Documentariescan offer a fascinating break from the usual fare of scripted shows that Netflix has to offer. Whether you’re looking to learn something new or just delve into a world of drama and intrigue,Netflixhas something for everyone by offering with a wide range of critically acclaimed documentaries. Whether it’s crime or nature, scandal or science, there’s bound to be something to draw your fancy with these 31 best documentaries available now on Netflix.
Updated on June 07, 2025, by Soniya Hinduja: This article has been updated with additional content to keep the discussion fresh and relevant with even more information and new entries.
32American Nightmare (2024)
There’s something aboutsuspenseful true-crime documentariesthat pulls viewers in for hours. Directed by Bernadette Higgins and Felicity Morris,American Nightmareis one such series that documents the kidnapping of Denise Huskins after her home was invaded in 2015. Denise shared the apartment with her boyfriend Aaron Quinn in Vallejo, California, and for a really long time, the police assumed the incident was staged by Denise and Aaron themselves.
Brings to Life a Shocking Case
A sobering revelation of police work and media circus, the case was dubbed a hoax and Denise was labeled as “the real Gone Girl” because of how the events went down. The three-part series infuriates you with its suspense before revealing the final conclusion where a detective connects another home invasion in Dublin with the case and arrests Matthew Muller, the real culprit in both crimes. A genuine stand-out in the genre,American Nightmareis worth watching.
31Formula 1: Drive to Survive (2019)
This Netflix original docuseries is a massive hit withfans of adrenaline-pumping adventuresand fast-lane races. It follows various Formula 1 drivers, managers, and staff during the intense and competitive 2018 Formula One World Championship, with the following five seasons covering the same in consecutive years. Behind-the-scenes access to the races reveals the success and sacrifice required to cruise on the world’s most dangerous tracks.
High-Octane and Exciting
So far, the high-octane sport has always been about being on top and celebrating victory.Formula 1: Drive to Survivecreates intimate portraits of the drivers, newcomers, strategy, rivalry, and machinery in order to provide viewers with the full experience of the races. The fast-paced cinematography paired with the single-episode narrative structure makes for a binge-watching session. Overall, the series stands out because it keeps things real.
30The Look of Silence (2015)
The Look of Silenceis a companion film from the director ofThe Act of Killing. It revisits Indonesia’s mass killings of 1965-1966, but this time, through the eyes of an optometrist named Adi, who is determined to confront the death squad members responsible for his brother, Ramli’s murder. No one could have prepared him for what he learns when he gets there, as his attempt at reconciliation and understanding only leaves him torn and disappointed.
Portrayal of Quiet Courage
Eye-opening and deeply affecting,The Look of Silenceis perhaps the most non-violent quest for truth ever put on screen. Kudos to director Joshua Oppenheimer for capturing the nuance and empathy of an ordeal that was horrific and alarming. In particular, Adi models as a man willing to move past vengeance and seek reflection. Praised by audiences and critics for giving a different side of the story, the documentary is one that will stay in your hearts long after you finish watching.
29Butterfly in the Sky (2022)
An immersive documentary that profiles the journey and impact of PBS’s show Reading Rainbow,Butterfly in the Sky: The Story of Reading Rainbowis directed by Bradford Thomason and Brett Whitcomb. It consists of interviews with show host LeVar Burton, as well as several filmmakers and members of staff as they paint a portrait of education and how television is vital to inspiring children and adults alike.
An Inspiring Story About Education
The title of the documentary is inspired by the 1983 show’s iconic theme song and it offers a magical experience to audiences. Crafted with affection and care, it honors the industry as well as the habit of reading books. The archival footage paired with present-day interviews makes it a well-structured and entertaining documentary about a time that was simple, inspirational, and way more special. As a bonus,it features LeVar Burton, so who really can complain?
28Turning Point: The Bomb and the Cold War (2024)
Spanning nine episodes,Turning Point: The Bomb and the Cold Waris a compelling documentary series thatexamines the aftermath of World War IIand the beginnings of the Cold War through a global lens. It covers everything from the development of the atomic bomb to the cultural and political race it led to, as well as the fall of the Soviet Union, the rise of Vladimir Putin, and the Russian invasion of Ukraine when the fate of humanity was undetermined.
A Re-Examination of History
With the help of first-hand accounts and access to reconstructed conversations with prominent figures,Turning Point: The Bomb and the Cold Waris basically history narrowed down for the understanding of the modern world; an attempt to explain to the new generation why the world they live in is the way it is. Its exploration of certain events is thought-provoking because it re-evaluates long-held perceptions about the bygone era. But at the end of the day, achieving peace and freedom is in our hands.
27Tiger King (2020 – 2021)
A former zookeeper and convicted felon, Joe Exotic owned a big cat park packed with lions, tigers, and bears. He also harbored an unhealthy obsession with Carole Baskin, an animal rights activist with plans of opening her ownbig cat sanctuary to rival Exotic.Tiger Kingtells the tale of rival private zoos, their appalling conditions for both animals and staff, and their bitter hatred of each other, with things just spiraling out from there.
An Unforgettable True Crime Rivalry
Everyone with a Netflix subscription has probably seenTiger Kingby now after it shot to social media heights during the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. But on the off chance you’re one of the five people who didn’t catch it the first time around, it’s still available and simply must be seen to be believed. What begins as an exposé on the illegal, or at best semi-legal, sale of exotic animals, devolves into something else entirely when the filmmakers meet the customers and create a portrait of pure shock and amusement.
26Hot Girls Wanted (2015)
Comedy actress Rashida Jonesturns documentary filmmaker following an online exchange about the pornification of pop culture. Jones looks to dive deeper into the porn industry with this documentary, speaking to the people behind it and the girls who choose to do it. What’s uncovered is a dangerously unregulated industry that chews up and spits out hundreds of 18-year-old girls a year. While some see it as a career choice, the documentary does an excellent job of exposing the under-regulated industry and the exploitation taking place in it.
Offers an Insightful Look at the Industry
Exploring the abuse towards women that has become the basis for some of the most popular porn on the internet and sometimes borders on forced consent behind the scenes. Jones’ involvement in the documentary allows for representation, for viewers to see both the business model and the off-screen vulnerability within the porn world. There is another industry follow-up seriesHot Girls Wanted: Turned Onairing on Netflix. It explores other facets of the industry including women who do porn for empowerment.
25Seaspiracy (2021)
Probably the most hard-hitting documentary about the food industry since the infamous Food Inc,Seaspiracyis now turning anew generation of viewers into vegetarians. The 2021 release directed by British filmmaker Ali Tabrizi takes aim specifically at the fishing industry and how it’s destroying our oceans. It covers a broad range of environmental issues including plastic pollution, ghost nets, and, of course, overfishing, while also pointing a finger at its audience and advocating for an end to marine life consumption altogether.
Eye-Opening Call to Action
Instead of just offering a detailed look at the unsustainable treatment of the ocean through video clips,Seaspiracytakes an investigative approach and examines the fishing industry. It uncovers shocking practices of environmental destruction to bring global attention to the subject. Visually arresting and well-paced, the documentary is thought-provoking and enlightening enough to call for change. The producer’s first film,Cowspiracy,is also available on Netflix, focusing more on the agricultural industry.
24The Last Dance (2020)
One of the more uplifting documentaries on Netflix and amust-watch for all basketball fans.The Last Dancefollows the career of legendary baller Michael Jordan with a particular focus on his last season with the Chicago Bulls in 1997-1998 as the team pursued their 6th championship. The 10-episode series features interviews with other icons of the era and never-before-seen footage of a highly successful season for Jordan, for which he was awarded his fifth and final, Most Valuable Player Award.
Riveting Documentary for Basketball Fans
Capturing one of the sport’s greatest eras is no easy feat, but director Jason Hehir expertly weaves archival footage with present-day interviewers to create an enthralling narrative. Beyond highlights, the series also dives into each player’s psyche and reveals the intense competition and power plays faced by Jordan while being on the team. It celebrates the talent and also shows how much dedication and sacrifice is required to be in the game.The Last Dancewon praise from critics and audiences alike.
23Fyre (2019)
Another social media darling,Fyretells thetale of the infamous Fyre Festival that promisedtravelers the experience of a lifetime only to leave them stranded in emergency relief tents on an empty island. Convicted con man Billy McFarland pulls off one of the biggest frauds of the century and writer-director Chris Smith captured it all on film. It’s almost like a car crash in that you can’t look away as the whole event implodes on itself, but rather than refunding the $1500 tickets, McFarland flies attendees out anyway, knowing they’ll be stranded with no event to be seen.
Must-Watch For Millennials and Gen-Z
From the disarray to the lack of amenities, the disastrous weekend had so many things wrong that the documentary became a cautionary tale for millennials. Apparently, after convincing rapper Ja Rule to co-organize and a host of top influencers like Emily Ratajkowski and Kendall Jenner to promote the ultimate festival on a private island, McFarland even manages to book major acts like Disclosure, Pusha T and Blink 182. The movie encapsulated the generation, its obsession with clout, and the perils of unchecked ambition.
