the US quadriplegic rugby team. It even earned the Best Documentary Feature Award at the Oscars the following year. For sports buffs, this is a story you absolutely need to hear...
Gideon's Army
Have you ever wondered about the people defending the little guy in trials? This documentary delves deep into the public defenders in the South. Serving people who can otherwise not afford a private practice lawyer, this documentary is touching, frustrating, and moving in a way you might not expect.
Listen to Me Marlon
Marlon Brando had a prolific career in the film industry, and now, you can hear him in his own words. Using several hours of audiotape recordings, Marlon Brando himself tells the story of how he came to fame. It was nominated for a BAFTA Award in the category of Best Documentary, though it did not win.
Portrait of Jason
Even though 1967 was a different time for LGBTQIA+ representation, that didn't mean that the community wasn't there. This doc follows Jason Holliday, a black gay sex worker trying to make it as a cabaret singer. Shirley Clarke filmed it over only 12 hours, and it is considered groundbreaking for its portrayal of a world no one then knew about.
Stray
Dog lovers, beware of this emotionally moving film. Stray pups wandering the streets of Istanbul, Turkey must fight for survival. While doing this, they forage for food, build relationships with humans, and wander around in search of a safe place to sleep. Get ready to cry watching this one...
To Be and To Have
Teachers are not paid enough, and you'll agree after watching this profile of rural French teacher Georges Lopez. Only 12 kids in his classroom, ages 4 to 11, but still he struggles to make every child feel educated, loved, and important. It takes a village to raise a child, but only one person to teach them.
Newtown
Newtown is a documentary about a town of the same name that suffered a mass shooting in 2012. The resulting death of teachers and students left a shaking impact on what was once a slice of suburbia. "It is as much about the complex, dull horror of memory as it is about the brute, sharp horror of that day," says Vulture's Bilge Ebiri.
Jane Fonda in Five Acts
Jane Fonda was once just an everyday actress, but she couldn't sit by while the world crumbled around her. The public perception of Fonda has had highs and lows, but she has always remained relevant. Following her marriage to a billionaire, her spiraling career, and decades of activism, you'll be on the edge of your seat for act 6.
45365
No, that's not a typo. The number 45365 is actually the zip code for a small town known as Sidney, Ohio. This film was praised for its honest look at life in the midwest for many Americans struggling to make ends meet. Dreams really do differ everywhere in the world, sometimes only a few towns away...
Shirkers
This isn't just a documentary, it's the story of the documentary. When Singaporean filmmaker Sandi Tan came to the states, she met her American mentor, who would later steal her film. This is her tale of reclaiming her work and her story back and taking control of the narrative.
Inside Job
In 2008, the market crashed into America's worst recession since the Great Depression. Across the nation, families worried how they would stay afloat when their finances disappeared. This documentary examines how the boom came to crash, and how America has been crawling its way out of the hole ever since.
Quest
This 2017 film follows a black family trying to raise their child in Philadelphia. Over the course of eight years, watch their daughter grow up before your very eyes and learn about the gripping harsh realities they face. Family is never easy, but it's worth it.
4 Little Girls
This 1997 Spike Lee documentary follows one of history's most underrepresented but harrowing tragedies, the 1963 Alabama church bombing. In this bombing, four young Black girls were killed. The emotional picture earned a nomination for Best Documentary at the 1998 Academy Awards.
Democrats
Guy Lodge from Variety Magazine claimed that “even the slyest political satire couldn’t outdo this riveting docu study of Zimbabwe’s troubled coalition government." This Camilla Nielsson’s documentary covered the political situation in current Zimbabwe, where personal and political interests collided.
The Arbor
Who said a documentary had to be all truth all the time? "The Arbor" uses both fiction and non-fiction to tell the tale of Andrea Dunbar, the acclaimed Bradford playwright. She had a difficult childhood and adolescence in the U.K. Her story will shake you to the very core...
The Last Waltz
If music was king of the 70s, then filmmaking was a loyal member of the court. Martin Scorsese's documentary chronicles the final concert of the iconic rock group The Band. The group takes time to reflect on its legacy as well as the impact the music has made on themselves and the world. One of Scorses's lesser-known works...
Dick Johnson Is Dead
The loss of a father is never easy, so Kirsten Johnson prepared for the worst with her documentary. She processes her father's upcoming death from dementia by imagining all of the other ways he could possibly die. It's a strange look at coping with death through love, humor, and even hope.
Kid 90
Growing up in the 1990s has become the latest trend of young people, but it wasn't always easy. Young celebrities growing up in the spotlight certainly had a rough time. See them in raw, unedited footage that captured what child stardom is really like, both then and now...
This Is Us
One Direction was the biggest band in the world, but they started out as just a couple of kids in a singing competition. Learn about their roots in the documentary concert which takes you behind the scenes of the chart-toppers. If you were the most famous person alive, what could you really do?
Operation Varsity Blues: The College Admissions Scandal
He was supposed to get their kids into top colleges, but instead, he got them all in jail. This documentary follows the career of Rick Singer, who got several celebrity children into top-ranked schools despite their low test scores. Turns out you really can go anywhere you want, as long as you can pay the price...
WeWork: Or the Making and Breaking of a $47 Billion Unicorn
It was supposed to be a revolutionary new way to be your own boss and make new friends, but this company crashed into the ground. Described as a cult, a money machine, and a new way of thinking ended up changing everything. Learn about how it rose and fell all in less than a decade of operation...
Feels Good Man
Underground struggling cartoonist Matt Furie made a little drawing that the internet dubbed Pepe the Frog. What started as a fun-loving character became an overnight symbol of hatred and racism. Furie appears in this documentary to discuss how he had to watch his beloved creation be turned into a metaphor for bigotry right before his very eyes.