The 50 Top Documentary Movies And Series

Fictional stories have the ability to mirror reality, to reveal universal truths about living and society that expose the deepest crevices of humanity. But documentaries hold just as much power — they offer an even deeper dive into the real world, presenting stories that are both informative and engaging across a multitude of genres. From historical retellings that reflect on politics and religion to true crime exposés that reveal our darkest secrets, documentaries bring incredible everyday moments to life.

And the best documentaries perform this task on a masterful level. Whether you're a long-time fan of documentaries or just starting to explore this genre, I’ve got 50 great documentary picks — which include 30 films and 20 series — that will absolutely captivate you. From groundbreaking movies that have shaped the genre’s form to recent series that have captured the public's imagination, this selection will highlight the most compelling and significant true stories that have been released to date.

Top Documentary Movies

A documentary is defined as a non-fiction film that documents reality for the purposes of instruction, education, maintaining a historical record — or, sometimes in the best cases, pure entertainment. These movies can vary widely in subject matter and style, ranging from investigative journalism (such as ongoing coverage of John F. Kennedy’s assassination) and social issue documentaries to nature films and biographical stories. This list will cover several different subjects that aim to appeal to a variety of interests: history, nature, biography, music, sports, etc. If you’re interested in something, it’s likely somebody has made a documentary about it.

The highest-grossing documentary film of all time is This Is It, a concert film that offered fans one last chance to watch Michael Jackson perform live. The film was released in the wake of his death in 2009. Domestically, the film earned $72 million, and worldwide it grossed $267.9 million. The highest grossing domestic documentary, however, is Fahrenheit 9/11, Michael Moore’s political examination on how the George Bush administration handled the tragic attacks on September 11, 2001. In total, that documentary grossed $119.1 million domestically and $222.4 million worldwide.

Among the top directors featured on this list are names like Michael Moore, known for his socially conscious and often controversial, politically focused works; Errol Morris, celebrated for his in-depth explorations of complex subjects; and Steve James, who arguably made the greatest sports documentary of all time. These filmmakers have significantly contributed to the documentary genre, creating films that not only entertain but provoke thought and discussion.

30. For Sama (2019)

Waad al-Kateab's For Sama offers a tragic perspective from within the siege of Aleppo, framing the Syrian civil war's devastation through the lens of a mother. This powerful documentary is both a personal diary and a historical record, directed by al-Kateab herself alongside Edward Watts. It's a love letter to her daughter, Sama, depicting the resilience and spirit of those caught in the conflict. The film was critically acclaimed upon its 2019 release for its raw, unfiltered portrayal of war and its impact on families, making it an essential piece of activism.

Here is where you can stream For Sama.

29. Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father (2008)

Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father is a moving documentary that transcends its initial premise, evolving from a heartfelt tribute into a gripping narrative of love, loss and the quest for justice. Director Kurt Kuenne began the project as a way to honor his murdered friend, Andrew Bagby, intending to present it to Bagby's son, Zachary. However, the film takes a devastating turn as it documents the subsequent legal battle and tragedy involving Zachary and his mother. Kuenne's deeply personal approach turned Dear Zachary into a riveting tale that pulls at your heartstrings.

Here is where you can stream Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father.

28. Streetwise (1984)

Directed by Martin Bell and inspired by the photojournalism of Mary Ellen Mark, the 1984 documentary Streetwise paints an unforgettable portrait of the lives of street kids in Seattle. The film follows the lives of several teenagers who navigate poverty and survival with a the kind of resilience that can move even the toughest of movie watchers. Bell’s unobtrusive camera work allows the stories of these young individuals to unfold with dignity and brutal honesty, making Streetwise a seminal work in the documentary genre.

Here is where you can stream Streetwise.

27. The Act of Killing (2012)

Joshua Oppenheimer’s The Act of Killing is a documentary that defies convention, confronting the perpetrators of the Indonesian mass killings of 1965-66 to reenact their crimes. This surreal approach not only exposes the chilling banality of evil but also the complex interplay of memory, guilt and denial. Oppenheimer’s film was lauded for its innovative methodology and its ability to delve into the psychology of genocide with an unsettling intimacy. The Act of Killing challenges its audience to reconsider the boundaries of documentary filmmaking and the processes by which societies remember and justify their past atrocities.

Here is where you can stream The Act of Killing.

26. Close to Vermeer (2023)

Close to Vermeer ventures into the world of art like never before, offering audiences a rare glimpse into the techniques and secrets behind painter Johannes Vermeer's timeless masterpieces. Blending expert analysis with stunning visuals to bring the 17th-century Dutch painter's work to life, this documentary’s exploration of Vermeer's use of light and color not only deepens appreciation for his art but also posits theories about whether some of these paintings even belong to Vermeer or not. The film stands out for its innovative approach to art history, making the genius of Vermeer accessible and relevant to even those who have never heard of him.

Here is where you can stream Close to Vermeer.

25. Wham! (2023)

The documentary Wham! bursts onto the scene with a vibrant exploration of the iconic pop duo George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley, charting their meteoric rise to fame in the 1980s. Directed with a keen eye for detail and a deep respect for its subjects, this film serves as an insightful look into the cultural impact of Wham!'s catchy tunes and flashy videos. Through interviews, archival footage and personal stories, Wham! captures the essence of an era while paying tribute to George Michael's legacy as a musician and cultural icon.

Here is where you can stream Wham!.

24. Jiro Dreams of Sushi (2011)

In Jiro Dreams of Sushi, the pursuit of perfection is embodied by Jiro Ono, an octogenarian sushi master whose tiny restaurant in Tokyo earned three Michelin stars. Directed by David Gelb, this documentary is a feast for the senses, capturing the artistry and dedication behind each piece of sushi prepared by Jiro and his tight-knit team. Gelb’s intimate portrayal of Jiro, the ultimate entrepreneur in the field of culinary art, and his relationship with his sons, who are following in his footsteps, offers a moving narrative that goes beyond sushi, reflecting on the ever-elusive pursuit of perfection.

Here is where you can stream Jiro Dreams of Sushi.

23. Black Is…Black Ain’t (1994)

Marlon Riggs' Black Is…Black Ain’t is a profound exploration of African American identity, challenging and deconstructing stereotypes and norms that have persisted for decades. This documentary weaves together personal narratives, historical footage and cultural critiques to examine the complexity and diversity of Black identity in America. Riggs, who directed the film while battling AIDS, imbues the work with urgency and personal reflection, making it a powerful testament to the multifaceted nature of race and identity.

Here is where you can stream Black Is…Black Ain’t.

22. 5 Broken Cameras (2011)

5 Broken Cameras, co-directed by Emad Burnat and Guy Davidi, is a first-hand account of the protests in Bil’in, a West Bank village affected by the Israeli separation barrier. Through the lens of five different cameras, all of which were eventually destroyed in the conflict, Burnat documents the non-violent resistance and eventual tragedy that befalls his village. The documentary, which is also a top war movie, is deeply personal and universally relevant, offering an unfiltered look at the human cost of geopolitical strife. Its critical acclaim comes from its raw honesty and the poignant narrative of resilience.

Here is where you can stream 5 Broken Cameras.

21. Shoah (1985)

Claude Lanzmann's Shoah is an epic documentary, dedicating over nine hours to the examination of the Holocaust without using a single frame of archival footage. Instead, Lanzmann relies on interviews with survivors, witnesses and perpetrators, along with visits to key Holocaust sites, to weave a narrative of unparalleled depth. Shoah challenges viewers with its demanding length and its relentless pursuit of memory and testimony, making it one of the most significant contributions to the documentation of the Holocaust and a landmark in the art of documentary filmmaking.

Here is where you can stream Shoah.

20. The Mask You Live In (2015)

Jennifer Siebel Newsom’s The Mask You Live In scrutinizes the American masculinity crisis, revealing the societal pressures boys face to conform to a narrow definition of what it means to “be a man.” This documentary combines personal stories and cultural analysis to challenge the stereotypes and expectations that shape the experiences of men and boys. By addressing issues like emotional suppression, violence and the devaluation of femininity, The Mask You Live In offers a critical examination of the impact of gender norms on individual and social well-being.

Here is where you can stream The Mask You Live In.

19. Leviathan (2012)

The 2012 documentary Leviathan, directed by Lucien Castaing-Taylor and Véréna Paravel, takes viewers on an immersive journey into the world of commercial fishing off the coast of New England. Through some of the most inventive camerawork you’ll find in documentary filmmaking, the film captures the chaotic beauty of the sea and the brutal reality of fish harvesting. Absent of dialogue and conventional narrative, Leviathan challenges the viewer’s perspective, offering an uncompromising look at the intersection of nature and industry.

Here is where you can stream Leviathan.

18. Paris is Burning (1990)

Jennie Livingston’s Paris is Burning dives into the vibrant world of ballroom culture in 1980s New York City, offering an insightful look into the lives of its participants, many of whom belong to the African-American and Latinx LGBTQ+ communities. This documentary is celebrated for its groundbreaking portrayal of race, class, gender and sexuality, capturing the joy and pain of a community forging its identity against a backdrop of societal rejection. Paris is Burning has left an indelible mark on documentary filmmaking and popular culture, inspiring dialogue and action on LGBTQ+ rights and visibility.

Here is where you can stream Paris is Burning.

17. The Interrupters (2011)

The Interrupters tells the story of three "violence interrupters" who, with the backing of the Chicago project Operation CeaseFire, aim to protect their communities from the violence they once employed. Directed by Steve James, this documentary delves into the complex reality of urban violence, exploring the personal stories of those striving to bring peace to their neighborhoods. Its candid portrayal of the challenges and successes in interrupting the cycle of violence offers a hopeful perspective on the power of grassroots movements.

Here is where you can stream The Interrupters.

16. Blackfish (2013)

Blackfish sparked a worldwide conversation about the ethics of captive orcas, focusing on Tilikum, an orca held by SeaWorld, and the controversies surrounding the death of trainer Dawn Brancheau. Directed by Gabriela Cowperthwaite, the documentary combines shocking footage and interviews in order to critique the marine park industry. Its impact was profound, leading to significant changes in public attitudes regarding animal captivity and SeaWorld’s practices.

Here is where you can stream Blackfish.

15. Flee (2020)

Flee unfolds the true story of Amin Nawabi (a pseudonym), who recounts his journey from Afghanistan to Denmark as a child refugee. This documentary, directed by Jonas Poher Rasmussen, uses a unique blend of animation and personal interviews to protect Nawabi’s identity while delivering a powerful narrative about the refugee experience. Flee has been celebrated for its innovative storytelling technique, which adds several layers of depth and universality to Nawabi’s personal tale, making the challenges and choices faced by refugees around the world more accessible and empathetic to audiences.

Here is where you can stream Flee.

14. Woodstock (1970)

The 1970 documentary Woodstock captures the essence of the 1969 music festival that became a symbol of the counterculture movement of the 1960s. Directed by Michael Wadleigh, this captivating document is not just a concert film but a cultural artifact, offering unparalleled insights into a pivotal moment in American history. With performances by some of the era’s most iconic musicians, Woodstock reflects the hopes, dreams and spirit of an entire generation and the artists who influenced it.

Here is where you can stream Woodstock.

13. Nostalgia for the Light (2010)

Patricio Guzmán’s Nostalgia for the Light is a poetic documentary that draws parallels between the astronomers peering into the cosmos from the Atacama Desert in Chile and the women searching the desert floor for the remains of loved ones who disappeared during Pinochet’s dictatorship. This film, which owns some of the most breathtaking visuals ever captured by political documentary filmmaking, is a meditation on memory, history and the universe as we know it, exploring how the quest for truth and the pursuit of scientific discovery intersect with the darker chapters of human history.

Here is where you can stream Nostalgia for the Light.

12. Nanook of the North (1922)

Considered one of the earliest full-length documentaries, Robert J. Flaherty’s Nanook of the North is a pioneering work in the genre, offering a portrayal of the Inuit people in the Canadian Arctic. Despite controversies over staged sequences and its portrayal of Inuit life, the film remains an important historical document and a significant artistic achievement. Flaherty’s empathetic lens invites viewers to witness the daily challenges and triumphs of Nanook and his family, blending storytelling with ethnographic observation. Its influence on documentary filmmaking and the visual representation of indigenous cultures is undeniable.

Here is where you can stream Nanook of the North.

11. F for Fake (1973)

Orson Welles’ F for Fake is a flooring exploration of the nature of authenticity and deceit, blending documentary and fiction in a way that anticipates a very post-modern approach to documentary life and the human condition. Through the lens of art forgery and hoaxes, Welles engages with themes of authorship and identity, exposing a thin line between truth and fabrication that is constantly toed and blurred. This film stands out not only for its subject matter but also for its playful, innovative approach to narrative and structure, challenging viewers to question what they see and believe.

Here is where you can stream F for Fake.

10. Bowling for Columbine (2002)

Michael Moore’s Bowling for Columbine is a provocative examination of gun culture in the United States, sparked by the tragic Columbine High School massacre. Moore’s confrontational style and his exploration of the complex web of factors contributing to American gun violence made the film a critical and commercial success. It's credited with reigniting the debate on gun control and remains a touchstone in discussions about violence in American society.

Here is where you can stream Bowling for Columbine.

9. The Emperor’s Naked Army Marches On (1987)

Kazuo Hara’s The Emperor’s Naked Army Marches On is a confrontational documentary that follows Kenzo Okuzaki, a Japanese veteran determined to expose the truth behind unexplained deaths in his unit during World War II. Hara’s unflinching camera captures Okuzaki’s pursuit of justice and the shocked reactions of his former comrades, creating a tense, often uncomfortable, but altogether important viewing experience. The film is a powerful commentary on the legacy of war, the silence surrounding Japan’s wartime atrocities and the personal cost of obsession.

Here is where you can stream The Emperor’s Naked Army Marches On.

8. The Thin Blue Line (1988)

Errol Morris’ The Thin Blue Line is a landmark in documentary filmmaking, employing reenactments and an influential narrative style to investigate the murder of a Dallas police officer and the wrongful conviction of Randall Dale Adams. Morris’ meticulous attention to detail and his ability to unravel a complex web of evidence and testimony not only brought new facts to light but also contributed to Adams’ eventual release from prison. The film is acclaimed for its innovative approach to the true-crime genre, blending investigative journalism with inventive camera techniques to challenge perceptions of truth and justice.

Here is where you can stream The Thin Blue Line.

7. Jackass: The Movie (2002)

Jackass: The Movie extends the MTV series’ brand of shock humor and daring stunts to the big screen, documenting the wild antics of Johnny Knoxville and his crew. While it may seem an outlier in a list of documentaries, the film captures a certain cultural zeitgeist of the early 2000s, pushing the boundaries of taste and safety. Directed by Jeff Tremaine, Jackass: The Movie wonderfully captures the camaraderie between a bunch of kids whose intentions are no bigger than providing entertainment at the expense of their own bodies. The gluttonous arrogance it requires to defy what’s expected of cinematic storytelling and instead opt for an amalgamation of bits that seemingly share no narrative coherence yet mesh together in the most thematically cohesive manner represents everything I want from movies.

Here is where you can stream Jackass: The Movie.

6. Man with a Movie Camera (1929)

Dziga Vertov’s Man with a Movie Camera is a revolutionary silent documentary that celebrates urban life in the Soviet Union through a dazzling array of cinematic techniques. Vertov’s experimental approach to film, including fast cutting, split screens and diverse camera angles, was designed to create a cinematic truth beyond the capabilities of traditional narrative cinema. To this day, Man with a Movie Camera feels more boundary-pushing than 90% of traditional storytelling. The film remains a vital work for its innovative style and its vision of the city as a bustling, vibrant organism, influencing generations of adventurous filmmakers in their approach to visual storytelling.

Here is where you can stream Man with a Movie Camera.

5. Sans Soleil (1983)

Chris Marker’s Sans Soleil is an elusive, meditative documentary that traverses the globe, exploring memory and the passage of time. Blending personal narration with footage from regions like Japan, Guinea-Bissau and Iceland, Marker crafts a mosaic of human experience that defies simple categorization. This film stands out for its poetic approach to documentary, inviting viewers to engage with the world in a deeply reflective manner. Sans Soleil is celebrated for its philosophical depth, its innovative structure and its ability to weave disparate moments into a coherent, mesmerizing whole.

Here is where you can stream Sans Soleil.

4. News From Home (1977)

Chantal Akerman’s News From Home offers a poignant intersection of the personal and the universal, combining long takes of 1970s New York City with readings of letters from her mother in Belgium. The documentary’s contemplative pace and the juxtaposition of intimate family connections against the backdrop of an indifferent metropolis create for a profound meditation on distance, belonging and the slow and inevitable passage of time. Akerman’s minimalist approach foregrounds the emotional resonance of everyday scenes, making News From Home a seminal work in the exploration of identity and space.

Here is where you can stream News From Home.

3. This Is Not a Film (2011)

Jafar Panahi’s This Is Not a Film is a defiant act of creativity under constraint, shot while the Iranian director was under house arrest and facing a 20-year ban on filmmaking. Using digital cameras and an iPhone, Panahi blurs the lines between documentary and fiction — as he has done throughout his legendary career — offering a window into his daily life and the creative process in the face of censorship. The film is a testament to the power of artistic expression and resistance, showcasing Panahi’s undying commitment to using his art as a political platform and the universal desire for freedom of speech.

Here is where you can stream This Is Not a Film.

2. Stop Making Sense (1984)

Jonathan Demme’s Stop Making Sense captures the energetic essence of Talking Heads at the peak of their powers during a live concert. Renowned for its innovative use of cinematography and sound, this film, which has earned praise as one of the best recordings of a live performance ever, progresses from a solo performance by David Byrne to a full-blown art-funk spectacle. Stop Making Sense — which just received a well deserved 4K update from A24 — is celebrated not just as a concert film but as a transcendent, immersive experience, showcasing the band’s creativity and the unifying power of music.

Here is where you can stream Stop Making Sense.

1. Hoop Dreams (1994)

Steve James’s Hoop Dreams follows the aspirations of two African American high school students, William Gates and Arthur Agee, as they navigate the high stakes world of amateur basketball in Chicago. Over the course of five years, the documentary explores themes of race, education and economic disparity, offering a complex portrait of American life. Its depth of character and narrative ambition have made Hoop Dreams a landmark in documentary filmmaking, celebrated for its empathetic portrayal and insightful commentary on the dreams and challenges faced by young athletes.

Here is where you can stream Hoop Dreams.

Top Documentary Series

A documentary series extends the traditional documentary format into a multi-part exploration, diving deeper into subjects through episodic storytelling, allowing for a more comprehensive study. The list I’ve compiled showcases this diversity, featuring landmark series — a few of which exist for free on YouTube — that mesmerize with their stunning visuals of natural wonders, chronicle the ups and downs of sports’ most legendary players and teams, and offer profound examinations of controversial conflicts that defined civilization as we know it today.

The directors and creators behind these series, such as Sir David Attenborough, Ken Burns and Ezra Edelman, are celebrated for their mastery in crafting engaging and often groundbreaking work. These series not only entertain but also educate, leaving a lasting impression on their audiences with compelling narratives that tell us more about history than we ever would have believed possible through the art of film

20. Voir (2021)

Voir is a visual love letter to cinema, composed of essays that delve into the artistry and impact of films through a unique lens. This series, curated by a team of film enthusiasts and critics under the guidance of David Fincher, explores the depths of cinematic storytelling and its influence on both individuals and society at large. Each episode is a standalone piece that combines passionate cinematic analysis and riveting personal reflection, making it a must-watch for cinephiles.

Here is where you can stream Voir.

19. Gilles Deleuze from A to Z (1989)

As an intellectual journey through the thoughts of philosopher Gilles Deleuze, Gilles Deleuze from A to Z navigates his complex ideas with remarkable clarity. Directed by Pierre-André Boutang, this series features Deleuze himself discussing key concepts and influences that shaped his work. It's a rare and intimate look into the mind of one of the 20th century's most influential thinkers, offering viewers an accessible entry point into his philosophical world. The series is celebrated for demystifying Deleuze's theories and presenting them in a digestible format.

Here is where you can stream Gilles Deleuze from A to Z.

18. All You Need Is Love: The Story of Popular Music (1970)

Tony Palmer's All You Need Is Love is a monumental series that charts the history and evolution of popular music. Spanning various genres and decades, it captures the cultural, social and political contexts that shaped music's development. From jazz to rock 'n' roll, the series is rich in interviews and performances, offering a comprehensive look at the soundtrack of the 20th century. Its ambitious scope and depth make it an essential chronicle of music's role in reflecting and shaping society.

Here is where you can stream All You Need Is Love: The Story of Popular Music.

17. The Battle of Chile (1975-1979)

Patricio Guzmán’s The Battle of Chile is a riveting three-part documentary series that captures the tumultuous political landscape of Chile leading up to and following the 1973 coup d'état that ousted President Salvador Allende. Shot on the ground amidst increasing social unrest and political turmoil, Guzmán’s work is both a historical document and a timeless piece of activist filmmaking. Praised for its uncompromising journalistic integrity and its vivid portrayal of a nation on the brink of change, The Battle of Chile is an important work in the canon of political documentaries.

Here is where you can stream The Battle of Chile.

16. The History of the Minnesota Vikings (2023)

Exploring the rich legacy of the Minnesota Vikings, The History of the Minnesota Vikings offers an in-depth look at one of the NFL's most storied franchises. From the team’s very strange origin to its recent competitive seasons, this series written and directed by Jon Bois delves into the team's highs and lows, iconic players and memorable games. This documentary series, which you can watch in its entirety on YouTube from the outstanding Secret Base channel, stands out for its unbelievable commitment and insight, presenting a holistic view of the team's impact on the city of Minneapolis. It’s a landmark achievement for sports documentaries.

Here is where you can stream The History of the Minnesota Vikings.

15. 9/11: One Day in America (2021)

In collaboration with the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, 9/11: One Day in America offers a profound and detailed account of September 11, 2001, through the eyes of those who lived it. This series from National Geographic directed by David Schweitzer combines never-before-seen footage and gripping firsthand accounts to chronicle the events of the day with heartbreaking clarity. Its respectful and meticulous storytelling honors the memory of the victims and the heroism of first responders, providing a poignant reminder of resilience in the face of tragedy.

Here is where you can stream 9/11: One Day in America.

14. Apocalypse: The Second World War (2009)

Apocalypse: The Second World War is a comprehensive and visceral examination of World War II, utilizing colorized footage to bring an unprecedented level of realism to the events that shaped the modern world. Narrated by Mathieu Kassovitz and featuring music composed by Kenji Kawai, this landmark series spans from the conflict’s origins to its aftermath, offering insights into strategic decisions, pivotal battles and human stories of resilience and suffering. Its use of rare archival footage makes it an indispensable resource for understanding the complexity and enormity of the war.

Here is where you can stream Apocalypse: The Second World War.

13. American Nightmare (2024)

American Nightmare delves into the chilling 2015 case of Denise Huskins' kidnapping, a crime initially dismissed by authorities and the media as a hoax. The series recounts the events surrounding Huskins' disappearance, the subsequent disbelief and mistreatment by the Vallejo, California police and the FBI, and the eventual vindication of Huskins and her boyfriend, Aaron Quinn. Directors Bernadette Higgins and Felicity Morris weave together a story that is both suspenseful and infuriating, highlighting the grave consequences of institutional bias.

Here is where you can stream American Nightmare.

12. The Valour and the Horror (1992)

The Valour and the Horror is a controversial Canadian series from Brian and Terence McKenna that scrutinizes the country's military involvement in World War II, particularly focusing on the experiences of Canadian soldiers in campaigns like the bombing of Germany and the Hong Kong defense. Its unflinching look at the horrors of war and the questioning of military decisions sparked a national debate on war ethics and history. Despite — or perhaps because of — its controversy, the series is an essential exploration of the complexities of war and the bravery of those who fight.

Here is where you can stream The Valour and the Horror.

11. This is Pop (2021)

This is Pop uncovers the untold stories of pop music, exploring its cultural impact, the evolution of the genre and the artists who have shaped its course. Through interviews with musicians, producers and industry insiders, the series delves into pivotal moments and movements in pop history, from Auto-Tune's invention to video music magic to the Boy Band phenomenon. This is Pop stands out for its insightful analysis and celebration of pop music's diversity and its power to unite across the various backgrounds of the world that became obsessed with the genre.

Here is where you can stream This is Pop.

10. The Century of Self (2002)

Adam Curtis's The Century of Self explores how psychoanalysis, initially conceived as a tool for understanding the human mind, was co-opted by corporations and politicians to control and manipulate the masses. The series weaves together a compelling narrative that traces the influence of Freudian ideas on consumer culture and democratic society. Curtis's critical eye and engaging storytelling expose the complex relationship between individual identity and the mechanisms of power, making it a thought-provoking critique of modern capitalism.

Here is where you can stream The Century of Self.

9. Captain Ahab: The Story of Dave Stieb (2022)

Captain Ahab: The Story of Dave Stieb chronicles the career of one of baseball's most talented and enigmatic pitchers. The series delves into Stieb's relentless pursuit of perfection on the mound amidst his battles with injuries, drawing parallels between this baseball player with a historically polarizing personality and the obsessive quest of Melville's Captain Ahab. Through interviews with teammates and opponents alike, as well as sports analysts, the series paints a multifaceted portrait of an athlete who was both defined and consumed by his relentless drive for success.

Here is where you can stream Captain Ahab: The Story of Dave Stieb.

8. The Vietnam War (2017)

Ken Burns and Lynn Novick's The Vietnam War is an epic, ten-part series that provides a comprehensive overview of the Vietnam War from its origins through its aftermath. Through painstakingly gathered archival footage and interviews with every type of player in this event — from soldiers to protesters to policymakers from both sides — the series offers a nuanced perspective on one of the most divisive conflicts in U.S. history. Its detailed examination of the human costs of war makes it an essential documentary for understanding the complexities of the Vietnam War and its lasting impact on American and Vietnamese societies.

Here is where you can stream The Vietnam War.

7. O.J.: Made in America (2016)

Ezra Edelman’s O.J.: Made in America examines the life of O.J. Simpson, and along with it ever-present topics in America, like race, fame and justice. Spanning five parts, the series explores Simpson’s rise to fame, fall from grace and infamous murder trial, providing a detailed backdrop of Los Angeles’ racial tensions, which framed the public and judicial response to the case. This documentary series is a masterclass in storytelling, blending sports history, celebrity culture and social commentary into a compelling narrative.

Here is where you can stream O.J.: Made in America.

6. The Beatles: Get Back (2021)

Directed by Peter Jackson, The Beatles: Get Back offers an unprecedented look at the creative process of one of the world’s most iconic bands. Utilizing restored footage originally captured for the 1970 documentary Let It Be, the series presents an intimate glimpse into The Beatles and how they worked together during their final days as a band. Jackson’s meticulous restoration work and the series’ focus on the dynamics between John, Paul, George and Ringo during the recording of their last album offer fans and newcomers alike a fresh perspective on the legendary group's endearing and enduring legacy.

Here is where you can stream The Beatles: Get Back.

5. The World at War (1973)

The World at War remains one of the most comprehensive documentary series on World War II. Narrated by Laurence Olivier, its detailed coverage of the war from multiple perspectives, combined with extensive archival footage and interviews with those who lived through it, offers an unparalleled historical account. The series is renowned for its ability to convey the scale and human cost of the conflict, making it an indispensable resource for anyone interested in understanding the Second World War.

Here is where you can stream The World at War.

4. Cosmos: A Personal Voyage (1980)

Carl Sagan’s Cosmos: A Personal Voyage is a groundbreaking series that brought the wonders of the universe to millions of viewers around the world. With its blend of scientific insights, philosophical reflections and stunning visuals, Cosmos not only educated but also inspired a sense of awe and curiosity about the universe. Sagan’s accessible approach and passionate delivery transformed complex scientific concepts into captivating narratives, making Cosmos a seminal work in science communication and an inspiration for explorers of the cosmic frontier.

Here is where you can stream Cosmos: A Personal Voyage.

3. The Last Dance (2020)

The Last Dance chronicles Michael Jordan and the 1990s Chicago Bulls' dynasty, focusing on their quest for a sixth NBA championship in the 1997-98 season. The series combines unseen footage from the season with comprehensive interviews of key figures, offering an in-depth look at the challenges and triumphs of one of basketball’s greatest teams. Its detailed portrayal of Jordan’s leadership, the dynamics of team and all its carefully constructed parts, and the pressures of sustaining success make The Last Dance a captivating study of just how difficult it is to create such undeniable greatness.

Here is where you can stream The Last Dance.

2. Baseball (1994)

Ken Burns's Baseball is an exhaustive exploration of America's pastime, tracing the sport's history from its inception through the 20th century. This nine-part series examines baseball's impact on American culture, the barriers broken by its players and the legends born on its fields. Burns's signature style, combining archival footage and stories from those involved in the evolution of the game, brings baseball’s rich narrative to life, celebrating its highs and lows and its role in shaping society.

Here is where you can stream Baseball.

1. Planet Earth II (2016)

Planet Earth II, narrated by Sir David Attenborough, sets a new benchmark for nature documentaries with its breathtaking cinematography and groundbreaking technology. This sequel to the original Planet Earth series takes viewers on a journey through diverse habitats, from islands and mountains to jungles and cities, showcasing the incredible adaptability and beauty of life on Earth. Its stunning visuals, combined with Attenborough’s insightful commentary, make Planet Earth II a mesmerizing experience that highlights the wonder of the natural world and the urgent need for its conservation.

Here is where you can stream Planet Earth II.

Bottom Line

There are countless great documentary movies and series to choose from. But this list contains the most well-regarded and influential documentaries ever put to film. Altogether, these documentaries will enrich how you see and understand the world.