Who doesn't love a good Netflix binge-watch session? But instead of the usual fare, imagine getting lost in tales so compelling they blur the line between reality and fiction. Whether uncovering systemic injustices, exploring personal dramas in war-torn landscapes, or delving into bizarre tales of deception, Netflix's documentary selection invites us on journeys that are as enlightening as they are entertaining.
So grab your popcorn (or maybe a notebook, because you’ll want to remember these lessons!), and let’s dive into the five best documentaries on Netflix, which are as riveting as any thriller and as deep as any drama.
13th (2016)
Directed by Ava DuVernay, 13th is a piercing exploration of the intersection between race, justice, and mass incarceration in the United States. Named after the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery except as punishment for a crime, this documentary argues that slavery has been perpetuated since the end of the Civil War through criminal laws designed and enforced to subjugate African Americans.
The cinematography is stark and powerful, stripping down to the essentials to help viewers focus on the heart-wrenching interviews and hard-hitting statistics. Featuring a mix of scholars, activists, and politicians, including Angela Davis and Cory Booker, the film weaves an intricate narrative of race, control, and freedom in modern America. Its critical acclaim and impact make it among the best educational documentaries available, highlighting DuVernay’s prowess in driving hard truths home.
Four Daughters (2023)
A stirring addition to the best recent documentaries category, Four Daughters tells the story of four Syrian sisters whose lives are upturned by the civil war. This documentary shines through its intimate portrayal of the sisters' daily struggles and the poignant moments of joy and sorrow. Directed by Maisa Al Hafez, the film captures the nuances of life in conflict zones with sensitivity and depth, focusing on the resilience and solidarity of the sisters.
Through breathtaking cinematography, each frame thoughtfully captures the contrast between the war-torn landscapes and the vibrant lives of these women. The narrative is a powerful reminder of the strength found in family bonds and shared hopes amid chaos, earning its place among the top 5 documentaries on Netflix.
Bad Vegan (2022)
Bad Vegan fame. Betrayal. Redemption. This sensational Netflix documentary delves into the bizarre world of celebrity restaurateur Sarma Melngailis, who her husband conned into believing that he could make her dog immortal through a series of increasingly outrageous schemes.
Directed by Chris Smith, the mind behind Fyre: The Greatest Party That Never Happened, this documentary is a rollercoaster ride of emotions and revelations. The cinematography and editing style adds a layer of glitz and eeriness to the storytelling, effectively capturing the surreal aspects of the story. Bad Vegan is a trending documentary that keeps viewers glued to their screens, pondering the complex interplay between love, deception, and ambition.
Crip Camp (2020)
Produced by Barack and Michelle Obama, Crip Camp starts at a ramshackle summer camp for disabled teenagers and transforms into a heartwarming chronicle of the disability rights movement. This documentary is imbued with authenticity and passion, directed by Nicole Newnham and Jim LeBrecht, the latter a former camper himself.
The film’s intimate footage, captured primarily during the 1970s, combined with contemporary interviews, provides a dynamic and engaging look at the personal and collective struggles for equality. Crip Camp is not only an educational documentary but also an uplifting journey, showing how a small group's determination can ignite a national movement.
Dick Johnson Is Dead (2020)
Kirsten Johnson’s Dick Johnson Is Dead is an innovative blend of documentary and staged inventive scenarios depicting various imaginative ways her father, Dick, could ultimately pass away. Each sequence is crafted with whimsy and deep affection, creating a film that is as much an exploration of mortality as it is a celebration of life.
Johnson’s work is a poignant, sometimes humorous look at aging and the inevitability of death. The use of both real-life documentation and fantastical scenes allows for a unique cinematic experience, making it one of the most unique documentaries on Netflix. This documentary encourages viewers to confront uncomfortable subjects with a smile, making it a profound piece to watch.
Conclusion
Netflix’s lineup of documentaries is as diverse as it is profound. From the systemic explorations in 13th to the intimate familial narrative of Four Daughters, each documentary offers a window into different aspects of human life and societal issues.
As you explore these best documentaries on Netflix, prepare to be moved, educated, and inspired. These stories are not just for watching—they're for experiencing, reflecting, and carrying with you long after the credits roll. So why wait? Watch these remarkable documentaries today and see the world in a new light.
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