The Best Documentaries to Watch
Documentaries have become a powerful medium for storytelling, exposing hidden truths, educating audiences, and sparking global conversations. Whether you’re into true crime, history, science, or social justice, there’s a documentary out there for you. Here are some of the best documentaries to watch right now!
1. The Social Dilemma (2020) – Tech & Social Media
📌 What It’s About: This eye-opening documentary explores the dark side of social media and how algorithms manipulate human behavior. Featuring former tech insiders from Google, Facebook, and Twitter, it reveals the impact of social media addiction and misinformation.
- Why Watch? If you’re curious about how social media influences your thoughts, decisions, and even emotions, this is a must-watch.
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- Source: The Guardian – “The Social Dilemma Review: Unmasking the Power of Social Media”
2. Making a Murderer (2015-2018) – True Crime
📌 What It’s About: This Netflix original follows the controversial case of Steven Avery, a man wrongfully convicted of a crime and later accused of another. The documentary raises serious questions about the U.S. justice system.
- Why Watch? If you love gripping true crime stories with twists and legal drama, this is for you.
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- Source: Rolling Stone – “Why ‘Making a Murderer’ Changed True Crime Documentaries Forever”
3. Seaspiracy (2021) – Environment & Sustainability
📌 What It’s About: This investigative documentary explores the devastating impact of commercial fishing on the ocean’s ecosystem. It exposes illegal fishing practices, corruption, and the environmental damage caused by the seafood industry.
- Why Watch? If you care about marine life and want to understand the truth behind sustainable seafood claims, this is an eye-opener.
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- Source: BBC – “Seaspiracy: The Truth About the Fishing Industry”
4. 13th (2016) – Race & Social Justice
📌 What It’s About: Directed by Ava DuVernay, this documentary explores the history of racial inequality in the U.S. and how the 13th Amendment led to mass incarceration.
- Why Watch? It’s an essential watch for understanding systemic racism and the flaws in the criminal justice system.
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- Source: New York Times – “Why ’13th’ is One of the Most Important Documentaries of Our Time”
5. Planet Earth II (2016) – Nature & Wildlife
📌 What It’s About: Narrated by Sir David Attenborough, this breathtaking documentary series takes viewers deep into nature, exploring different habitats and the incredible creatures that live there.
- Why Watch? If you love stunning cinematography and want to appreciate the beauty of our planet, this is a must-watch.
- Where to Watch: BBC iPlayer, Discovery+
- Source: National Geographic – “Why Planet Earth II is a Masterpiece of Filmmaking”
6. The Last Dance (2020) – Sports & Inspiration
📌 What It’s About: This documentary series chronicles the career of NBA legend Michael Jordan and the rise of the Chicago Bulls dynasty in the 1990s.
- Why Watch? If you’re a sports fan or love motivational stories about greatness, this is an inspiring watch.
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- Source: ESPN – “The Last Dance: Behind the Scenes of Michael Jordan’s Final Season”
7. Our Planet (2019) – Environment & Conservation
📌 What It’s About: Another stunning documentary narrated by David Attenborough, this series highlights the impact of climate change on different ecosystems and species.
- Why Watch? It’s both visually stunning and educational, raising awareness about conservation and sustainability.
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- Source: World Wildlife Fund (WWF) – “Our Planet: Why This Documentary Matters”
