PremiumBest documentaries of all time that are worth watching at least once
If you’re looking to boost your knowledge, we’ve curated a list of the best documentaries of all time that are available on different streaming platforms.
Last Updated: 11.37 PM, May 20, 2024
Documentaries are special not just because of their unique style but also because of their real-life subjects and the hard-hitting narrative that mirrors society. It reflects on the grim reality of life on different topics, ranging from science documentaries to social and personal ones. If you’re looking to boost your knowledge, we’ve curated a list of the best documentaries of all time that are available on different streaming platforms.
Top documentaries of all time
14 Peaks: Nothing Is Impossible
- IMDb rating: 7.7
- Where to watch: Netflix
This inspiring documentary delves into the thrilling journey of Nepali mountaineer Nimsdai Purja as he embarks on a formidable quest to conquer 14 peaks around the world within 7 months. His challenges and perseverance will boost your morale to never give up on your dreams, even if people categorize them as “impossible.”
Inside Job
- IMDb rating: 8.2
- Where to watch: Netflix
Based on the 2008 financial crisis, Inside Jobs narrates a hard-hitting story about people grappling with the loss of jobs and recession. Narrated by actor Matt Damon, this insightful documentary delves into the causes, effects, and ignorant mistakes during this difficult phase. The docufilm offers a different perspective and highlights the impacts of the financial crisis.
Dahmer - Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story
- IMDb rating: 7.9
- Where to watch: Netflix
This documentary is a reenactment of the heinous and shocking crimes by the cannibalistic serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer, also known as the Milwaukee Monster. Whether it's the chilling flesh-eating scenes or the investigation, Dahmer will leave you feeling nauseous with its impressive execution.
One Child Nation
- IMDb rating: 7.5
- Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
This documentary sheds light on the historic single-child policy in China. It delves into the impacts of the policy from 1979 to 2015. Directors Nanfu Wang and Jialing Zhang explore how mothers struggled and faced challenges as they became the victims of the one-child policy. It also involves several interviews with former village chiefs, state officials, ex-human traffickers, artists, midwives, journalists, researchers, and many others to impart weight to its authenticity.
Marilyn Monroe: Icon of Our Time
- IMDb rating: 7.9
- Where to watch: DocuBay
The biographical documentary witnesses the rise of Marilyn Monroe, who became an iconic role model for generations. Her blonde hair and charming beauty made her the style icon of Hollywood. The docufilm captivates her journey to stardom in the glamourous industry of entertainment.
Apple: The Trillion Dollar Betrayal
- IMDb rating: 6.5
- Where to watch: DocuBay
As the name highlights, this docufilm revolves around the tech behemoth Apple, which has secured a high brand value over time. It takes you inside the hidden motives of Apple and its CEO, Tim Cook. Unravel the mysteries with this technical documentary.
Artificial Justice
- Where to watch: DocuBay
An informational social documentary that highlights the critical impacts of the rapid digital transition. It delves deeper into how AI, or artificial intelligence, is posing a threat to our judicial systems by replacing human judges with algorithms. Will they change the world for the better? Or create a shady future?
Hitler's Circle of Evil
- IMDb rating: 8
- Where to watch: Netflix
Set against the backdrop of the war ruins and Hitler’s reign, this Docuseries traces the rise and fall of the ruthless Third Reich from the perspective of the Nazi Party. With several archival footage, a narrator, historians, and experts sharing their sides of the story, Hitler’s Circle of Evil sheds light on the disastrous journey of these immoral leaders.