TECH REVIEWStech-reviewsTV and Movie Streamingtv-and-movie-streaming

70 Best Documentaries on Netflix You Should Watch in 2022

best documentaries on netflix

“Netflix and chill” almost always entails putting on a TV show or movie on the telly, but what about those nights when such programs just don’t cut it? Documentaries may be your answer, and there are plenty of options to choose from on Netflix. Below is our list of the 70 best documentaries on Netflix of all time.

 

70 Best Documentaries on Netflix

  1. 13th
  2. Abducted In Plain Sight
  3. Amanda Knox
  4. American Factory
  5. American Murder: The Family Next Door
  6. Athlete A
  7. Audrie & Daisy
  8. The Bleeding Edge
  9. Casting JonBenet
  10. Catwalk: Tales From The Cat Show Circuit
  11. Challenger: The Final Flight
  12. Cheer
  13. Chef’s Table
  14. Conversations With A Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes
  15. Crip Camp
  16. David Attenborough: A Life On Our Planet
  17. Dirty Money
  18. Don’t F**K With Cats
  19. Evil Genius
  20. Five Came Back
  21. Formula 1: Drive To Survive
  22. Fyre: The Greatest Party That Never Happened
  23. Get Me Roger Stone
  24. The Great Hack
  25. High Score
  26. Homecoming: A Film By Beyonce
  27. Hot Girls Wanted
  28. I Called Him Morgan
  29. Icarus
  30. Inside The World’s Toughest Prisons
  31. Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich
  32. Jim & Andy: The Great Beyond
  33. Joan Didion: The Center Will Not Hold
  34. The Keepers
  35. Killer Inside: The Mind Of Aaron Hernandez
  36. Knock Down The House
  37. Last Chance U: Basketball
  38. The Last Dance
  39. Making A Murderer
  40. Mercury 13
  41. Miss Americana
  42. Mucho Mucho Amor: The Legend Of Walter Mercado
  43. Murder Among The Mormons
  44. My Octopus Teacher
  45. Night Stalker: The Hunt For A Serial Killer
  46. One Of Us
  47. Operation Varsity Blues: The College Admissions Scandal
  48. Our Planet
  49. Pandemic: How To Prevent An Outbreak
  50. Power Of Grayskull: The Definitive History Of He-Man And The Masters Of The Universe
  51. Quincy
  52. The Ripper
  53. Rotten
  54. Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat
  55. Seaspiracy
  56. Shirkers
  57. The Social Dilemma
  58. Strong Island
  59. The Speed Cubers
  60. The Staircase
  61. They’ll Love Me When I’m Dead
  62. Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem And Madness
  63. The Toys That Made Us
  64. Ugly Delicious
  65. Unsolved Mysteries
  66. Virunga
  67. Voyeur
  68. What Happened, Miss Simone?
  69. The White Helmets
  70. Wild Wild Country

 

1. 13th

13th
Photo from Netflix

One of the best documentaries on Netflix is 13th, which follows the events that unfolded after the 13th amendment’s passage. It details the systemic racism experienced by Black Americans — and it’s not just a product of culture. Instead, 13th goes deeper to expose how racism is, in fact, profitable and financially motivated. Moreover, it uncovers how the government, media, and businesses all played a part in perpetuating a new form of slavery.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

2. Abducted in Plain Sight

Abducted In Plain Sight
Photo from Netflix

If you like disturbing true-crime narratives, Abducted in Plain Sight. This documentary tells the story of Jan, the daughter of the Broberg family, who was kidnapped two times. Moreover, these abductions were committed by the same person: their neighbor Robert ‘B’ Berchtold. Abducted in Plain Sight might seem like an ordinary true-crime documentary at first sight, but the methods used and events that unfold are certainly chilling—even almost wildly insane.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

3. Amanda Knox 

Amanda Knox 
Photo from Netflix

Amanda Knox offers a fascinating investigation to look into: the case of Amanda Knox and her roommate’s murder. The investigation eventually turns towards Amanda Knox as a possible perpetrator, chronicling the deep-seated misogyny within the media. It’s certainly one of the best documentaries on Netflix and one that’ll keep you interested throughout. 

Watch Now on Netflix

 

4. American Factory

American Factory
Photo from Netflix

The summit of an iceberg only portrays one small part of an unimaginably larger whole. Likewise, large enterprises and corporations only display their success and power while maintaining a friendly facade towards the masses. However, deep within lies exploitation, greed, and a ruthless culture that devalues its foundation — its skilled labor force. This exposure is perhaps the reason why American Factory is one of the best documentaries on Netflix. In addition to this, the documentary also unmasks the lie that is the American Dream and the threat of automation.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

5. American Murder: The Family Next Door

American Murder The Family Next Door
Photo from Netflix

American Murder: The Family Next Door documents the 2018 murder of the Watts family and exposes just how twisted the whole fiasco was. 

The documentary creatively uses multiple sources like home videos, texts, recordings, and social media posts to weave the narrative. These only add to the horror of the events, starting from the disappearance of Shanann Watts and her two children. Moreover, the film’s emphasis and intentional focus on the victims make it that much more compelling. Overall, the documentary brilliantly portrays toxic American relationships and the deceptive nature of social media.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

6. Athlete A

Athlete A
Photo from Netflix

Sometimes, even hundreds of victims and witnesses are unable to receive justice, even if it’s against just one man. Thankfully, one of the best documentaries on Netflix steps up to hold one man accountable for his crimes. 

Athlete A is the story of Maggie Nichols, one out of over 500 female assault victims. She goes up against Larry Nassar, a gymnastics trainer and the perpetrator of this abuse. The film chronicles the incident in 2015, along with the local newspapers that propelled the scandal into the national spotlight.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

7. Audrie & Daisy

Audrie & Daisy
Photo from Netflix

Audrie & Daisy is not for the faint-hearted, touching on the difficult issues of sexual assault, abuse, and suicide. This documentary recounts the story of 15-year-old Audrie and 14-year-old Daisy, who were relentlessly cyberbullied after video footage of their sexual assault was released online. Within the documentary, Daisy attempted to reach out to Audrie, only to learn that she had already committed suicide. 

This documentary captures both the horrors of abuse and the failures of the institutions meant to protect victims.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

8. The Bleeding Edge

The Bleeding Edge
Photo from Netflix

The Bleeding Edge chronicles and exposes the horrors and filth embedded in the medical device industry. If you’re unaware, roughly 70 million Americans are told they need a medical device implanted in their bodies every year

While this industry is largely beneficial to mankind to an extent, what lies beneath its altruistic veneer is truly sinister. That’s because many of the devices and procedures haven’t even been tested. What’s worse is that the medical institutions we trust, like healthcare practitioners and the FDA, are complicit in the act.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

9. Casting JonBenet

Casting JonBenet
Photo from Netflix

Casting JonBenet is a documentary that follows the tragic murder of JonBenét Ramsey in 1996, a case that continues to go unresolved to this day. This documentary goes beyond the details and circumstances surrounding the homicide to paint a realistic picture of how it impacted JonBenét’s family and community.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

10. Catwalk: Tales From the Cat Show Circuit

Catwalk
Photo from Netflix

Cat lovers, this one’s for you: Catwalk: Tales From the Cat Show Circuit covers Canada’s catwalks competitions, where actual cats are the stars of the show. Contrary to expectations, the film isn’t just adorable but also quite memorable and entertaining. It’ll certainly keep your attention as you watch two cat owners struggle to get their cats to cooperate with them.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

11. Challenger: The Final Flight

Challenger The Final Flight
Photo from Netflix

It’s not often you find a documentary on Netflix that tackles a topic with less intrigue and mystery. However, the Challenger: The Final Flight is sure to keep your interest nonetheless. It looks back on the events of 1986 when NASA’s Space Shuttle Challenger failed and exploded, and also the aftermath of the disaster.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

12. Cheer

Cheer
Photo from Netflix

Cheerleading is an integral part of America’s high school culture, and Cheer does a pretty insightful deep dive into this beloved national activity. This documentary certainly brings newfound respect and appreciation for the sport as it beautifully portrays the making of a team.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

13. Chef’s Table

Chef’s Table
Photo from Netflix

In an age before ours, food might have been considered a simple necessity for survival. However, times have changed and it has become an art form and strict discipline in the culinary world. That’s what Chef’s Table portrays as it examines six world-renowned chefs and their journey to become who they are today. If you enjoy the art of food, this is certainly one of the best documentaries on Netflix to watch.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

14. Conversations With a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes

Conversations With A Killer
Photo from Netflix

Conversations With A Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes follows the well-known serial killer Ted Bundy and the conversations people had with him during the investigations. This documentary takes a unique spin on the case, contrasting Ted’s description of himself against how those who had interacted with him perceived him. It’s certainly a fascinating film to watch and one that’s famous among many fans of crime documentaries.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

15. Crip Camp

Crip Camp
Photo from Netflix

Fighting for the rights of the disabled is more widespread today. Things weren’t always like this in the past, however; a fact that Crip Camp showcases through its chronicle of the lives of activists for the disabled. This documentary follows their relentless fight for equality, and the arduous struggle it took to pass simple legislation. 

Watch Now on Netflix

 

16. David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet

David Attenborough A Life On Our Planet
Photo from Netflix

Living in an age of global warming, David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet is definitely a must-watch. It draws attention to David Attenborough’s life as he details the changes in the environment throughout his lifetime. Moreover, it’s also a shocking wake-up call, showing how humanity has wreaked havoc and destroyed nature almost irreversibly. 

Watch Now on Netflix

 

17. Dirty Money

Dirty Money
Photo from Netflix

A story about corruption and greed in the business and financial worlds is, unfortunately, nothing new to us. However, this doesn’t mean that it shouldn’t be stopped, a fact expounded by Dirty Money. This documentary exposes the corruption rife in various industries, including the pharmaceutical, financial, and automotive industries. What’s worse is that these criminals in suits tend to get away with their actions through power and greed.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

18. Don’t F**K With Cats

Dont fuck With Cats
Photo from Netflix

Don’t F**K With Cats opens on a group of cat lovers who band together to take action against a man who nonchalantly kills two cats on camera in cold blood. Their investigations lead them down a very dark road, as Luka Rocco Magnotta, the perpetrator, ups the ante by murdering 33-year-old Chinese student Lin Jun. This man’s sickening thirst for fame further motivates him to commit necrophilia on Lin Jun’s corpse before dismembering it.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

19. Evil Genius

Evil Genius
Phot from Netflix

Evil Genius is a true-crime documentary that opens on a pizza delivery man who dies in an attempt to rob a bank with a bomb wrapped around his neck. What starts as a crime gone wrong leads investigators down a dark and twisted path, as the case proves itself to be not as clear-cut as it originally appears.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

20. Five Came Back

Five Came Back
Photo from Netflix

Five Came Back is a docuseries about five filmmakers who contributed to various documentaries during WWII. It chronicles their experiences making documentaries to train troops, garner support, and bring attention to the horrors the war brought. It also covers the lives of these iconic filmmakers and how they changed forever through those experiences.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

21. Formula 1: Drive to Survive

Formula 1 Drive To Survive
Photo from Netflix

Formula 1: Drive to Survive details the events of the Formula 1 World Championships in 2018 and 2019. Watch as tensions rise and competition brews within the docuseries as it documents one of the most beloved sports worldwide. 

Watch Now on Netflix

 

22. Fyre: The Greatest Party That Never Happened

Fyre
Photo from Netflix

The Fyre Festival was a well-known disaster that served as inspiration for Fyre: The Greatest Party That Never Happened. This documentary focuses on Billy McFarland, the main organizer, as he fails to bring this supposed masterpiece of a party to fruition. Watch as the purportedly “greatest party” was utterly mismanaged and brought about chaos thanks to his overconfidence. 

Watch Now on Netflix

 

23. Get Me Roger Stone

Get Me Roger Stone
Photo from Netflix

One of the most shocking events in US politics was the presidential election of Donald Trump. However, what is, perhaps, even greater of a shock is the man behind the ordeal: Roger Stone. Get Me Roger Stone falls under the category of controversial politics, this particular documentary daring to suggest that Roger Stone, the Republican political strategist, is the mastermind behind Trump’s presidential election strategy.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

24. The Great Hack

The Great Hack
Photo from Netflix

There have been many scandals throughout history, but the Cambridge Analytica scandal is one unique to our time. It involves political and data science, the sketchy use of data, and a $5 billion fine to Facebook. The scandal shook the tech industry and forever altered Facebook’s reputation. 

As a result, The Great Hack is unsurprisingly popular as it divulges the details of that event. Moreover, it’s all the more compelling because it’s told from the perspective of the whistleblower, among other people related to Cambridge Analytica.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

25. High Score

High Score
Photo from Netflix

We have the rise of technology and the digital age to thank for the modern-day video game industry. However, it wasn’t always like this as video games came from humble beginnings and evolved. 

If you’re interested in its history, then High Score is a fantastic watch for you. It closely examines video games, their origins, and their evolution from arcades to consoles.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

26. Homecoming: A Film by Beyonce

Homecoming
Photo from Netflix

Modern-day celebrity icon Beyonce created her own film: Homecoming: A Film by Beyonce. This documentary takes a look at all the happenings behind the curtain at Beyonce’s 2018 Coachella performance. It’s certainly a stunning watch, especially if you’re a fan of the artist. Moreover, it’s all the more interesting because she wrote, directed, and produced the documentary herself.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

27. Hot Girls Wanted

Hot Girls Wanted
Photo from Netflix

There is, unsurprisingly, a lot of money in the porn industry. However, something that’s great for business oftentimes isn’t necessarily great for the humans and workers themselves. Hot Girls Wanted portrays just that as it follows 18 and 19-year-old women’s venture into amateur porn. As you dive into their worlds, it portrays the darker side of things and the toxicity in the career path.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

28. I Called Him Morgan

I Called Him Morgan
Photo from Netflix

I Called Him Morgan recalls the unstable relationship between a saxophonist, Lee Morgan, and his wife, Helen. The story is told from Helen’s point of view based on her pre-death interview in 1996. It illustrates a grim tale about Lee Morgan and the violent events that preceded the downfall of his music career.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

29. Icarus

Icarus
Photo from Netflix

Bryan Fogel initially wanted to test the effectiveness of the Haute Route race’s drug testing. However, through his experiment with doping, he finds himself falling deeper and deeper into one of the sports’ biggest scandals. Icarus explores Fogel’s doping scandal and is positively dark, interesting, and thrilling to watch throughout.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

30. Inside The World’s Toughest Prisons

Inside The World’s Toughest Prisons
Photo from Netflix

The title of this documentary says it all: Inside the World’s Toughest Prisons chronicles the experiences of two journalists who voluntarily become inmates. Afterward, they’re plunged into a world of brutality and intimidation, exposing what goes on in the world’s toughest prisons.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

31. Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich

jefffrey epstein filthy rich
Photo from Netflix

Scandals abound in the circles of the filthy rich and famous. However, no one is still prepared whenever they do happen among well-known figures of society. That’s why Jeffrey Epstein’s conviction as a sexual offender still shook the world in 2019. Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich goes beyond Epstein’s arrest, life, and mentality to hone in on the survivors of his abuse and the stories they bravely share. 

Watch Now on Netflix

 

32. Jim & Andy: The Great Beyond

Jim & Andy The Great Beyond
Photo from Netflix

Method acting is a well-known technique in Hollywood, but it isn’t always examined in detail. Jim & Andy: The Great Beyond changes that by exposing films of Jim Carrey’s method-acting for Man on the Moon. It’s certainly fascinating to watch, especially with the contrast between footage and 2017 interviews with Jim Carrey.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

33. Joan Didion: The Center Will Not Hold

Joan Didion The Center Will Not Hold
Photo from Netflix

Journalists are often the voices and writers behind what we see and read in the media. Hence, it’s not often that you find biographical documentaries about the journalists themselves. Joan Didion: The Center Will Not Hold is exactly that. It chronicles the life of Joan Didion, a journalist-novelist who was in her prime during the 60s and 70s. What’s also interesting about this documentary is the fact it was filmed by her actor-director nephew, Griffin Dunne.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

34. The Keepers

The Keepers
Photo from Netflix

The Keepers focuses on a nun named Sister Cathy Cesnik who disappeared and was later found murdered. However, this documentary is no ordinary tale of the disappearance and murder of a religious figure. 

Instead, there’s something more sinister behind her death as the documentary unveils the reason behind her murder. Cathy had discovered that two priests were sexually abusing girls at an all-girls high school. She was subsequently silenced for trying to bring the crime to light.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

35. Killer Inside: The Mind of Aaron Hernandez

Killer Inside The Mind Of Aaron Hernandez
Photo from Netflix

Money and success in your area of expertise do not always guarantee a straight-laced life. At least, that’s the case in the life of Aaron Hernandez, a successful American football player for football’s best team. 

Killer Inside: The Mind Of Aaron Hernandez explores Hernandez’s psyche and examines the question: why? How and why does a high-profile man like this commit cold-blooded murder? Whether you’re a fan of football or not, this documentary is certainly worth a watch, even despite its flaws.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

36. Knock Down the House

Knock Down The House
Photo from Netflix

Knock Down the House shines the spotlight on four women—including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez—in their quest to change US politics following Donald Trump’s rise to the presidency in 2016. These four people sought change, and change they did find. As a result of their efforts, more candidates popped up for both Congress and the Senate in 2018. What’s more, these aren’t just any ordinary candidates, but candidates from less represented groups like ethnic minorities and women.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

37. Last Chance U: Basketball

Last Chance U Basketball
Photo from Netflix

From the creators of Cheer, Last Chance U: Basketball is another sports documentary that focuses on another aspect of American high school culture: basketball. Follow D1 basketball players from East Los Angeles College in this heart-warming, humorous, and dramatic documentary.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

38. The Last Dance

The Last Dance
Photo from Netflix

The Last Dance is one documentary you don’t want to miss if you’re a fan of basketball and Michael Jordan. That’s because this ten-episode docuseries recounts his final season with the Chicago Bulls while also revisiting his earlier years. 

There’s a constant back-and-forth between the past and the present that puts everything into perspective much more. Even non-fans might find Jordan’s determination and athleticism amazing regardless of how they viewed him previously. 

Watch Now on Netflix

 

39. Making a Murderer

Making A Murderer
Photo from Netflix

Making a Murderer is a classic true-crime documentary that recounts the life of Steven Avery and his arrest, imprisonment, and trials for the murder of Teresa Halbach. This documentary is credited for being a pioneer of the true-crime genre, setting the tone for many other crime documentaries produced today.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

40. Mercury 13

Mercury 13
Photo from Netflix

Mercury 13 recalls the life of women in the 60s who underwent rigorous training to become astronauts. However, their dreams were shattered due to the vile sexism so rampant in society at the time. As a result, most people won’t remember who these women were, as they were effectively erased from history. To honor their dedication and expose the prejudice at the time, Mercury 13 gives a voice to their stories.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

41. Miss Americana

Miss Americana
Photo from Netflix

While Miss Americana places Taylor Swift front and center, this documentary is not focused on music. Instead, it zooms in on Taylor Swift herself, who she is, and her thoughts over the years. Specifically, this documentary recounts her struggle as she tries to stop caring about other people’s opinions. Throughout the film, you see her slowly evolve into a feminist and a more politically expressive person. It’s truly fascinating to watch, especially given Taylor Swift’s current fame and cultural prominence. 

Watch Now on Netflix

 

42. Mucho Mucho Amor: The Legend of Walter Mercado

Mucho Mucho Amor
Photo from Netflix

Mucho Mucho Amor: The Legend Of Walter Mercado is a biographical documentary that pays tribute to the famed Puerto Rican astrologer who always appeared in flamboyant outfits. The documentary celebrates him, his life, and his showmanship all while revealing his vulnerability as a human being.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

43. Murder Among the Mormons

Murder Among The Mormons
Photo from Netflix

Murder Among the Mormons takes you back in time to October 1985 in Salt Lake City. Selling rare Mormon documents was a profitable endeavor, but two people died trying to make a quick buck through this method. Subsequently, Mark Hoffman, a man skilled at discovering historical documents used against the Mormon church, was severely injured. This documentary examines these incidents and explains the events that unfold afterward.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

44. My Octopus Teacher

My Octopus Teacher
Photo from Netflix

My Octopus Teacher showcases the beauty of nature through the eyes of Craig Foster, who goes snorkeling in South Africa and encounters a majestic octopus. Afterward, Craig commits to meeting the octopus every day to learn about it and its way of life. Throughout the documentary, you’ll find many beautifully captured underwater shots and the wonder of life under the sea.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

45. Night Stalker: The Hunt for a Serial Killer

Night Stalker
Photo from Netflix

Serial killers have always fascinated the public, their motivations and actions terrifying people both in fiction and real life. Night Stalker: The Hunt for a Serial Killer is a documentary that follows one such killer. 

This documentary focuses on Richard Ramirez, a serial killer in California who was at large back in the 80s. It is largely told from the investigators’ perspective, where they expressed their frustration at trying to catch Ramirez.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

46. One of Us

One Of Us
Photo from Netflix

Hasidism isn’t a very well-known branch of Orthodox Judaism, at least not by name. However, you may recognize it based on its iconic round beaver-like hats. Regardless of what you know, however, One of Us is sure to interest you. It recounts the stories of three defectors from the religion: a teenager, an aspiring actor, and a homemaker. The documentary tackles all their experiences: their faith, what they discover, and what they leave behind.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

47. Operation Varsity Blues: The College Admissions Scandal

Operation Varsity Blues
Photo from Netflix

Documentaries aren’t all about tales of ages past. In fact, some of them tackle recent topics like Operation Varsity Blues: The College Admissions Scandal does. This documentary focuses on a scandal that occurred in 2019. 

If you’re unaware, the college admissions scandal was an FBI investigation into college admissions. It was a huge deal because big names, specifically actresses Lori Loughlin and Felicity Huffman, were convicted. However, the documentary focuses not on the convicts but the key perpetrator: Rick Singer. 

Watch Now on Netflix

 

48. Our Planet

Our Planet
Photo from Netflix

Our Planet tackles nature and climate change, serving as a stunning exposé with a big-picture perspective on nature and its beauty. It’s also a wake-up call to climate change and the importance of preserving our planet’s beauty before it’s too late.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

49. Pandemic: How to Prevent an Outbreak

Pandemic
Photo from Netflix

It may be a little on the nose, but Pandemic: How to Prevent an Outbreak is certainly a must-watch. This six-part docuseries strives to portray what it takes to prevent a pandemic—something we should have done for COVID-19. What’s even more chilling is the fact that its release was aptly timed, only three weeks after COVID-19’s first report.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

50. Power of Grayskull: The Definitive History of He-Man and the Masters of the Universe

Power Of Grayskull
Photo by Netflix

The title of this documentary is self-explanatory and delivers exactly what it says. Power of Grayskull focuses on He-Man’s history, rise, and fall. If you’re a fan of the hero, this is certainly one of the best documentaries on Netflix for you. However, even non-fans might find it fascinating to watch the creative process, industry changes, and how franchises come to life.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

51. Quincy

Quincy
Photo from Netflix

If you’re interested in music and the industry’s top performers, Quincy is the documentary for you. This documentary recounts the life of the eponymous Quincy Jones, a world-renowned composer, producer, and musician. Produced by his daughter Rashida Jones, this documentary is inspiring and compelling to watch.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

52. The Ripper

Ripper
Photo from Netflix

The Ripper covers the Yorkshire Ripper, a serial killer whose name is inspired by Jack the Ripper because of their commonality of targeting women. However, unlike Jack the Ripper, the Yorkshire Ripper was caught and revealed to be someone right under the police’s noses. 

Watch Now on Netflix

 

53. Rotten

Rotten
Photo from Netflix

Food documentaries aren’t always about chefs and the art of culinary. Rotten, for one, focuses on the messiness of the food industry and what goes on behind the scenes. From garlic lobbyists to hormone-induced chicken, the documentary exposes a variety of dirty food scandals. Moreover, it also shows the startling reality of why rich countries like the US can even afford food security.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

54. Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat

Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat
Photo from Netflix

The foundations of the culinary arts rely on four main elements: Salt, Fat, Acid, and Heat. At least, that’s what famous author and chef, Samin Nosrat, claims. In this documentary, she travels internationally and tests her theory, exploring various cuisines and how these elements make them great. 

Watch Now on Netflix

 

55. Seaspiracy

Seaspiracy
Photo from Netflix

Human greed and selfishness have no bounds when it comes to meeting our basic needs. Unfortunately, not everyone believes just how destructive we are to Mother Nature. In Seaspiracy, we see just how much human “progress” and industry have damaged the oceans of the world.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

56. Shirkers

Shirkers
Photo from Netflix

Your first project as a filmmaker is always one of the most memorable. However, if someone steals your hard work and makes off with it, it becomes even more unforgettable. That’s exactly what Shirkers is about. It follows Sandi Tan, a now successful filmmaker and novelist, who recounts the memories of her stolen project. Named after her original work, Shirkers dives into the details of the event and Sandi’s life and journey.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

57. The Social Dilemma

The Social Dilemma
Photo from Netflix

Social media might be a fairly recent phenomenon, but that doesn’t mean it hasn’t drastically changed the world. In fact, The Social Dilemma posits that it’s social media that is the driving force behind many aspects of society. This includes the polarizing nature of modern-day politics, mental health issues, and many other deeply disturbing effects of social media. However, while some of it is slightly exaggerated, it’s worth watching to seriously examine social media’s impact on cultures the world over.

Watch Now on Netflix

58. Strong Island

Strong Island
Photo from Netflix

Strong Island is a true-crime documentary that follows the murder of Yance Ford’s brother. A personal project designed to emotionally appeal to its audience, this documentary genuinely examines the victim’s life and family before delving into the horrific details of his murder.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

59. The Speed Cubers

The Speed Cubers
Photo from Netflix

A more lighthearted documentary on our list is The Speed Cubers. It follows one peculiar yet interesting hobby: competitive Rubix cubing. This short documentary centers around Felix Zemdegs and Max Park, two of the best competitive Rubix cubers worldwide. However, while you might expect competitors to become heated rivals, they become friends in a refreshing subversion of expectations. Both their friendship and the sport take the stage in this wonderfully heartwarming documentary. 

Watch Now on Netflix

 

60. The Staircase

The Staircase
Photo from Netflix

If you haven’t gotten enough of true-crime documentaries, then The Staircase should be next on your watchlist. It follows the haunting and iconic story of Kathleen Peterson in murder mystery format.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

61. They’ll Love Me When I’m Dead

They’ll Love Me When I’m Dead
Photo from Netflix

They’ll Love Me When I’m Dead covers the turbulent creation of Orson Welles’s final, unfinished film The Other Side of The Wind, which was released in November 2018 following a series of legal battles. It is through the chaos of the creation process that Welles’s frenetic final years, when he was beset by financial difficulties, are explored.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

62. Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem, and Madness

Tiger King
Photo from Netflix

At first glance, Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness seems to be about Joe Exotic’s big cat zoo. However, the docuseries quickly switches from a documentary about a zoo into mayhem, with deception, weapons, and even a murder-for-hire factoring into the equation. It’s certainly stranger than what you’d expect but entertaining nevertheless.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

63. The Toys That Made Us

The Toys That Made Us
Photo from Netflix

Toys mold our minds and impact our childhood more than we know. However, the making and history behind those toys are often forgotten or left unknown. In The Toys That Made Us, we discover precisely exactly what makes toys like Barbie, G.I. Joe, and Lego such enduring icons in living memory. Discover everything you love about your nostalgic favorites in this wonderfully made documentary.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

64. Ugly Delicious

Ugly Delicious
Photo from Netflix

Join David Chang as he explores food through travel and uncovers its relationship to culture in Ugly Delicious. How is a pizza perceived to Italians compared to those who want simple take-out in America? Why is taco the way it is and what truly makes a taco, a taco? These are the important questions he explores in this mouthwatering documentary.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

65. Unsolved Mysteries

Unsolved Mysteries
Photo from Netflix

Unsolved Mysteries is an all-in-one true-crime documentary that explores a variety of unsolved cases. These cold cases are often left open-ended, leaving much room for any number of hypotheses and deductions. Just make sure you have enough free time to fall into this rabbit hole.

Watch Now on Netflix

66. Virunga 

Virunga
Photo from Netflix

Virunga promises to tug at your heartstrings, as it follows a group of rangers who are dedicated to saving Africa’s most beloved national parks and its endangered gorillas. There’s greed from oil companies, poachers, and all sorts of devious acts that stand in the way.

Watch Now on Netflix

67. Voyeur

Voyeur
Photo from Netflix

Interesting yet disturbing—this is perhaps the best description for Voyeur. It follows Gerald Foos, a Colorado motel owner who spies on his patrons. The premise itself is disturbing, a tone set by the documentary to invite criticism against the relationship between subjects and journalists.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

68. What Happened, Miss Simone?

What Happened, Miss Simone
Photo from Netflix

The life of Nina Simone is complex and controversial, but that’s what makes it all the more intriguing. Through What Happened, Miss Simone?, we see her life depicted in all its fullness through interviews and performances. It’s certainly a must-watch, especially for fans of the singer-composer and activist, Miss Simone herself.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

69. The White Helmets

The White Helmets
Photo from Netflix

War certainly destroys lives—and not just the victims alone. In The White Helmets, the spotlight is cast on first responders who are deployed to rescue victims in war-ridden Syria. Through great distress and difficulty, they achieve their goal even as they worry for their own families.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

70. Wild Wild Country

Wild Wild Country
Photo from Netflix

Cult documentaries are always interesting and Wild Wild Country is no different. It follows Indian guru Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh and the large scandal that ensued after he purchased land in Oregon. The documentary is certainly taxing — asking for six hours of your time — but it’s entertaining nonetheless.

Watch Now on Netflix

 

Happy Watching!

The best documentaries on Netflix range from a multitude of genres so you’ll never run out of any interesting topics. There are documentaries about crime, food, curious biological and natural phenomena, and even the supernatural. Regardless of which suits your tastes, there’s bound to be one that is perfect for a lazy afternoon at home. 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *