33 Best Documentaries Of All Time That You Should Watch

Mainstream films are of course fun and entertaining but if you’re looking to watch something that is more than just fiction then you’re at the right place. Today we’re counting down our picks for the best documentaries of all time.

Do check out our curated list of the best documentaries to stream!

1. Cosmos (2014)

If you enjoy knowing about the truth of the universe, if the earth, stars, galaxy, planets, comets, and everything cosmology-related interest you then you, my friend, are in for a treat. This scientific documentary will never let you get bored or feel dull. Another plus point of this documentary is the music.

Such soft and thrilling music will for sure amplify your interest in this gem of a documentary. Alan Silvestri has done an amazing job with the soundtracks. Do watch this series as it is one of the best documentaries on Disney Plus.

IMDb: 9.3/10

Genre: Science documentary

Watch on: Disney+Hotstar

2. Free Solo (2018)

Simply put this is an amazing documentary film. It can be viewed in so many ways but one certain thing is it will teach you that “never to believe in the impossible”. Based on the endeavor of professional rock climber Alex Honnold to climb El Capitan, this documentary will make you feel like you are right there with him on the wall, seeing him hustling and doing his best.

It shows all the hardships of Alex in the most beautiful way. His strive to accomplish a possibly fatal dream is commendable. It is a must-watch.

IMDb: 8.1/10

Genre: Documentary/Sport

Watch on: Disney+Hotstar

3. Born into Brothels (2004)

Riveting is one word to describe this documentary. It makes us ponder a lot about what happens in most cities of India. Injustice anywhere is an injustice everywhere. Zana Briski and Ross Kauffman have done some extraordinary groundwork. Do give this masterpiece a try as it ranks among the best documentaries on amazon prime.

IMDb: 7.2/10

Genre: Documentary

Watch on: Prime Video

4. Icarus (2017)

An eye-opener, for sure. This documentary shows certain realities of life that everyone must be aware of. It tells about the corruption of the Olympic committee and the Olympic system. It tells that there is a thin line between everything and politics. It’s definitely one of the most important and best docuseries on Netflix.

IMDb: 7.9/10

Genre: Thriller

Watch on: Netflix

5. Baraka (1992)

Truly a visual treat. Directed by Ron Fricke, this documentary tells that whatever in the world that is different from our own selves has as much right to live on with the same dignity and grace as us. Be it a different color, religion, sex, or race everyone lives equally & together in this world and one should really be proud of it. A timeless and powerful observation of the world this documentary is. A must-see.

IMDb: 8.5/10

Genre: War

Watch on: Prime Video

6. Man or Wire (2008)

Based on a young French man named Philippe Petit, this documentary will keep you on the edge till the very end. It’s not just about the daring stunt but it also tells how it’s really necessary to follow one’s inner voice. It shows that one should always follow their dream no matter how ludicrous it may seem to others.

IMDb: 7.7/10

Genre: Indie film

Watch on: Prime Video

7. The Mole Agent (2020)

If there is one documentary where you’d laugh like crazy and at the same time sob too then this is it. Real-life touching characters, top-notch humor, and sad moments will tug at the heart of everyone while watching this amazing work. It’s a masterpiece and 100% recommended.

IMDb: 7.5/10

Genre: Docufiction

Watch on: Prime Video

8. Period: End of Sentence (2018)

25 minutes long documentary that won Oscar. Yes, we’re talking Period: end of the sentence. It’s a story about a group of women from Hapur, India who are fighting against the deeply rooted stigma of menstruation.

It is simple yet very poignant. Many people of both sexes do not understand what period is. It is a gem of a documentary that creates awareness among women particularly, poor ones. It is a short Netflix documentary series.

IMDb: 7.4/10

Genre: Short documentary

Watch on: Netflix

9. The Act of Killing (2012)

It is a very enriching documentary that will for sure leave you gobsmacked. It discusses the details of the Indonesian genocide of 1965-66. It shows how crime against humanity was committed. This piece of art is dark and will leave you questioning the constructs of morality. Do give it a try as it is one of the best history documentaries of all time.

IMDb: 8.2/10

Genre: History

Watch on: Prime Video, Hulu

10. The Imposter (2012)

“The truth is crazier than fiction”. If you haven’t watched this documentary yet it’s about time you do. It’s a thriller like no other. Based on true story its strong suspense will keep you on a hook. It’s raw, bizarre, and one of the most amazing mystery documentaries you’ll ever watch.

IMDb: 7.5/10

Genre: Mystery

Watch on: Prime Video

11. Minimalism (2015)

When one tries to seek happiness from social media platforms but still could not get it at that point in time you will find this documentary very consequential. With minimum choices in life, one could have the maximum amount of peace in their lives. This work is original & authentic and will urge you to introspect a lot. It is one of the best documentaries of all time on YouTube.

IMDb: 6.6/10

Genre: Documentary

Watch on: Prime Video, Youtube

12. Jiro Dreams of Sushi (2011)

The story presented is amazing. This documentary covers the story of Jiro Ono, owner of Sukiyabashi Jiro a sushi restaurant in Tokyo. However, it is much more than that. It shows what Jiro has done in his life in order to stand where he stands firmly today. It teaches that sacrifice never goes in vain.

IMDb: 7.8/10

Genre: Documentary

Watch on: Prime Video

13. Kiss the ground (2020)

Climate change and global warming are things that influence us all and this is definitely one of those works based on such issues that everyone should watch. It enriches us and tells us that things can be done in order to reverse such issues of nature. It is one of the top Netflix documentaries that will teach you the fundamentals of life.

IMDb: 8.2/10

Genre: Documentary/Climate change

Watch on: Netflix

14. Crip Camp (2020)

An Oscar nominee, this is not your average film about disability. As said by director Le Brecht there is an edge. It shows us that disability is a culture, it is like a community. It teaches that gatherings of like-minded people can accomplish anything. A must-see it is!

IMDb: 7.7/10

Genre: Documentary/Disability Revolution

Watch on: Netflix

15. 13th (2016)

It is a documentary that decodes the past and today’s society of racism and racial injustice. This documentary is very informative that encompasses the Black struggle in the history of America, and what it means to be black in America. Eye-opening which definitely emphasizes #BLM.

IMDb: 8.2/10

Genre: History

Watch on: Netflix

16. Minding the gap (2018)

Truly authentic. It is a documentary about the real-life challenges that an underprivileged being goes through. It is about rebellious teens trying to live free of their obsession with skateboarding. It will open both your eyes and mind. Visuals and sound with the amazing story are like cherry on the top. It is among the best documentaries on OTT.

IMDb: 8.0/10

Genre: Documentary/Skateboarding

Watch on: Hulu

17. Indie Game: The Movie (2012)

Directed by James Swirsky and Lisanne Pajot is a revolutionary work. It talks about the life of pioneers in the Indie game industry who sacrificed their money, health, and normality so to share their talent with the world. It shows that sweat and tears make everything worth it all in the end.

IMDb: 7.6/10

Genre: Documentary/Drama

Watch on: Netflix

18. The hunting ground (2015)

This is one of those extraordinary works that both students and parents must watch, together. It teaches that societal values of educating students of both sexes about the rape on-campus issue should never be overlooked.

It will create awareness about what really goes on in colleges and universities. An important documentary and must-watch for everyone out there.

IMDb: 7.4/10

Genre: Documentary/Rape crime

Watch on: Prime Video

19. 20 feet from Stardom (2013)

It is an absolutely fantastic work. Morgan Neville’s moving and enriching documentary about background singers will make you realize their talents we seldom care about. It shows the work of phenomenally talented women who made an integral contribution to the history of music. This documentary film is a sincere tribute to their work.

IMDb: 7.4/10

Genre: Documentary/Musical

Watch on: Hulu

20. Won’t You Be My Neighbor? (2018)

This documentary is about a man who wanted to be everyone’s caring neighbor. Mr. Rogers was a wonderful man who never talked down to anyone from the television screen. He just wanted everyone to know that they are special and loved. If you’ve ever wanted to believe in yourself, know your worth, capability, then watch watch watch this gem!

IMDb: 8.3/10

Genre: Documentary

Watch on: Netflix

21. An honest Liar

This incredible story is based on the world-renowned magician and artist James Randi. His humor, courage, and most importantly his humanity shines brightly in this documentary. It is a story about his larger life than a magician, conjurer, and so much more that he was as a person. Do give it a try!

22. Apollo 11 (2019)

It is a real-life documentary that focuses on NASA’s successful 1969 attempt to land a man on the moon. With astronauts Buzz Aldrin, Neil Armstrong, and Michael Collins. It is educational and inspiring that shows the historic achievement with spectacular cinematography. Do check out this captivating film.

IMDb: 8.1/10

Genre: Documentary/History

Watch on: Netflix, Prime Video

23. India Untouched (2007)

Directed by Stalin K, India untouched captivates you in the best way possible. It shows how discrimination against the Dalit community in India still prevails. This documentary is the best example of educating humans to eradicate untouchability from society. It is one of the best documentaries of all time India.

IMDb: 9.0/10

Genre: Documentary/Untouchability

Watch on: Youtube

24. Citizenfour (2014)

Yet another documentary which is crazy good. Edward Snowden is a true hero and patriot. Such whistleblowers have a strength of character which might make us normal folks dumbfounded. Salute to people like Edward Snowden and to his efforts. Very enriching and a must-see!

IMDb: 8.0/10

Genre: Documentary/History

Watch on: Prime Video

25. Fire in Babylon (2010)

One of the best sporting documentaries that you’ll ever see. It shows how the strive and struggle of building a West Indies cricket team were tough yet enchanting. It’s uplifting, captivating, and utterly inspirational. Watch the making of the invincible team of West Indies who climb to the top and still are one of the bests.

IMDb: 7.7/10

Genre: Documentary/Sport

Watch on: Prime Video, Vudu

26. BSF: India’s first line of defence (2016)

If there is one documentary among many that’d awaken a feeling of Indian nationalism from within our souls then this one can be your best bet. It is widely reckoned as “India’s first line of defence” against all ill-practices like smuggling, military assaults. It’s thought-provoking and everyone should watch it.

IMDb: 8.6/10

Genre: Documentary/Defense

Watch on: Disney+Hotstar

27. Our Planet (2019)

One of the most enthralling nature documentaries that you’d ever see. So well-narrated, filmed, and cut. With its marvelous cinematography, you’ll appreciate the beauty of the world a little more than usual. Go watch one of the best nature documentaries of all time on Netflix today!

IMDb: 9.3/10

Genre: Documentary/Nature

Watch on: Netflix

28. Amy (2015)

It’s a chilling documentary that is about the tumultuous life of English singer and songwriter Amy Winehouse who died due to alcohol poisoning just at the mere age of 27. This film will leave you with little doubt that how Amy was hounded to her death by people who were the closest to her.

You need to watch this as it is one of the best music documentaries of all time. RIP Angel.

IMDb: 7.8/10

Genre: Documentary/Musical

Watch on: Prime Video

29. Out of the Ashes (2010)

If you’re a cricket fan then you must’ve watched this documentary, if you haven’t then you’re in for a treat. Based on the struggle of the Afghani cricket team to qualify for the 2010 ICC T20 Tournament, this documentary will make you realize all the struggles and challenges they went through. You’ll love their journey.

IMDb: 7.0/10

Genre: Documentary/Sport

Watch on: Youtube

30. Searching for Sugar Man (2012)

Based on the life story of an artist named Sixto Rodriguez, this documentary shows that how he fell into a pit of darkness after he left the music industry without any success, what he did not know was his song became a massive hit in South Africa. It however was rumored that he had committed suicide. It’s another masterpiece one should definitely not miss out on watching.

IMDb: 8.2/10

Genre: Documentary/Music

Watch on: Prime Video, Vudu

31. Faces Places (2017)

It is one of the most wholesome documentary films that you’ll ever witness. Traveling with the two artists Agnes Varda and JR will be very poignant. This is one of those films that one should watch at least once before dying. No wonder it has a rating of 99% on Rotten Tomatoes.

IMDb: 7.8/10

Genre: French Documentary

Watch on: Netflix

32. They shall not grow old (2018)

This documentary is an eye-opener in the most emotional and surreal manner. Director Peter Jackson ties together actual historic footage with recorded interviews of WW1 survivors which is so, so beautiful and enthralling to watch. A genuine accolade to the soldiers’ struggle & triumph and a must, must watch!

IMDb: 8.2/10

Genre: Documentary/War

Watch on: Netflix

33. Sachin: A billion dreams (2017)

This documentary explains why former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar is known as the Master Blaster, and why people call him the god of cricket. The storyline, direction, and everything are just on point. It’s inspiring and admiring to watch his journey. Cricket fans, if you haven’t watched this masterpiece yet then what are you doing?

IMDb: 8.5/10

Genre: Documentary/Sports

Watch on: Sony LIV, Youtube

Go grab your laptop and binge-watch!