The 10 Best Netflix Documentaries You Have To See
Netflix is probably the greatest invention since sliced bread. For the average college student, it provides the perfect excuse to push aside your papers and relax, but after weekends full of binge watching, you’ll run through shows and movies pretty quickly. What’s left to watch? It’s not everyone’s go-to category, but Netflix provides a plethora of interesting documentaries. Now hear me out, who wants to watch educational movies in their free time? I get it, but the documentaries on Netflix provide a film for every interest. Passion for politics? They’ve got it covered. Murder-mysteries are more your thing? They’ve got that too. Love for animals? They’ve got enough dog documentaries to last you for weeks. No matter you like, Netflix has a documentary for you. Here’s a list of their top 10 best Netflix documentaries. Seriously, they are the best Netflix documentaries!
1. Blackfish, the story of Tilikum the killer whale.
If you’re a fan of SeaWorld, you might want to skip this one. This film follows the story of Tilikum, the orca responsible for 3 deaths at SeaWorld and addresses the controversy of keeping killer whales in captivity. Blackfish will tug at your heartstrings and make you take another look at the once loved beloved theme park.
2. If you’re looking to start a new diet, What the Health is the film for you
This film takes a look at the connection between diet and disease. Director Kip Andersen tries to uncover the secrets that he says big health corporations don’t want you to know. Put the popcorn down because you are not going to want any after watching this documentary.
3. Netflix Original, 13th, will grab you from the start.
Named for the 13th Amendment of the Constitution, it’s 2016 film that won dozens of awards. 13th looks at the connection between racial inequality and the disproportion of races in prisons. It’s a chilling documentary that will really stop and make you think.
4. I am Bolt is great for sports fans.
If you didn’t already feel lazy for lying in bed all day watching Netflix, you will after this one. Watch how the fastest man on Earth came to earn that title without having to move a muscle.
5. Chasing Coral, enjoy the beauty of the coral reefs from the comforts of your couch.
Another Netflix original that provides you with captivating visuals of some of the most beautiful parts of our ocean. Follow divers down into the depths of the sea to discover why these stunning reefs are starting to disappear. Get all the beauty of a tropical vacation without having to leave your bed.
6. Looking for something a little more heartwarming? Try Precious Puppies.
This short film is exactly what you’ll need after watching all these hard hitting documentaries. And besides, who doesn’t love puppies?
7. If you have more than an hour to kill, watch the docuseries Wormwood.
Only six 40 minute episodes to discover the truth following a son as he tries to uncover the mysterious circumstances of his father’s death. History buffs and mystery-lovers alike will love this one. Grab some snacks and prepare to binge.
8. We’ve explored the sea. Now let’s look at space with The Farthest: Voyager in Space.
Ever wonder what’s going on up there when you look at the stars? This documentary takes a look at NASA’s voyager mission. Maybe the mood landing was fake, but the stunning scenes in this film are not.
9. Dawg Fight is intense and moving.
You don’t need to be a fan of MMA to enjoy this one. This film looks at MMA fighter Dhafir Harris and his experience with bareknuckle fighting in the streets outside Miami. It gives an inside look into a lifestyle you never knew existed.
10. Disney’s Born in China is a great pick for the whole family.
Pandas and monkeys and leopards! Oh my! This fun documentary follows the lives of these animal families as they venture through China.
