Netflix has become a treasure trove of thought-provoking and eye-opening documentaries, offering a diverse range of subjects that captivate audiences around the world. From intimate portraits of iconic figures to shocking exposés of hidden worlds, the streaming platform has something for everyone. In this article, we will delve into a selection of the best documentaries available on Netflix, exploring subjects as varied as art forgery, true crime, music legends, and high-stakes sports. Join us as we uncover the powerful stories and fascinating characters that make these films must-watch experiences.
Becoming (2020)
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Run Time: 1 hr 29 min | Director: Nadia Hallgren
Cast: Michelle Obama, Gayle King, Barack Obama, Conan O'Brien, Tracee Ellis Ross
Inspired by former First Lady Michelle Obama’s memoir from 2018, the documentary film Becoming is a captivating and inspiring journey. Directed by Nadia Hallgren, this Emmy-nominated documentary takes viewers behind the scenes of Michelle Obama's book tour for her memoir, providing a genuine and intimate experience. Beyond the glamorous world of politics, Becoming delves into the personal experiences of Michelle Obama as she interacts with communities across the country, forging genuine connections. The film also showcases special moments and interviews with the Obama family, including former President Barack Obama, as well as celebrities like Conan O'Brien, Oprah Winfrey, and Gayle King. – Yael Tygiel
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Lewis Capaldi: How I’m Feeling Now (2023)
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Run Time: 1 hr 36 min | Director: Joe Pearlman
Cast: Lewis Capaldi, Amy Allen, Nick Atkinson, Tom Barnes
In the documentary Lewis Capaldi: How I’m Feeling Now, British rock sensation Lewis Capaldi lifts the curtain on his personal and professional journey. Directed by Joe Pearlman, this film offers an exclusive and intimate look at the life of the talented singer and songwriter. From his rise to stardom after a viral performance to his emotional and creative struggles, Lewis Capaldi: How I’m Feeling Now uncovers both the joys and challenges of Capaldi's musical career. Prepare to be inspired by his determination, resilience, and raw talent. – Yael Tygiel
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The American Meme (2018)
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Run Time: 1 hr 38 min | Director: Bert Marcus
Cast: Paris Hilton, Josh Ostrovsky, Brittany Furlan, and Kirill Bichutsky
In a world dominated by social media, The American Meme provides a thought-provoking exploration of the lives of internet celebrities. Directed by Bert Marcus, this documentary pulls back the curtain on the dark side of fame and the price these influencers pay for their online success. It delves into the emotional struggles, isolation, and loss of privacy that comes with being an online sensation. Featuring prominent figures like Paris Hilton, DJ Khaled, and Dane Cook, The American Meme offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of fame, capitalism, and the digital age. – Tauri Miller
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Ghislaine Maxwell: Filthy Rich (2022)
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Run Time: 1 hr 41 min | Director: Maiken Baird, Lisa Bryant
Cast: Ghislaine Maxwell, Jeffrey Epstein
Ghislaine Maxwell: Filthy Rich uncovers the shocking truth behind the crimes of Ghislaine Maxwell, notorious for her involvement in Jeffrey Epstein's abuse scandal. Directed by Maiken Baird and Lisa Bryant, this documentary sheds light on Maxwell's extensive role in trafficking young women and her complicity in Epstein's crimes. Through interviews with Epstein's victims and archival footage, Ghislaine Maxwell: Filthy Rich explores the depths of Maxwell's involvement and exposes the monstrous nature of her actions. Prepare to be captivated by this chilling account of one of the most infamous cases in recent history. – Yael Tygiel
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This Changes Everything (2018)
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Run Time: 1 hr 37 min | Director: Tom Donahue
This Changes Everything is a powerful documentary that addresses the issue of sexism in the entertainment industry. Created in collaboration with the Geena Davis Institute on Gender and Media, this film features influential actresses and filmmakers like Jessica Chastain, Sandra Oh, Reese Witherspoon, and Shonda Rhimes. The documentary delves into the gender disparity prevalent in Hollywood and explores ways to bring about positive change. By highlighting personal experiences and sharing important insights, This Changes Everything seeks to inspire a more inclusive and equitable industry. – Taylor Gates
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Shania Twain: Not Just a Girl
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Run Time: 1 hr 28 min | Directed by: Josh Crowley
Shania Twain: Not Just a Girl is a captivating documentary that explores the life and career of one of the most influential country singers of all time. Directed by Josh Crowley, this film chronicles Shania Twain's journey to success, from overcoming obstacles in the music industry to personal tragedies. Despite facing sexism and personal hardships, Twain's determination and resilience shine through, making her story both inspiring and empowering. Get ready to be moved by the resilience and talent of this remarkable artist. – Taylor Gates
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Our Father (2022)
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Run Time: 1 hr 37 min | Directed by: Lucie Jordan
Our Father is a shocking and unsettling documentary that delves into the horrifying revelations surrounding former Indianapolis fertility doctor Donald Cline. Directed by Lucie Jordan, this film takes viewers on a journey as one woman's at-home DNA test leads to the discovery of a much larger and sinister conspiracy. Uncovering the truth behind Cline's actions and the profound impact they had on his patients, Our Father raises profound questions about trust, ethics, and the abuse of power. Prepare to be captivated by this chilling true story. - Taylor Gates
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The Sparks Brothers (2021)
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Run Time: 2 hr 15 min | Directed by: Edgar Wright
Delve into the extraordinary journey of Ron and Russell Mael, the pop-rock duo known as Sparks, in the captivating documentary The Sparks Brothers. Directed by Edgar Wright, this film takes music lovers on a deep dive into the band's five-decade-long career. Through interviews, concert footage, and a laser-focused exploration of their discography, The Sparks Brothers reveals the brilliance and influence of this beloved but often overlooked band. By the end of this immersive documentary, you'll be a devoted fan, just like Wright. Prepare to be captivated by the infectious energy and creativity of Sparks. - Matt Goldberg
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Sad Hill Unearthed (2017)
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Run Time: 1 hr 26 min | Directed by: Guillermo de Oliveira
Sad Hill Unearthed is a fascinating documentary that delves into the efforts of devoted fans to restore the iconic Sad Hill Cemetery, made famous by Sergio Leone's classic western film, The Good, the Bad and the Ugly. Directed by Guillermo de Oliveira, this film celebrates the passion and dedication of film enthusiasts as they recreate and preserve this historic cinematic location. Through their labor of love, these fans create a lasting tribute to the power of art and its impact on our lives. Prepare to be inspired by the indomitable spirit of fandom. - Matt Goldberg
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Rolling Thunder Revue (2019)
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Run Time: 2 hr 22 min | Directed by: Martin Scorsese
Embark on a mind-bending journey through the blurry line between reality and fiction in Rolling Thunder Revue, a documentary film by acclaimed director Martin Scorsese. This film chronicles Bob Dylan's iconic 1975 concert tour, in which fact and fiction intertwine to create an enigmatic and mesmerizing experience. Featuring captivating concert footage and appearances by music legends like Joni Mitchell and Joan Baez, Rolling Thunder Revue captures the essence of this groundbreaking era in music history. Prepare to be captivated by this exhilarating and thought-provoking exploration of Bob Dylan's artistry and the world he inhabited. - Ross Bonaime
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Made You Look: A True Story About Fake Art (2020)
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Run Time: 1 hr 29 min | Directed by: Barry Avrich
Made You Look: A True Story About Fake Art takes viewers into the mesmerizing world of art forgery and deception. Directed by Barry Avrich, this documentary unravels the largest art fraud scandal in history, centered around the renowned Knoedler & Company gallery. Explore the intriguing question of complicity as the film probes the knowledge and involvement of those implicated in the scandal. Delve into a captivating web of deceit, raising profound questions about trust, authenticity, and the intersection of power and art. Prepare to be captivated by this compelling exploration of the art world's dark underbelly. - Matt Goldberg
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Bob Ross: Happy Accidents, Betrayal & Greed (2021)
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Run Time: 1 hr 36 min | Director: Jonah Hill
Cast: Jonah Hill, Phil Stutz
Bob Ross: Happy Accidents, Betrayal & Greed is a deeply personal and introspective documentary directed by Jonah Hill. In this film, Hill, known for his roles in films like 21 Jump Street, opens up about his own mental health struggles and the transformative power of therapy. Joined by his own therapist, Dr. Phil Stutz, Hill shares candid insights into his journey, offering a vulnerable and sincere exploration of mental health. This unique and touching film aims to destigmatize therapy and provide viewers with valuable tools and perspectives to navigate their own mental well-being. Prepare to be moved by this profound and uplifting documentary. – Yael Tygiel
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Bill Russell: Legend
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Watch onWhat else is there to say about Bill Russell, who won multiple championships with the Boston Celtics? A lot, actually. In the documentary Bill Russell: Legend, the renowned filmmaker Sam Pollard delves into the life and legacy of one of basketball's greatest legends.
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Stutz
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Watch onIn Stutz, the acclaimed actor Jonah Hill profiles his own therapist, Phil Stutz. Whether you're currently in therapy or not, this documentary offers a fascinating exploration of unconventional methods of psychotherapy. It may even inspire you to embark on your own introspective journey.
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Formula 1: Drive to Survive
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Watch onFormula 1 enthusiasts, rejoice! The thrilling series Formula 1: Drive to Survive provides an exclusive and exhilarating look into the world of championship racing. With a focus on renowned drivers like Lewis Hamilton and Lando Norris, this series captures the honesty, intensity, and raw emotion of the sport like never before. Prepare to be captivated by the drama and high-stakes competition of Formula 1.
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Trust No One: The Quest for the Cryptocurrency King
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Trust No One: The Quest for the Cryptocurrency King is an official trailer of a Netflix series that delves into the world of scams on the internet. It revolves around the mysterious death of a Canadian crypto founder, who leaves behind $215 million belonging to his customers. As the story unfolds, conspiracy theorists and internet sleuths begin to speculate that he might have faked his own death and ran away with the money.
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Downfall: The Boeing Scandal
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Downfall: The Boeing Scandal is an official trailer of a Netflix documentary that recounts the shocking events of 2019 when two Boeing 737 MAX planes crashed as a result of component failures, claiming the lives of approximately 346 people. The documentary sheds light on the role of faulty autopilot software and corporate corruption, which tarnished Boeing's reputation but didn't lead to its downfall.
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BLACKPINK: Rising to Stardom
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BLACKPINK: Rising to Stardom is an official trailer of a Netflix documentary that offers an intimate look into the lives of Rosé, Jennie, Jisoo, and Lisa, the four stars of the global female K-pop sensation, BLACKPINK. The documentary reveals the immense success and superstardom of the group, while also shedding light on the rigorous and restrictive training they undergo during their formative years.
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Dancing with the Birds: Nature's Fascinating Spectacle
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Dancing with the Birds: Nature's Fascinating Spectacle, produced by the creators of Our Planet, takes you deep into exotic forests around the world where Birds of Paradise showcase their captivating performances. These beautiful creatures dance, shake their feathers, and collect breathtaking rocks to attract mates. Witness some of nature's most mesmerizing and bizarrely captivating creatures up close in this remarkable documentary.
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Return to Space: Exploring the Unknown
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Return to Space is an official trailer of a Netflix documentary that focuses on SpaceX's mission to conquer outer space. Led by renowned entrepreneur Elon Musk, the team of astronauts and rocket scientists at SpaceX embark on a quest to make space exploration a reality. Witness the awe-inspiring journey of SpaceX as they look towards the stars and push the boundaries of human spaceflight.
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14 Peaks: Conquering the Impossible
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14 Peaks: Conquering the Impossible is an official trailer of a Netflix documentary that showcases the extraordinary feat of Nims Purja. In just six months and six days, he successfully climbed the world's 14 highest mountains, all above 8,000 meters. Gain insight into his incredible journey through this inspiring documentary, and don't forget to read our interview with Purja here.
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The Tinder Swindler: A Tale of Deception
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The Tinder Swindler is an official trailer of a Netflix documentary that explores the absurd and true crime story of Simon Leviev. Leviev allegedly posed as a billionaire diamond heir on Tinder and manipulated women into giving him money. Surprisingly, he remains at large, leaving the audience wondering about his whereabouts. Read more about him here.
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Pelé: The Legend Unveiled
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Pelé: The Legend Unveiled is an official trailer of a Netflix documentary that provides an in-depth exploration of the life of Pelé, arguably the greatest footballer of all time. Celebrate the electrifying Brazilian and gain insights into the triumphs and the mistakes he made throughout his career in this definitive portrait.
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Cocaine Cowboys: The Rise and Fall of the Miami Kings
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Cocaine Cowboys: The Rise and Fall of the Miami Kings is an official trailer of a Netflix docuseries that delves into the notorious cocaine smuggling empire controlled by Willie Falcon and Sal Magluta. These two individuals dominated the East Coast drug trade during the 1980s, amassing billions of dollars. With interviews from their close friends and co-conspirators, this gripping docuseries unveils the operation from its inception to the trials, convictions, murders, bribes, and escapes that marked this infamous case.
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Schumacher: The True Champion
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Schumacher: The True Champion is an official trailer of a Netflix documentary that takes an inside look at the life of seven-time Formula 1 champion, Michael Schumacher. Explore his early years, his rise to prominence, and his current rehabilitation following a skiing accident in 2013.
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Amy Tan: Unintended Memoir
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Amy Tan: Unintended Memoir is an official trailer of an American Masters documentary presented by PBS. It revolves around the life and work of Amy Tan, an acclaimed author who achieved overnight success with her novel The Joy Luck Club. This fantastic documentary delves into the tensions between Chinese mothers and their Americanized daughters, exploring Tan's literary accomplishments. Released during AAPI Heritage Month, it celebrates her contributions to literature and culture.
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Netflix offers a plethora of captivating documentaries that span various genres and subjects. From the inspiring stories of athletes like Bill Russell and Pelé, to intimate portraits of music legends like Shania Twain and Lewis Capaldi, and even thought-provoking investigations into scandals like Ghislaine Maxwell: Filthy Rich and Bob Ross: Happy Accidents, Betrayal & Greed, there truly is something for everyone. Whether you're seeking a thrilling true crime tale or a heartwarming exploration of human resilience, Netflix's collection of documentaries is guaranteed to both educate and entertain. So grab your popcorn, sit back, and let these extraordinary stories unfold right before your eyes. You won't want to miss a moment.
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