Sometimes, there's nothing better than a well-made documentary to spark curiosity and expand your knowledge. Whether you're into history, science, or culture, the right film can open your eyes to new ideas and perspectives, leaving you feeling a bit smarter by the time the credits roll.
Documentaries have a unique way of making complex topics accessible and engaging, often revealing the hidden stories behind the headlines or diving deep into subjects you never knew you cared about. They offer a unique window into the complexities of our world, from the depths of the ocean to the vastness of space.
Here are 10 must-see documentaries that will broaden your horizons, spark thought-provoking discussions, and leave you feeling inspired.
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Exploring Thresholds: The Science of Our Planet is a compelling documentary that sounds the alarm on the need to safeguard our planet's ecosystems. Sir David Attenborough and scientist Johan Rockström lead us on a journey showing how our actions impact Earth's balance. The film identifies nine key thresholds essential for the planet's health. With fresh research and global imagery, Exploring Thresholds pushes us to think differently about how we live with nature and encourages actions for a sustainable tomorrow.
Where to Watch: Netflix
Food, Inc. digs deep into the food business, uncovering the less appealing truths about where our food comes from. Robert Kenner's direction exposes the grim realities of industrial farming and how large corporations dictate what ends up on our plates. Through discussions with experts like Michael Pollan and Eric Schlosser, the film calls for a change toward a more responsible and sustainable food production system.
Where to Watch: Prime Video
The documentary Steve Jobs: The Man in the Machine explores the complex life of the tech visionary Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple, whose innovative products have transformed the world we live in. In this engaging film, director Alex Gibney paints a vivid picture of the impactful entrepreneur, highlighting his career achievements alongside his personal challenges. Interviews with past colleagues, friends, and foes provide an insightful look at this iconic figure, making him more relatable.
Where to Watch: Prime Video
(Dis)Honesty: The Truth About Lies dives into why people lie, from small fibs to big scams. Directed by Yael Melamede, this thought-provoking documentary stars behavioral economist Dan Ariely, who explains experiments that reveal eye-opening aspects of dishonesty. The film also includes real stories from those affected by lies, shedding light on the reasons behind our tendency to mislead others.
Where to Watch: Prime Video and Apple TV
Blackfish provides a heartfelt look at the issue of orca captivity in places like SeaWorld, centering on Tilikum, a killer whale known for his aggressive behavior, and involvement in multiple fatalities. Director Gabriela Cowperthwaite gathers strong evidence against keeping these smart animals in tanks, featuring interviews with ex-trainers, marine experts, and whale hunters, along with shocking footage of incidents impacting both humans and captive orcas. Ultimately, Blackfish pays homage to Tilikum while shining a light on animal welfare concerns.
Where to Watch: Prime Video and Netflix
The True Cost is a thought-provoking documentary that delves into the dark underbelly of the global fashion industry. Directed by Andrew Morgan, the film exposes the harsh realities faced by garment workers in developing countries, where unsafe working conditions, low wages, and environmental degradation have become the norm.
Interviews with factory workers, environmentalists, and industry insiders illustrate the harsh realities behind cheap clothing. The film also chronicles the catastrophic collapse of the Rana Plaza in Bangladesh, drawing attention to the human toll of consumerism.
Where to Watch: Prime Video
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Sicko harshly critiques the profit-focused healthcare system in the U.S., which results in millions lacking proper insurance while corporations come first. Directed by Michael Moore, this powerful documentary compares U.S. healthcare with fairer systems in Canada, the UK, France, and Cuba, pointing out the important gaps in care and treatment. It’s an eye-opening film that is vital for those wanting to understand healthcare reform.
Where to Watch: Prime Video
This compelling documentary explores the dangers of social media and its impact on society. Featuring interviews with former tech executives and experts, it reveals how platforms manipulate users' behavior to maximize profit, which ultimately leads to addiction, polarization, and misinformation.
The film uses dramatic reenactments to illustrate the impact of these technologies on mental health, democracy, and society at large. It raises urgent questions about mental health, privacy, and the ethical responsibilities of technology companies. The Social Dilemma serves as a wake-up call, urging viewers to reconsider their relationship with social media and its pervasive effects.
Where to Watch: Netflix
This docu-series explores some well-known designs in today’s culture. Hosted by former Wired editor Scott Dadich, each episode focuses on a respected figure in their area, including artist Olafur Eliasson and his stunning installations, as well as Tinker Hatfield, the designer behind the famous Air Jordan 3 sneaker, and Ruth E. Carter, an Oscar-winning costume designer. These aren't typical celebrities, but their stories show how great creativity comes from dedication, taking chances, and hard work.
Where to Watch: Netflix
The Century of the Self looks into consumerism and how advertising has shaped human desires over time. Directed by Adam Curtis, this thoughtful documentary series explores how Freudian psychology helped create marketing methods that take advantage of people's insecurities and hopes to sell products. It's a must-see for anyone curious about the impact of consumer culture on our lives, covering everything from ads to political strategies.
Where to Watch: Prime Video
