The Best Documentaries About Sex

There are a number of good documentaries about sex out there that detail the different aspects of sex, including the science behind it, the laws of sexual attraction, sexual chemistry explained, the human anatomy, and the impact of pornography on society. No matter what aspect of sex you're interested in, there are lots of good documentaries, looking at a variety of subsets of the topic. What are the best documentaries about sex and greatest documentaries on sexuality? This list, ranked by film lovers, has the best that the film world has to offer.

The documentaries on this list cover any aspect imaginable when it comes to the topic of sex: physical, emotional, cultural, and scientific approaches. Many of these documentary films can be very informational, providing a historical approach, and even a scientific one. Want to watch one right? Be sure to check streaming services like Netflix for documentaries about sex.

This list ranks the best documentary films discussing sex, including Sex Explained, Hot Girls Wanted, The Girl Next Door, Porndemic, and American Swing. If you’ve seen any of the documentaries below, express your opinions and vote up your favorites! Or, if your favorite is missing, feel free to add it for a comprehensive list.

Ranked by
  • The Price of Pleasure: Pornography, Sexuality & Relationships
    1

    The Price of Pleasure: Pornography, Sexuality & Relationships

    Matthew Tennie, Gregory Mitchell, Stephanie Cleveland
    420 votes
    • Released: 2008
    • Directed by: Miguel Picker, Chyng Sun

    This insightful documentary delves into the world of adult entertainment and its impact on our intimate lives. Examining the industry's influence on sexuality and relationships, this doc offers a thought-provoking look at how pornography shapes our perceptions of sex and intimacy.

    The Price of Pleasure: Pornography, Sexuality & Relationships is a 2008 American documentary film directed by Miguel Picker and Chyng Sun. Examines the unprecedented role that commercial pornography ...more
  • Bi the Way
    2

    Bi the Way

    Ani DiFranco, Jonathan Caouette, Austin Head
    8 votes
    • Released: 2008
    • Directed by: Josephine Decker, Brittany Blockman

    Explore the often-overlooked world of bisexuality as five individuals share their unique experiences and perspectives. This enlightening documentary sheds light on the fluidity of sexuality and the importance of breaking free from conventional labels.

  • Porndemic
    3

    Porndemic

    Michael Louis Albo, Robert Bazell, Jon Bon Jovi
    139 votes
    • Released: 2018
    • Directed by: Spookie Daly

    Get an in-depth look at the adult film industry during the 1990s HIV crisis. Porndemic uncovers the behind-the-scenes stories and struggles of performers as they navigate through fear, stigma, and determination to survive in a tumultuous era.

  • Circus of Books
    4
    Karen Mason, Barry Mason
    5 votes
    • Released: 2020
    • Directed by: Rachel Mason

    Step into the world of Circus of Books, a family-owned gay bookstore and porn shop that played a pivotal role in LA's LGBTQ+ community. This captivating and emotional documentary reveals the challenges and triumphs of running a business that defied social norms.

  • The Perfect Vagina
    5

    The Perfect Vagina

    Lisa Rogers
    156 votes
    • Released: 2008
    • Directed by: Heather Leach

    Join filmmaker Lisa Rogers on her quest to understand the growing trend of labiaplasty and the societal pressures on women's genitalia. This eye-opening documentary examines the impact of unrealistic beauty standards on female self-perception and sexuality.

  • The Girl Next Door
    6

    The Girl Next Door

    Stacy Valentine, Veronica Hart, Ron Jeremy
    19 votes
    • Released: 1999
    • Directed by: Christine Fugate

    Delve into the life of Stacy Valentine, a small-town girl turned adult film superstar, as she navigates the highs and lows of her newfound fame. This intimate portrait reveals the person behind the persona and offers a rare glimpse into the world of adult entertainment.