Best documentaries on Netflix in October 2024
Netflix is well known for its award-winning documentaries, including Making a Murderer, Our Planet, and American Factory. Here's TVGuide.co.uk's rundown of the best documentaries on Netflix in October 2024 - including some older classics, and some newer releases.
Daughters
Documentary
2024 | Angela Patton | 108 mins
Summary:Daughters follows four young girls as they prepare for a Daddy Daughter dance with their fathers - all of whom are in jail - as part of a special prison programme. The doc film also takes an unflinching look at how families are impacted by a family member being incarcerated.
Why you should watch: It's another tear-jerker, but sweet too. This is currently the highest-rated Netflix documentary film on the Rotten Tomatoes website. Chad Morris, who was involved in the doc, told Tudum earlier this year: "The film is really a tool for conversations: a tool for reflection, a tool for understanding, and a way to have insight into the fact that we're all breathing the same air out here." It's also been described as "poignant" and "beautiful" (FilmWeek). An important documentary, well worth watching.
Available now
Descendant
Documentary | History
2022 | Margaret Brown | 111 mins | PG
Summary:This striking and sensitive film follows descendants of the survivors from the Clotilda, the last ship that carried enslaved Africans to the United States. When the remains of the illegal ship are found, the descendants seek healing and justice. However, it's also an opportunity for them to celebrate their heritage and reclaim their story.
Why you should watch: This is another documentary with a rare 100% Rotten Tomatoes score, and is the winner of several awards. It was also named in the National Board of Review’s Top 5 Films of 2022, which is high praise indeed. The doc has been described as “infuriating” and “enlightening” (Deadline Hollywood Daily), which should be enough of a selling point for you to put 109 minutes aside to delve in.
Available now
13th
Documentary
2016 | Ava DuVernay | 100 mins
Summary:This thought-provoking documentary takes an in-depth look at the criminalisation of African-Americans and the prison-industrial complex. The title is a reference to the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery in the US and ended involuntary servitude, except as punishment for convicted criminals. The 100-minute long film examines whether this exemption has been used to continue the practice of involuntary servitude under the mask of penal labour.
Why you should watch: The numerous award nominations speak for themselves. The feature-length film 13th was nominated for eight Emmys in 2017, winning three of them. It was put up for an Academy Award too. The doc has been widely praised by critics, with The Guardian branding it "fiercely intelligent" and The New York Times describing it as "powerful, infuriating, and at times overwhelming". It's incredibly moving, and reveals the nation's history of racial inequality.
Available now
My Octopus Teacher
Documentary
2020 | James Reed | 85 mins
Summary:An award-winning documentary that chronicles a year in the life of filmmaker Craig Foster as he develops a relationship with a wild octopus in the kelp forests of False Bay, South Africa. Over the course of 12 months, Foster and the octopus form a surprising bond, which in turn gives him the opportunity to grow closer to his son.
Why you should watch: With an Academy Award under its belt, as well as an impressive 93% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, this heartwarming movie is unmissable. It has rightly been described as "gorgeous" (Variety) and "moving" (The Guardian). The 85-minute film is a must for nature lovers, and a bit of a tear-jerker too. Watch in wonder as Craig Foster is taught "to feel that you're part of this place, not a visitor". Mesmerising.
Available now
American Factory
Documentary
2019 | Julia Reichert | 110 mins
Summary:Acquired by Barack and Michelle Obama's production company, this film takes a thoughtful and troubling look at the trials and tribulations of a newly-opened Chinese-owned windshield factory in Ohio, USA. Early days of hope are soon swept away as the American workers clash with their Chinese masters.
Why you should watch: Another Academy Award-winning documentary, this film won Best Documentary Feature at the Oscars in 2019. The amount of awards it has been nominated for and won has its own Wikipedia page - that's how good this Netflix original film is considered to be. It also ends up "capturing a cross-cultural car wreck in slow motion" (Rolling Stone).
Available now
Miss Americana
Documentary | Music
2020 | Lana Wilson | 85 mins
Summary:This film follows American pop sensation Taylor Swift during a pivotal turning point in her career. It chronicles Taylor as a pop star, but also a woman who millions of fans look up to. The impact of which is something she must come to terms with.
Why you should watch: Chronicling her life between her 2018 stadium tour and the release of her album, Lover in 2019, this should be a must-watch for all 'Swifties'. Featuring never-before-seen footage of the star, including some of her more vulnerable moments, this is a documentary that brings fans even closer to the star, who continues to reach stratospheric heights year on year. It's also widely regarded as a pivotal moment in Taylor's career.
Available now
Beckham
Documentary
Summary:An in-depth look at David Beckham's football career, from his early days at Manchester United, and tumultuous England career and time at Real Madrid, to his taking America by storm. This doc, which also focuses on his relationship and marriage to Victoria, can be surprisingly emotional at times, especially when Beckham opens up about some of the lower times in his career.
Why you should watch: Whether you're a fan of Beckham or not, if you're into football, you should definitely give this series a watch. And even if you're not into football, it's an insightful look at one of Britain's most famous faces. It's worth the price of admission just to see the hilarious David and Victoria "working class" moment (which won a BAFTA earlier this year). Okay, so it's arguably the side of them they wanted us to see, but that alone is a compelling insight.
Available now
To Kill a Tiger
Documentary
2023 | Nisha Pahuja | 128 mins
Summary:A harrowing documentary film that follows a family in Jharkhand, India, as they campaign for justice following the brutal gang rape of their 13-year-old daughter. The film depicts father Ranjit's compelling, heartbreaking pursuit of justice - virtually unheard of in the country - amid deep intolerance from those surrounding him in their village.
Why you should watch: It is harrowing subject matter, yet it's a story full of hope, showcasing the depths of a father's unwavering love for his daughter. With a rare 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, To Kill a Tiger has been described as being "heavy but necessary" (Variety) and it doesn't pull any punches, no matter how devastating and anger-inducing. The central question is: "How far would you go to get justice for someone you love?"
Available now
The Tinder Swindler
Documentary | Crime
2022 | Felicity Morris | 114 mins | 15
Summary:This disturbing doc tells the story of how an Israeli conman used Tinder to connect with individuals, then emotionally manipulate them into funding his lavish lifestyle. Viewers follow the stories of three women caught in the conman's web, as they reveal how they fell for his lies…
Why you should watch: With a 97% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, The Tinder Swindler should not only scratch your true-crime itch, but might scare you off from using social media for a long time. The film was nominated for an Emmy back in 2023, and has been described by The Guardian as being "snappy and smart and leaves you wanting more". You'll be gobsmacked by the audacity of Israeli conman Simon Leviev, and left with compassion for his victims.
Available now
Virunga
Documentary | War
2014 | Orlando von Einsiedel | 90 mins
Summary:Virguna focuses on the conservation work of brave park rangers in the Virunga National Park in Congo during the rise of a terrifying M23 rebellion. The 100-minute long doc follows a group of rangers in their valiant bid to save the park's mountain gorillas from war and poaching.
Why you should watch: Another film that was released to wide-spread critical acclaim, Verunga was nominated for an Oscar back in 2015. The LA Times described it as being: "An urgent investigative report and unforgettable drama... a work of heart-wrenching tenderness and heart-stopping suspense." Not only does it follow the plight of the last mountain gorillas, it introduces the charming but embattled team of park rangers - including an ex-child soldier turned ranger.
Available now
Making a Murderer
Documentary | Crime
Summary:Making a Murderer tells the story of Steven Avery of Wisconsin, USA. Avery was wrongly convicted of sexual assault and attempted murder in 1985, and was imprisoned for 18 years until 2003. However, just two years after his release, he was charged in another murder case. This documentary looks at Avery's story, and asks the question 'how is a murderer made?'.
Why you should watch: When you talk about true crime documentary series, this was one of the original and remains one of the best. In fact, it's why many of us joined Netflix in the first place. Making a Murderer was a smash hit when it first dropped on the streaming platform in 2015, and the story of Steven Avery captured our imaginations. In 2015, 500,000 people signed a petition that was sent to the White House demanding Avery be issued a pardon. However, he remains in jail. A second series launched in 2018.
Available now
The Social Dilemma
Documentary | Drama
2020 | Jeff Orlowski | 94 mins | 12
Summary:The Social Dilemma uncovers the disturbing manipulation techniques 'allegedly' used by media and tech companies to get consumers addicted to their platforms. It is a documentary-drama hybrid that attempts to sound the alarm on "Big Tech", presenting a sobering look at just how they get us to keep scrolling…
Why you should watch: Are you worried about how much time you're spending on social media? Is your thumb aching from all that scrolling? Interested in finding out how they get you to keep refreshing your news feed? This might be the film for you. Described as "captivating" and "chilling" (SFX Magazine), it asks important questions about the dangerous human impact of social networking. Will it change your ways, though? Probably not.
Available now
Our Planet
Documentary | Action & Adventure
Summary:Narrated by the legendary David Attenborough, this series showcases our planet's most amazing animals, coupled with some spectacular cinematography. There are two seasons of this beautiful show to enjoy, with episodes focusing on penguins in the Antarctic, elephants in the desert, and honey bees looking for a new home.
Why you should watch: If David Attenborough's silky, knowledgeable narration isn't enough to convince you, then you should definitely watch this for its truly stunning cinematography. As the BBC has said, Our Planet "gives us some of the most dazzling images you are ever likely to view on TV". This is an absolute must-see for nature lovers, and fans of Attenborough's previous documentary series.
Available now
Tiger King
Documentary | Crime
Summary:This documentary series went stratospheric back during the pandemic. It takes a behind-the-scenes look at the community of big cat collectors and conservationists in the US - focusing on zoo owner, Joe Exotic. Joe is a fascinating character with a disturbing rivalry with a fellow big cat owner, Carole Baskin… Series 2 followed in 2021.
Why you should watch: It's no surprise Tiger King went viral back in 2020. It's a fascinating insight into the somewhat shady world of big cat conservation in the US, but perhaps the biggest draw is the oddball that is Joe Exotic. Come for the tigers, stay for the rise and fall of one of the most controversial characters in recent history. Binge-worthy is an understatement. We can't promise you'll like him, but you won't be able to turn away.
Available now
Blackfish
Documentary
2013 | Gabriela Cowperthwaite | 83 mins | 15
Summary:Focusing on an orca named Tilikum, this documentary takes an in-depth look at the controversy surrounding Sea World and how it keeps wild orcas in captivity. It looks at the dangers for both humans and whales when the latter are kept in captivity. Tilikum, who was captured in 1983, eventually killed three people.
Why you should watch: The documentary film, released 11 years ago, sparked a huge conversation about keeping orcas in captivity and SeaWorld's role in it all. The feature film had a huge impact on Sea World too, with the company losing £15m the following year (however, they denied this was down to the documentary's brutal exposé). Three years later, they announced they would be winding down their orca breeding programme, and phasing out orca performances. The doc's real world impact alone should be more than enough reason to put it on.
Available now
The Last Dance
Documentary
Summary:Released during the pandemic, this documentary series follows the career of basketball legend Michael Jordan, with particular emphasis on his final season with the Chicago Bulls in the 1997-98 season. It features exclusive footage of the Chicago Bulls, and features interviews with several of Jordan's former teammates, including Scottie Pippin and Dennis Rodman.
Why you should watch: This should be a must-watch for fans of basketball, let alone fans of Michael Jordan himself. While it may be a bit overly positive in Jordan's favour, it's still an insightful, entertaining look at one of the best athletes of all time, as well as one of the Chicago Bulls' most iconic seasons. A fascinating look at a living legend, and you don't have to be a fan of the sport to enjoy it.
Available now
Three Identical Strangers
Documentary
2018 | Tim Wardle | 97 mins | 12A
Summary:As infants, identical triplets David, Edward, and Robert were separated and adopted into new families. However, 19 years later, the brothers reunited by chance in New York - never knowing they were one of triplets. Their subsequent quest to find out why turns into a bizarre and sinister mystery. The documentary film tells their remarkable tales, and chronicles their private lives after their chance reunions.
Why you should watch: This is a truly fascinating story, and takes an interesting look at how genetically identical siblings develop when raised in differing socio-economic circumstances. Three Identical Strangers has been widely praised since its release, picking up a 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. It was considered for an Oscar nomination at the time, and won a British Academy Film Award in 2019. It's a heart-wrenching tale of how some siblings were torn apart, and looks at the tragic consequences of their cruel separation.
Available now
Fyre
Documentary
2019 | Chris Smith | 98 mins
Summary:In 2017, a music festival to end all music festivals was planned. The event, which would have taken place on a posh private island, was to welcome some of the world's best known celebrities and some of the biggest musicians. Except, everything went south and the festival didn't live up to exceptions, which led to it being postponed and eventually cancelled. This documentary looks at what really happened.
Why you should watch: A car crash in slow motion, this documentary film is well worth the watch just to see a cocky businessman's plans go horribly wrong. The doc follows the "greatest party that never happened". It proved to be a hit when it was first released in 2019, with 20 million households watching it within its first month of release. It was also nominated for 4 Emmys - which is testament to how good it is.
Available now
Formula 1: Drive to Survive
Documentary
Summary:With six seasons to get through, fans of Formula 1 are truly spoilt for choice with this hit docu-series. Offering exclusive behind-the-scenes footage and access to the world of F1, this is as interesting to die-hard fans of the sport as to newcomers who don't know a single thing about it.
Why should you watch: Drive to Survive has been widely praised for introducing millions of new fans to Formula 1. The insightful documentary series looks into the drivers and their lives, as well as the high-octane action of race day. It's made this series one to watch with F1 fans new and old.
Available now
The Deepest Breath
Documentary
2023 | Laura McGann | 108 mins | 12
Summary:Have you ever been diving? Ever considered diving down to depths the equivalent of the height of a skyscraper? Without an oxygen tank? Well, that's exactly what The Deepest Breath is about. This nail-biting documentary follows a group of divers as they perform daredevil dives, made all the more terrifying by the fact that the only oxygen they have is stored in their lungs.
Why should you watch: If you want a film that'll keep you on the edge of your seat - and not always in a good way - then The Deepest Breath will be right up your street. Dangerous stunts, and hairy scrapes, this'll tick every thrill seekers box. But it's not all excitement. There are some really sad bits too - with such dangerous undertakings, there is always going to be tragedy nearby… Exhilarating.
Available now
Lewis Capaldi: How I'm Feeling Now
Documentary | Music
2023 | Joe Pearlman | 96 mins
Summary:Scottish singer Lewis Capaldi burst onto the scene in 2019 and has since gone on to become something of a fan favourite in the UK. This 90-minute film follows Lewis as he battles his mental health while creating his second album. It's a surprisingly sensitive, behind-the-scenes look at one of the rising stars of Britain's music scene…
Why you should watch: Fans of Lewis Capaldi will love the closer look they get at the young singer's life and career. Capaldi is known for his humour, yet there are plenty of emotional moments to be found in this movie. As a review from The New York Times said last year, the doc "manages to escape most of the promotional trappings of its ilk, striking a more meaningful note than other pop star docs".
Available now
Trainwreck: Woodstock '99
Documentary
Summary:Woodstock '99 was a festival hosted in New York in 1999, with the aim of emulating the original 1969 Woodstock. However, as you can probably establish from the title, things didn't go to plan. The documentary series looks back at events that led to the violence and sexual assaults that took place at the disastrous festival over three shocking episodes.
Why you should watch: This three-part docu-series gives viewers a look at what exactly went wrong with the infamous festival. Featuring testimonies from people who were actually there, this doc has a respectable 88% Rotten Tomatoes score. Woodstock 1969 promised peace and music, but its '99 revival delivered days of rage, riots and real harm. Why did it go so horribly wrong? It's worth watching to find out.
Available now
Don't F**k with Cats: Hunting an Internet Killer
Crime | Documentary
Summary:A group of online sleuths track down a guy who posted a video of himself killing kittens. As they attempt to track down the perpetrator, Canadian porn star Luka Magnotta, they had no idea he would go on to commit an even more devastating murder... This documentary series follows some of the amateur truth seekers who managed to track down the animal abuser just through the power of Facebook and the internet…
Why you should watch: Fancy yourself as a detective? Well the people in this documentary series put their skills to the test and managed to catch a killer. It's an insight into the power of the internet and the hard work of a group of people who just wanted to help out. You might want to look away at some of the more disturbing videos, but the story is a fascinating one. The three-part series was one of Netflix's Top 5 most-watched documentaries of 2019.
Available now
Homecoming: A Film by Beyoncé
Documentary | Music
2019 | Beyoncé | 137 mins
Summary:In 2018, Beyoncé became the first black woman to ever headline at Coachella. This documentary film follows her journey towards performing at one of the world's biggest festivals. It offers an intimate look at the process from "creative concept to cultural movement".
Why you should watch: Beyoncé's documentary film Homecoming has been branded "one of the all-time greatest concert docs" (The Guardian), and was named one of the best films of 2019 by numerous news outlets. It was nominated for a whole host of awards, including six Emmys. If you love Beyoncé, you'll love this.
Available now
