Netflix offers so much more than just fictional series and movies. Get ready to explore a captivating world of documentary series on a wide range of fascinating topics. These docuseries are like deep dives into some of the most urgent issues of our time.
Prepare to be amazed by Tiger King, a wild ride through the eccentric world of big cat conservationists and their intense rivalries. Or get hooked on Making a Murderer, a nail-biting investigation into the American justice system. Brace yourself for The Social Dilemma and Our Planet, two eye-opening series that shed light on societal issues and environmental challenges. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg! Netflix has an extensive catalog of docuseries that will captivate, provoke thought, and inspire.
We’re on a quest to find the best of the best Netflix documentary series. Your input is crucial in helping others discover the perfect series that matches their interests and preferences. Let’s come together and celebrate the power of documentaries to enlighten, inform, and entertain through Netflix’s incredible selection. Get ready to embark on a thrilling journey of knowledge and entertainment!
1. Making a Murderer
Making a Murderer is a captivating true crime documentary that delves into the life of Steven Avery, a Wisconsin man who was unjustly found guilty of sexual assault and attempted murder. Despite being imprisoned for a staggering 18 years, new evidence emerged, leading to his eventual exoneration. However, the plot thickens as he finds himself arrested once again, this time for another crime. This series is an ideal choice for individuals intrigued by the shortcomings of the criminal justice system, wrongful convictions, and the profound impact of DNA evidence.
Premiered: 2015
Actors: Dolores Avery, Steven Avery, Ken Kratz
2. Depp v. Heard
Premiered: May 21, 2023
Actors: Johnny Depp, Amber Heard
3. Evil Genius: The True Story of America’s Most Diabolical Bank Heist
Evil Genius: The True Story of America’s Most Diabolical Bank Heist takes us on a thrilling journey into the shocking events that unfolded during a bank robbery in Erie, Pennsylvania back in 2003. This gripping four-part series uncovers the twisted thoughts and motives of Marjorie Diehl-Armstrong, the brilliant but disturbed mastermind behind the crime. Prepare for a rollercoaster ride of manipulation, mental illness, and chilling suspense that will hook true crime enthusiasts and anyone fascinated by the darker sides of human behavior.
Premiered: 2018
Actor: Judy Ho
4. Wild Wild Country
Wild Wild Country is a captivating documentary series that delves into the intriguing story of the controversial Indian guru Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh (also known as Osho), along with his personal assistant Ma Anand Sheela, and their devoted community of followers in the Rajneeshpuram community nestled in rural Oregon. This series offers a thought-provoking exploration of various themes such as religious freedom, communal living, and the often overlooked downsides of striving for utopian ideals. For anyone with a fascination for cults, spiritual movements, or the clash between alternative lifestyles and mainstream society, this is an absolute must-watch.
Premiered: 2018
Actors: Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, George Meredith, Ma Anand Sheela
5. The Confession Tapes
The Confession Tapes is an intriguing series that really makes you think about the legitimacy of confessions in true crime cases. In each episode, they delve into a different case where a confession was given under some pretty questionable circumstances – think duress, coercion, or even deception. And as a result, it raises some serious doubts about whether these confessions led to wrongful convictions. If you’re into criminal psychology, curious about the power dynamics at play during police interrogations, or just passionate about fighting for justice, this series is definitely one you won’t want to miss.
Premiered: 2017
David Burns, Loretta Fisher, Brian Hutchinson
6. Flint Town
Flint Town is a gripping documentary series that dives straight into the water crisis in Flint, Michigan, shedding light on the city’s police department and their experiences. It’s a heartfelt exploration of social inequality, systemic racism, and the fight for fundamental human rights. This series strikes a chord with viewers who value thought-provoking social commentary and inspiring tales of resilience in the midst of hardship.
Premiered: March 2, 2018
Actors: Karen Weaver, Hillary Clinton, Bernie Sanders
7. Don’t F**k With Cats: Hunting an Internet Killer
Don’t F**k with Cats: Hunting an Internet Killer” is a mind-blowing true crime documentary that follows the relentless pursuit of online investigators. Their mission? To hunt down Luka Magnotta, a guy who disturbingly shared videos of himself brutally harming innocent kittens. This gripping series is perfect for those who love digging into internet mysteries, delving into the influence of social media, and witnessing the relentless pursuit of justice. Brace yourself for a wild ride!
Premiered: December 18, 2019
Actors: Deanna Thompson, John Green, Claudette Hamlin
8. The Toys That Made Us
The Toys That Made Us takes us on a delightful trip down memory lane, bringing back the toys that shaped a whole generation in the ’80s and ’90s. With each episode, we get an in-depth look at the fascinating history and the lasting cultural influence of these beloved toys. From Star Wars action figures to Barbie dolls, this series covers it all. Whether you’re a die-hard pop culture fan or a passionate collector, you’re in for a treat with this fun and informative show.
Premiered: 2017
Actors: Donald Ian Black, Mark Bellomo, David Vonner
9. Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich
Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich is a truly unsettling but absolutely necessary documentary series that delves into the life and wrongdoings of the infamous financier and convicted sex offender. By featuring heartbreaking interviews with survivors, it illuminates the intricate web of manipulation and abuse woven by Epstein. This series is a must-watch for those who want to grasp the complex dynamics between power, wealth, and systemic injustice. Brace yourself to be enlightened and infuriated by what you’ll see.
Premiered: May 27, 2020
Actors: Alicia Arden
10. Conversations with a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes
Conversations with a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes takes you on a chilling journey into the twisted mind of the notorious serial killer, Ted Bundy. Through interviews conducted during his time on death row, the series offers a disturbing glimpse into Bundy’s charismatic yet sociopathic nature, shedding light on his heinous crimes. It also explores the intense media frenzy that surrounded his trials. If you’re intrigued by criminal psychology and the unsettling fascination our society has with infamous murderers, this gripping series is a must-watch.
Premiered: January 24, 2019
Actor: Stephen Michaud
11. Night Stalker: The Hunt for a Serial Killer
Night Stalker: The Hunt for a Serial Killer” is a series that takes you back to the scorching summer of 1985 in Los Angeles, where Richard Ramirez unleashed terror upon the city. By combining archival footage and gripping testimonies from investigators and survivors, this series creates a bone-chilling portrait of one of America’s most infamous serial killers. If you’re a fan of true crime and enjoy a suspenseful manhunt story that delves into the twisted mind of evil, this is a must-watch for you
Premiered: January 13, 2021
Actors: Gil Carrillo, Frank Salerno