Netflix has a full selection of documentary movies that are as exciting, heart-wrenching and action-packed as any fictional adventure movie. In fact, many documentary films have higher ratings than any fictional films on the site. How can you go wrong with a Netflix Original series like Making A Murderer or a non-Netflix exclusive like The White Helmets?
If you’re looking for some good documentary movies to watch on Netflix, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve put together a list of our top 10 best documentary movies on Netflix, so you can choose what to watch based on your interests.
1. The White Helmets
The White Helmets is a documentary film that follows the work of the Syrian Civil Defense, also known as the White Helmets. The film focuses on the everyday heroism of these first responders who risk their lives to save others in Syria’s ongoing civil war.
The White Helmets is an incredibly powerful and moving film that provides a rare glimpse into the human side of Syria’s conflict. The film is both heart-wrenching and inspiring, and it is sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers.
2. Off The Rails
Off the Rails is a 2016 American documentary film about autistic subway conductor Aubrey Plaza. The film had its world premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival on April 13, 2016.
Aubrey Plaza is an autistic man who has been working as a New York City subway conductor for over 20 years. He’s never had a single accident, and he’s beloved by his passengers. But when the MTA begins to phase out conductors in favor of automation, Aubrey’s job is suddenly in jeopardy.
Off the Rails is an intimate portrait of a man fighting for his livelihood, and it offers a fascinating look at what it means to be autistic in today’s world.
3. 13th
We often think of documentaries as being educational or informative, and while many of the best ones are, there are plenty that are simply entertaining. The following list is of our favorite documentary movies currently available on Netflix, ranging from heart-wrenching to hilarious.
“13th” is a 2016 American documentary film by director Ava DuVernay. The film explores the history of racial inequality in the United States, focusing on the “Thirteenth Amendment”, which abolished slavery. It features interviews with politicians, activists, and scholars, who discuss how race relations have changed over time, and how they continue to be a problem in America today.
The film has been praised for its thought-provoking examination of racism in America, and has won numerous awards, including an Oscar nomination for Best Documentary Feature.
4. The Keepers
If you’re looking for a good documentary to watch on Netflix, “The Keepers” is a great choice. The film tells the story of the Catholic Church’s sexual abuse scandal through the eyes of those who were affected by it. The film is eye-opening and heartbreaking, and it will leave you wondering how something like this could happen.
5. Audrie & Daisy
Audrie & Daisy is a 2016 American documentary film directed by Bonni Cohen and Jon Shenk about the 2012 Steubenville High School rape case. The film follows the stories of Audrie Pott, a 15-year-old girl who was raped by three boys at a party, and Daisy Coleman, a 14-year-old girl who was raped by a 17-year-old boy. Both girls were subjected to online bullying after their rapes.
The film explores the culture of sexual assault in America and how social media can be used to victimize young girls. It also examines the role of alcohol in contributing to sexual assault.
While the film does not condone the actions of the boys who raped Audrie and Daisy, it does attempt to understand why they did it. It also seeks to explain how something like this could happen in today’s society.
6. What Happened, Miss Simone?
In the early 1960s, Nina Simone was one of the most popular live performers in the world. She was also a civil rights activist, and her song “Mississippi Goddam” became an anthem of the Civil Rights movement. In 1967, she recorded “I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel to Be Free,” which would become one of her signature songs.
Simone’s career began to decline in the 1970s, and she struggled with mental health issues and addiction. She died in 2003 at the age of 70.
The 2015 documentary “What Happened, Miss Simone?” examines Simone’s life and career, using interviews with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as archival footage and recordings. The film won the Best Music Film Grammy Award in 2016.
7. Hunting Season
This is the time of year when many of us take to the woods in search of that perfect trophy buck. But for those who prefer to stay indoors, there are still plenty of great options for entertainment. Here are our top best documentary movies on Netflix that are sure to get you in the hunting spirit.
The first film on our list is “Brotherhood of the Wolf.” This film follows a group of hunters in France who set out to track down a legendary creature that is terrorizing the countryside. With stunning visuals and an intriguing story, this film is sure to please any fan of hunting documentaries.
9. Redemption
If you’re looking for something a bit more light-hearted, then be sure to check out “You’ve Been Trumped.” This documentary follows Donald Trump as he attempts to build a luxury golf resort in Scotland. However, he soon finds himself up against fierce opposition from locals who are determined to stop him. This film provides a fascinating look at how one man’s ego can impact an entire community.
10. The Ivory Game
This 2016 documentary takes a look at the illegal ivory trade and the poaching of elephants for their tusks. It follows undercover investigators as they try to stop this illegal trade, and highlights the devastating impact it has on elephant populations.
11. Abstract: The Art Of Design
In Abstract: The Art of Design, world-renowned designers offer a never-before-seen look at their creative process and how they approach design challenges.
Through in-depth interviews, we get to know these artists and learn about their influences, their thought process, and what drives them to create. We also get an inside look at some of the most iconic designs of our time, from Nike’s Air Jordan sneakers to the Coca-Cola bottle.
Whether you’re a design aficionado or just curious about how great design is created, this series is sure to inspire and educate.
12. Dear Zachary: A Letter To A Son About His Father
When Kurt Kuenne’s best friend, Andrew Bagby, is murdered by his ex-girlfriend Shirley Turner, Kuenne sets out to make a documentary about Bagby’s life. The film chronicles the events leading up to and after the murder, as well as Turner’s trial. It also features interviews with those who knew both Bagby and Turner.
“Dear Zachary: A Letter To A Son About His Father” is a powerful and moving documentary that will stay with you long after you watch it.