Explore Real Stories with the 10 Best Netflix Documentaries

In an age where storytelling knows no bounds, Netflix documentaries have emerged as a powerful medium, offering viewers a chance to witness real stories that are as captivating as any scripted drama. These documentaries not only entertain but also educate, providing a glimpse into worlds and lives we might never otherwise encounter. In this blog, we'll explore the top 10 Netflix documentaries that delve deep into the human experience, shedding light on compelling narratives that resonate with our own lives.

 

1. "13th" (2016)

 

Directed by Ava DuVernay, "13th" explores the 13th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which abolished slavery, except as a punishment for crime. The documentary examines the deep-rooted racism in America's criminal justice system, highlighting the disproportionate incarceration of African Americans. It delves into the evolution of the prison-industrial complex and its impact on marginalized communities.

 

 

Star Cast: Not applicable (documentary)

Release Year: 2016

Languages Available: English

Run-time: 1 hour 40 minutes

IMDB Rating: 8.2/10

 

2. "American Factory" (2019)

 

Directors Steven Bognar and Julia Reichert present the story of a Chinese billionaire who opens a factory in an abandoned General Motors plant in Ohio, employing American workers. Cultural clashes and differing work ethics ensue, offering a nuanced view of globalization, labor rights, and economic challenges faced by the working class in the modern world.

 

 

Star Cast: Not applicable (documentary)

Release Year: 2019

Languages Available: English, Mandarin, Spanish, French, German

Run-time: 1 hour 50 minutes

IMDB Rating: 7.5/10

 

3. "Crip Camp" (2020)

 

This empowering documentary, directed by Nicole Newnham and James LeBrecht, traces the origins of the disability rights movement in the United States. It starts with a summer camp in the 1970s, where teenagers with disabilities found a sense of belonging. The film showcases their journey and activism, leading to significant changes in legislation and societal perceptions of disability.

 

 

Star Cast: Not applicable (documentary)

Release Year: 2020

Languages Available: English

Run-time: 1 hour 48 minutes

IMDB Rating: 7.7/10

 

4. "Dick Johnson Is Dead" (2020)

 

Filmmaker Kirsten Johnson creates a heartwarming and inventive documentary exploring her father's inevitable aging and mortality. Through staged death scenes and real moments, the film humorously addresses the difficult topic of death, providing a unique perspective on the human experience, grief, and the enduring bond between parent and child.

 

 

Star Cast: Dick Johnson, Kirsten Johnson

Release Year: 2020

Languages Available: English

Run-time: 1 hour 29 minutes

IMDB Rating: 7.6/10

 

5. "Disclosure" (2020)

 

Directed by Sam Feder, "Disclosure" offers a comprehensive exploration of transgender representation in media. Through interviews with prominent transgender actors and filmmakers, the documentary sheds light on the impact of media portrayals on transgender individuals and the broader society. It examines the history of transgender representation and advocates for more authentic and positive portrayals in the future.

 

 

Star Cast: Not applicable (documentary)

Release Year: 2020

Languages Available: English

Run-time: 1 hour 47 minutes

IMDB Rating: 8.0/10

 

6. "Homecoming: A Film by Beyoncé" (2019)

 

This concert film, directed by Beyoncé herself, captures her iconic 2018 Coachella performance. It not only showcases the spectacular musical performance but also offers a glimpse into the creative process, dedication, and cultural significance of the show. The documentary explores themes of black culture, feminism, and the power of artistic expression.

 

 

Star Cast: Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Solange Knowles

Release Year: 2019

Languages Available: English

Run-time: 2 hours 17 minutes

IMDB Rating: 7.4/10

 

7. "Jim & Andy: The Great Beyond" (2017)

 

This documentary, directed by Chris Smith, provides a behind-the-scenes look at Jim Carrey's transformation into Andy Kaufman for the film "Man on the Moon." Through archival footage and interviews, the film explores Carrey's immersive method acting and the blurred lines between his own identity and that of the characters he portrays. It delves into the challenges of identity and artistic expression in the world of filmmaking.

 

 

Star Cast: Jim Carrey, Danny DeVito, Milos Forman

Release Year: 2017

Languages Available: English

Run-time: 1 hour 34 minutes

IMDB Rating: 7.7/10

 

8. "Rolling Thunder Revue" (2019)

 

Directed by Martin Scorsese, this documentary chronicles Bob Dylan's legendary 1975 Rolling Thunder Revue tour. Blending real footage with fictional elements, the film captures the essence of the counterculture movement of the 1970s. It explores the intersection of music, politics, and artistic expression during a tumultuous period in American history.

 

 

Star Cast: Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, Allen Ginsberg

Release Year: 2019

Languages Available: English

Run-time: 2 hours 22 minutes

IMDB Rating: 7.6/10

 

9. "Shirkers" (2018)

 

Directed by Sandi Tan, "Shirkers" unravels the mystery behind a lost film of the same name, shot in Singapore in the early 1990s. The documentary follows the filmmaker's quest to uncover the truth about the film's enigmatic director and the reasons behind its disappearance. It explores creativity, friendship, and the impact of lost opportunities on artistic endeavors.

 

 

Star Cast: Not applicable (documentary)

Release Year: 2018

Languages Available: English

Run-time: 1 hour 37 minutes

IMDB Rating: 7.5/10

 

10. "What Happened, Miss Simone?" (2015)

 

Directed by Liz Garbus, this documentary delves into the life and career of legendary singer and activist Nina Simone. Through archival footage and interviews, the film explores Simone's immense talent, her struggles with mental health, and her significant contributions to the civil rights movement. It offers a deep dive into the complexities of fame, identity, and social change.

 

 

Star Cast: Nina Simone, Lisa Simone Kelly, Andrew Stroud

Release Year: 2015

Languages Available: English

Run-time: 1 hour 41 minutes

IMDB Rating: 7.6/10

 

These documentaries, each unique in its storytelling and perspective, offer viewers a profound and thought-provoking cinematic experience, making them essential additions to any must-watch list.

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