Netflix has become the master conductor of documentaries. Covering everything from true crime, to nature, music and every wacky aspect of this wonderful thing we call life in-between, there truly is something for everyone. We’ve rounded up 19 of our favorites available to watch right now.
Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness
Of course, it’s top of the list. Viewed by more than 34 million people in the first ten days of it hitting our screens, this tale of true crime is one of the most absurdly compelling documentaries of all time. Pitched as a series about the life of big cats in America’s roadside zoos, things quickly take a turn, then another turn, then basically veer off the road in plot terms. Utterly addictive. Now stay safe all you cool cats and kittens!
Cheer
More than just a documentary about cheerleading, this is a story of guts, determination, and heart. It follows the Navarro College cheer squad as they go through the emotional highs and lows of the pressures of competing. Some serious ‘ouch’ moments on and off the mat.
Crip Camp
A series that highlights the disability movement, it follows a group of teens attending a summer camp for youngsters with special needs at a time when their needs were viewed very differently. Moving and eye-opening.
The Keepers
A dark and twisted docuseries that tells of Cathy Cesnik, a nun and Catholic teacher, who goes missing and is subsequently murdered.
Conversations with a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes
Filmmaker Joe Berlinger interviews journalist Stephen Michaud about his revealing conversations with serial killer Bundy while he was in prison. Chilling stuff.
Icarus
Director Bryan Fogel’s investigations into doping practises opens a gaping wound in the entire system, revealing a shocking scandal. Rightfully Oscar-winning.
Dirty Money
Want to know about the global corporate machine at its worst? Watch this.
Woodstock: Three Days That Defined a Generation
Re-live this iconic music festival more than 50 years after it changed the world for the better.
20 Feet From Stardom
Ever wondered about the row of singers that bring harmony and funk to the famous frontmen and women in music? This Oscar-winning film follows the careers of backup singers like Darlene Love, Merry Clayton, and others, who featured on some of the biggest tracks of our generation while remaining just 20 feet from stardom.
Evil Genius
This four-part documentary series unpicks the deadly Pennsylvania bank robbery that led to the shrouded murder of Brian Wells.
The Disappearance of Madeleine McCann
British toddler Madeleine McCann was just 3 years old when she went missing while on vacation in Portugal with her family. She was never found. This program unpacks the many theories around this strange unsolved case.
Miss Americana
A rare behind the scenes insight into the life of Grammy award-winning megastar Taylor Swift.
The Pixar Story
A fascinating insight into the talented teams that create some of our most beloved animated characters and movies.
Oceans
Exploring the vital relationship that the oceans play in the overall health of the planet. Surprisingly moving, with epic visuals and a beautiful soundtrack.
Homecoming: A Film By Beyoncé
A fly-on-the-wall documentary following the powerhouse that is Beyoncé as we watch her spill the blood, sweat, tears, and smiles throughout the creation of her 2018 Coachella performance.
Fyre: The Greatest Party that Never Happened
This documentary tracks the unraveling of the biggest failed festival scam of all time. And, we will always be left asking, “How did Billy McFarland ever let it get that far?”
Wild Wild Country
The Rajneeshpuram community was created by ‘guru’ Bhagwan Shree and his right-hand Ma Anand Sheela. While Shree died in 1990, Sheela tells the filmmakers about the phenomenon that happened deep in the Oregon desert.
Quincy
Produced by Quincy’s daughter, Rashida Jones, this documentary offers a personal insight into the life and career of the music icon.
The Black Godfather
Clarence Avant was a unique man that came from the grassroots of the segregated south to be extremely successful in the entertainment industry. The documentary’s Director Reginald Hudlin has become revered for his interview back catalog having had facetime with everyone from Bill Clinton to Bill Withers, and Barack Obama.
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