Documentaries have the extraordinary ability to make us stop for a moment, dwell, and question everything we thought we understood about the world. Whether it’s the complexities of human behavior, the evil side of technology, or remarkable survival stories, these films take us to new universes. And, let’s be honest: sometimes the truth is weirder than fiction. So grab your popcorn, relax down, and enjoy these must-see best documentaries to watch on Netflix and Amazon Prime.
Best Documentaries to Watch on Netflix
- My Octopus Teacher – The Friendship That Defied the Ocean
Imagine diving in the chilly seas off South Africa and forming an unexpected friendship with a wild octopus. Sounds like a storybook, right? However, this joyful story is definitely genuine. My Octopus Teacher is more than just a wildlife documentary. It’s a truly moving journey between director Craig Foster and an octopus who teaches him valuable lessons about life, fragility, and connectivity. This wonderfully produced video is about human healing, not simply marine life. And serves as a reminder that even the most unusual species may touch our hearts in unexpected ways. If you haven’t already seen it, this is a must-see for nature enthusiasts.
- The Social Dilemma – The Dark Side of Your Phone
We’ve all been there: aimlessly browsing through our social media accounts while losing sight of time. But what if such applications weren’t simply meant to entertain you, but also to influence your behavior? The Social Dilemma investigates the alarming ramifications of technology firms controlling our ideas and decisions via algorithms. It casts a harsh light on the dystopian world of digital addiction, featuring unsettling interviews with former leaders from corporations such as Google and Facebook. This clip will make you reconsider every “like” and notification that appears on your screen. Prepare to observe social media in a way you’ve never seen before—it’sa real eye opener.
- 13th – Unveiling America’s Deepest Wound
There is history taught in schools, and then there is the truth, which is frequently concealed. Ava DuVernay’s stunning documentary 13th exposes the widespread imprisonment of African Americans, linking it to a flaw in the 13th Amendment that has historically subjugated Black communities. It’s a painful but important viewing for anybody wanting to grasp the underlying causes of racial injustice in America. This documentary is visceral, authentic, and difficult to forget, leaving you pondering about the impact of past on modern culture.
- American Factory – When East Meets West
What happens when a Chinese billionaire establishes a plant in postindustrial Ohio? American Factory provides a front-row seat to this cultural conflict, highlighting the difficulties between two very different societies attempting to coexist. As workers struggle with the new, often brutal, working circumstances, the film provides a striking image of globalization and its consequences for ordinary people. American Factory is more than simply a business narrative; it’s an exploration of the complexity of labor, capitalism, and the human spirit. Trust us, it’s as riveting as any drama out there.
Best Documentaries to Watch on Amazon Prime
- One Child Nation – The Heartbreak of a Generation
China’s one-child policy is one of the most contentious policies in modern history, yet few people realize the severe emotional and cultural wounds it left behind. One Child Nation delves into the core of the problem, presenting intimate stories about families ripped apart by the state’s stringent population control. From forced sterilizations to tragic instances of abandoned and adopted children abroad, this video serves as a chilling reminder of the cost of government control over human choice. If you want a documentary that will stick with you long after the credits roll, this is it.
- The Last Narc – The True Crime Story You Won’t Forget
A true-crime documentary that will have you on the edge of your seat—are you ready? The Last Narc delves deeply into the captivating story of Mexican drug lords’ abduction and murder of DEA agent Enrique “Kiki” Camarena, going beyond mere cartel narratives. This Amazon Prime documentary series peels apart the layers of corruption, cover-ups, and the deadly game of cat and mouse between law enforcement and the cartel with the help of insider interviews and startling disclosures. You won’t be able to stop talking at the conclusion since every episode has a fresh twist.
- All In: The Fight for Democracy – The Battle for Voting Rights
All In: The Fight for Democracy is a rallying cry more than just another political documentary, despite its initial appearance to that effect. This documentary was directed by Lisa Cortés and Liz Garbus. It explores the history of voter suppression in the United States, with a focus on individuals of color. Its message, which takes a somber look at the lengths some would go to in order to prevent others from having their voices heard. It is more pertinent than ever in the aftermath of the most recent elections. This documentary will show you how brittle democracy can be, regardless of your interest in politics.
There you have it! 7 best documentaries to watch on Netflix and Amazon Prime that will change how you see the world. These films do more than entertain; they educate, challenge, and provoke, offering a mirror to our society’s triumphs and tragedies. So, the next time you’re searching for something meaningful to watch, give one of these documentaries a try. You won’t regret it.
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