Documentaries

A big part of the appeal of documentaries is that they show real people, real situations, and real drama. Of course, that means when something unpleasant or uncertain happens, the queasy, anxious feeling you get in your stomach is very real, too. Perhaps the truest mark of a great documentary is that it contains at least one scene that elicits a <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/documentaries-that-change-partway-through/hannah-collins">strong emotional reaction</a> from the viewer.&nbsp;The following documentaries all have that in common. Each has a moment that's extremely disturbing to watch, either because it's tragic, unexpectedly <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/unknown-serial-killer-documentaries/megan-summers">violent</a>, or shocking in some manner. The subjects of these films differ wildly, but the impact they have on audiences is similar. Take a look at these unsettling moments in documentaries that make viewers gasp to know they're true events.

14 Disturbing Moments In Documentaries That Are Extremely Hard To Watch

Film

Disturbing Moments In Documentaries That Are Extremely Hard To Watch

Mike McGranaghan

Lists that rank the most fascinating, most trusted documentaries on every subject, from poverty and addiction to Wall Street and the oil industry.

Documentaries You Need to See

Too many new titles confusing and overwhelming you? Let these lists guide you in what to Search for on the Big 'Flix.

Netflix Originals

Entertainment

Netflix is more than just a warehouse of binge-worthy fictional series and blockbuster movies. It also offers an impressive repository of documentary series which span a broad spectrum of subjects. From chilling true crime stories to explorations of the human mind, these docuseries provide a deep dive into some of the world’s most intriguing and pressing issues.Some of the popular Netflix documentary series include Tiger King,&nbsp;an analysis of eccentric big cat conservationists and their fierce rivalries, and Making a Murderer,&nbsp;a deeply investigative look into the American justice system. Others like The Social Dilemma&nbsp;and Our Planet&nbsp;put a spotlight on societal issues and environmental challenges, respectively. These remain just the tip of the iceberg of Netflix's extensive catalog of docuseries that enthrall, provoke thought, and inspire.To help us rank this list of the best Netflix documentary series, we invite you to cast a vote on your own favorites. Your feedback will help prospective viewers navigate the vast selection and find a series that matches their interests and preferences. Join us in celebrating the documentary form's power to enlighten, inform, and entertain through Netflix's remarkable selection.

The Best Netflix Documentary Series

TV Program

The 100+ Best Netflix Documentary Series

Ranker Streaming

“Murderers are not monsters, they are men. And that's the most frightening thing about them.” - Alice Sebold

Killer Entertainment

Unspeakable Times

There are a number of documentaries out there that detail the different aspects and <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/behind-the-scenes-of-movie-fantasy-creatures/thomas-west?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">behind the scenes</a> crime footage about psychopaths, including criminal profiling of serial killers like Jeffrey Dahmer, taking an in-depth look at the psychology of a psychopath and looking at historical aspects of what turns a person into a criminal in the first place. What are the best documentaries about psychopaths?&nbsp;Without having information, it&rsquo;s hard to understand what can turn an ordinary person into a criminal mastermind, and how a person can feel no remorse for killing multiple people afterwards. These films take a closer look at these issues, as well as additional aspects of a psychopath. 
&nbsp; 
This list discusses the best documentary films discussing psychopaths, including: Most Evil: Up Close, America&rsquo;s <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/remorseless-killers/harrison-tenpas?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">Most Brutal Serial Killers</a>, and Making a Killing.&nbsp;Vote up those you recommend, and please add any that we missed.

Aileen: Life and Death of a Serial Killer

The Best Documentaries About Psychopaths

The Best Psychopath Documentaries, Ranked By Fans

Ranker Film

Lists about some of the most shocking and upsetting documentary films & series that you should totally watch anyway. If you're looking for an extremely disturbing documentary film, you'll find it on these lists!

Disturbing Documentaries

Sometimes, the best stories are the ones where nothing goes as planned. The classic twist-ending synonymous with Hollywood thrillers can often be even more shocking when it happens in real life, and that&#39;s precisely what happened in these <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-weird-documentaries-on-netflix/molly-gander" target="_blank">weird documentaries</a> that shift directions partway through.

On a quest for one thing, these&nbsp;curious filmmakers&nbsp;unwittingly stumbled into all kinds of bizarre hidden truths,&nbsp;from the dangers of&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ranker.com/list/most-gullible-mtv-catfish-subjects/zachary-benau" target="_blank">online dating</a>,&nbsp;to celebrity falls from grace,&nbsp;get-rich-quick schemes,&nbsp;and&nbsp;unearthing <a href="http://www.ranker.com/list/upsetting-dear-zachary-documentary-moments/randall-colburn" target="_blank">horrific&nbsp;crimes</a>. Here are some of the most&nbsp;abrupt changes in documentaries.

These Documentaries Took A Hard Left Turn And Left Audiences Shocked And Confused

Documentaries That Start Out As One Thing And Mutate Into Completely Different Movies

Hannah Collins

The best new documentaries range from the captivating docudrama to the hard-bitten and news-heavy, but what they all have in common is sharing true stories and experiences with a wider audience. The increase of streaming services has made it even easier to find a new docuseries about what you&#39;re interested in, whether it&#39;s baby animals or true crime. <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-new-amazon-documentary-shows-last-few-years/ranker-tv" target="_blank">Recent Amazon docuseries</a> and <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-new-netflix-documentary-shows-last-few-years/ranker-tv" target="_blank">new Netflix original documentaries</a> have captured the audience&#39;s attention as surely as the <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-new-hbo-documentary-shows-last-few-years/ranker-tv" target="_blank">latest HBO documentaries</a>. With so many great new documentary television series airing in the past few years, it can be tough to choose what to watch so this list is ranked by your votes.

Mixing scripted drama based on real events with expert opinion makes for captivating television, and series like The Lost Pirate Kingdom and The Last Czars blend both formats handily, while Age of Samurai: Battle for Japan, offers more reenactment than scripted drama. Docu-reality series such as Cheer and Couple&#39;s Therapy work in the other direction, balancing the immersive style of reality with the story arc of a documentary. <a href="http://www.ranker.com/list/best-new-true-crime-shows-last-few-years/ranker-tv" target="_blank">True crime documentaries</a> are also a staple of the docuseries, and the past few years have given audiences shows like Don&#39;t F**k with Cats: Hunting an Internet Killer, Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness, The Vow, Lorena, and more. But not all documentaries are dour. Educational docuseries like The World According to Jeff Goldblum, nature docs like Life in Color With David Attenborough, and the comedy documentary History of Swear Words are informative series that add curiosity and color to the world.

Whatever topic you&#39;re interested in learning in, there are new TV documentaries that will satisfy your curiosity. Vote up the best recent documentary shows, and see where your favorites rank.

The Best Docuseries of the Last Few Years

The Best New Documentary Shows, Ranked By Fans

Ranker TV

Along with a giant library of old favorites, you&#39;ll find some of the best new docuseries on Amazon. If you&#39;ve been browsing Amazon for new documentaries to watch, from true crime to sports, this list is regularly updated with the most recent original Amazon documentaries. What are the best recent documentary series to watch on Amazon?

Specializing in true crime, some of the best recent documentary TV shows, like Lorena,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/lorena-amazon-docuseries/jacob-shelton" target="_blank">features deep dives on familiar faces</a> from the news. Other documentaries on Amazon include investigative series like LuLaRich or Ted Bundy: Falling for a Killer, and the sports documentary Making Their Mark.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Of the most recent docuseries on Amazon, which are the best? Help decide and vote up the <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-documentary-tv-shows/ranker-tv?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">best documentary shows</a> on Amazon - and find out where your favorite shows rank.

The Best Recent Documentary Series On Amazon

The Best New Amazon Documentary Series of the Last Few Years, Ranked

Get ready to add the best new docuseries on Netflix to your watch list. Whether you&#39;re looking on Netflix for true crime documentaries or want to chill out with beautiful nature documentary series, this list of Netflix documentaries is regularly updated with the most recent additions to their massive documentary library. What are the best recent documentary series to watch on Netflix?

Of all the great Netflix documentaries, Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem and Madness definitely captured the public consciousness with <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/details-netflix-tiger-king-left-out/jodi-smith" target="_blank">its convoluted tale</a> when it premiered in 2020. Of the best recent nature docuseries, Our Planet and Life In Color both feature <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-documentary-narrators/ranker-film" target="_blank">documentary narrator extraordinaire</a> David Attenborough. True crime documentary shows on Netflix include&nbsp;Conversations with a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes, Murder Among the Mormons, and Crime Scene: The Vanishing at the Cecil Hotel. If you just feel like learning something there are even documentaries on Netflix on everything from naughty words (History of Swear Words) to meditation (Headspace Guide to Meditation).

Of the most recent docuseries on Netflix, which are the best? Help decide and vote up the <a class="edS-cl" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-documentary-tv-shows/ranker-tv?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">best documentary shows</a> on Netflix - and find out where your favorite shows rank.

The Best Recent Docuseries On Netflix

The Best New Netflix Documentary Series of the Last Few Years, Ranked

Did dinosaurs have feathers? Scales? Deep voices or shrill, piercing squawks? Australian accents? Sarcastic lilts? Check out these lists about the many bird-like reptiles that roamed and ruled over Planet Earth between 66 and 230 million years ago.

Raaaarrr!!

Ancient Flora / Fauna

The best documentaries about dinosaurs are the perfect balance of fun and educational. The best dinosaur documentary series ever shown on television offers <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/edutainment-tv-shows-and-series/reference">important scientific evidence and plenty of reenactments</a> of dino life. If you’ve been looking for the best dinosaur documentaries to add some excitement to your TV nights, this list of the best dino documentary series of all time will help you figure out what needs to go into your queue.From adorable (and dated) puppets and computer animation to the latest high tech renderings, the thing most dinosaur documentary series can offer is a chance to see <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-shows-about-dinosuars/ranker-tv">dinosaurs in action</a>. As the concept of what dinosaurs looked like keeps changing, the way dinosaurs in documentaries are portrayed changes too, which makes the shows from the '90s extra endearing. What makes dinosaur documentaries so unique is that all the reenactments are scientifically based and explained thoroughly by various talking heads. From the fossils of the 1989 Lost Worlds, Vanished Lives to the latest season of Clash of the Dinosaurs, you don't need a time machine to see dinos, you just need documentary series.Which shows do the best job sharing details on dinosaurs? Vote up the best dinosaur documentary shows and see where your favourite documentary series about dinosaurs and prehistoric beasts rank.

The Best Dinosaur Documentary Series

The Best Documentary Series About Dinosaurs, Ranked

Dive into the captivating world of HBO Max's documentary treasures for 2023, where storytelling transcends boundaries and history, crime, and the future converge in mesmerizing narratives. With a legacy spanning over four decades, HBO has unleashed its streaming titan, HBO Max (now simply Max), delivering a content lineup that's not only challenging the streaming landscape but also rewriting the rules of engaging documentary storytelling. From riveting true crime sagas that unmask the darkest human mysteries to thought-provoking journeys through time, these documentaries redefine entertainment. HBO Max has emerged as a crown jewel of streaming docs, offering a front-row seat to the untold stories that shape our world. Cast your vote, as we explore the <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-hbo-max-documentaries/ranker-film?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">best HBO Max documentaries</a> of 2023, and witness a symphony of reality that's more compelling than fiction itself.Several Max documentaries stand out this year including but not limited to 100 Foot Wave, which takes us on an awe-inspiring odyssey, tracing the daring journey of surfing legend Garrett McNamara as he conquers the world's mightiest waves. The breathtaking cinematography and raw storytelling plunge us into the heart of this adrenaline-fueled sport, kindling a newfound respect for the dedication and passion that drives athletes to their limits. Meanwhile, For All Humankind propels us into the depths of space and time, weaving a tapestry that connects the pivotal events of 1968 and 2020. Through the lens of history, humanity's triumphs and trials unfold, offering profound insights into our collective journey. As we embark on this visual expedition, remember that your votes shape the narrative of this list – let your voice echo through the halls of entertainment. Elevate the documentaries that resonate with your soul and steer fellow enthusiasts away from those that miss the mark. Join us in celebrating the power of storytelling and casting your ballot for the HBO Max documentaries that truly deserve the spotlight.

The Best HBO Max Documentaries Of 2023

General

David De La Riva

One of the best things about Netflix is its constant stream of new content. Once we finish devouring a binge-worthy television series, there's always a new one that's bound to pull us in. In the <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-netflix-original-documentary-series/ranker-streaming" target="_blank">realm of documentaries</a>, Netflix has stepped up its game to bring us some hard-hitting, expertly crafted series. Here's a collection of recent documentaries on Netflix that you have to check out.&nbsp;Staying up to date on the new documentaries on Netflix allows you to engage in the cultural conversations surrounding&nbsp;the streaming service's most popular shows. How would you be able to understand these&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/tiger-king-memes/anthony-barstow" target="_blank">Tiger King&nbsp;memes</a> if you haven't even seen the show yet? This list of new documentaries streaming on Netflix is full of shows that you won't be able to keep quiet about. From the shocking true crime series&nbsp;The Innocence Files&nbsp;to the mouth-watering&nbsp;Street Food, you'll want to share these titles with your friends, families, and co-workers. Another perk of watching Netflix documentaries fresh off the presses is the opportunity to be all caught up when a new season hits. Lucky for you, all of these series only have one or two seasons so far, making them a breeze to watch in a short period of time.Keep reading to learn what makes these <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-netflix-original-documentary-series/ranker-streaming?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">Netflix documentary series</a> the best of the best, and vote up the shows that you enjoyed the most.&nbsp;

The Best Recently Released Documentaries On Netflix

The Best New Documentaries On Netflix You Can Watch Right Now

Molly Gander

Smarts

Intelligent documentaries really aren't hard to come by, as most of them set out to inform in some way or another. Nevertheless,&nbsp;some of the <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/greatest-documentaries-of-all-time/jdbranded" target="_blank">best documentaries</a> are simply &quot;smarter&quot; than others. In other words, there's an extensive list of informative documentaries out there to ultimately make you smarter and, in some cases, even more aware of the world around you. Whether they set out to change the way people think or simply explain a significant event or issue in depth, these intelligent documentaries should not be missed. So, next time you're feeling out of the loop or want to expand your mind, check out one these potentially <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/life-changing-documentaries-list/ranker-film" target="_blank">life-changing documentaries</a>.A perfect example of such docs is the ever-eye-opening Food, Inc.&nbsp;Created to show the world the truth behind many of the foods we eat on a daily basis, anyone who's watched it has surely considered changing the way they eat, as well as how they view their food. The Oscar-nominated 13th&nbsp;also&nbsp;fits in here, as it takes a close look at the ongoing racial inequality in America. In short, many of these smart documentaries are just as important as they are intelligent.If you're feeling in the mood for an educational flick, check out some of the best intelligent documentaries to date below. You can also help rank them by voting up your favorites, as well as voting any down you feel aren't as great as the next.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Best Intelligent Documentaries of All Time

The Best Intelligent Documentaries, Ranked by Fans

“Dark” documentaries about true crimes, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ranker.com/list/famous-serial-killers-who-are-still-alive/ranker-crime">serial killers</a>, and sordid subject matter have become hot on streaming services in the last few years. Some people want uplifting films, though. Too much intake of the heavy stuff can become a downer, as it gets viewers dwelling on the worst aspects of our society. And there don't seem to be as many inspiring Netflix or HBO Max documentaries as there are disturbing ones.The following movies all buck that trend. They're nonfiction works that showcase unexpected people who are doing extraordinary things - without being too saintly - and send positive messages. The subjects are diverse - from parking lot attendants to domino artists - but their stories all have in common the quality of giving the audience hope for humankind. These are pictures to check out on streamers and VOD platforms the next time you want positive nonfiction entertainment.&nbsp;Vote up the documentaries you think are most inspiring.&nbsp;

Documentaries About People That Give You Hope For Humankind

Lists about what to expect when you're expecting, funny memes, movies to watch, delicious snacks to try, and much more to get you through these 40 magical weeks of pregnancy.

A Bun in the Oven

Lifestyle

Watching the best pregnancy documentaries can shed light on what to expect when you're expecting. There are a number of documentaries out there that detail the different aspects and <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/behind-the-scenes-of-movie-fantasy-creatures/thomas-west?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">behind the scenes</a> medical aspects of pregnancy and childbirth, including using traditional doctors and hospitals vs. home birth with a midwife, what to expect during your pregnancy, and the medical mysteries of childbirth. What are good&nbsp;pregnancy documentaries? You can help decide by voting up your favorites.&nbsp;Without having information, it’s hard to understand the science behind pregnancy, what your pregnancy will be like, and especially how to take care of a newborn. These topics are equally important to childbirth, and documentaries like this can help you prepare for this amazing transition in your life. A few of these docs about pregnancy are even available on Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime.This list discusses the best documentary films discussing pregnancy, including&nbsp;National Geographic: In the Womb, The Business of Being Born, Pregnant in America, Babies,&nbsp;and Waiting for a Heartbeat.&nbsp;Vote up those pregnancy docus you would recommend to your friends.

The Best Documentaries About Pregnancy

The Best Pregnancy Docs, Ranked By Expecting Mothers

Are we the only intelligent lifeforms in the entire universe? Probably not. Exploring the unknown worlds, motives, and visits of extraterrestrial life and UFOs.

Aliens.

Here is a <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/greatest-documentaries-of-all-time/jdbranded?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">list of documentaries</a> about aliens ranked by the community. This list includes popular and recognizable titles, along with a lot of independent films about aliens and UFO sightings. What are the best documentaries about aliens? Vote on the films below to find out, you might even be able to watch some of them on YouTube and Netflix.As you vote, the order of the list will be changed to see which documentary about aliens comes out on top. If you don't see your favorite on the list, add it along with the titles below so that others may vote on it, as well. This list currently includes titles such as Out of the Blue,&nbsp;with producers traveling around the world to investigate some of the most famous UFO events on record.Documentaries are nonfiction and made with the intention of displaying reality for historical purposes and to educate those watching the film. Most documentaries are driven by independent filmmakers and those passionate about the topics they are portraying. This is especially true for documentaries about aliens, which often make incredible claims and are filled with passion.

Close Encounters: Proof of Alien Contact

The Best Documentaries About Aliens

The Best Documentaries About Aliens | Good UFO Documentaries

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,&nbsp;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, <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/hot-girls-wanted-documentary-facts/berlin-sylvestre?ref=internalCrossLinking_keyword">Hot Girls Wanted</a>, 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.

The Best Documentaries About Sex

The Best 50+ Documentaries About Sex and Sexuality

Miniseries

The best documentary miniseries offer a more in-depth look at their subject than a film but are also digestible in a shorter time than longer shows. The best documentary miniseries ever shown on television may have episodes that are an hour long each but have a defined arc and a clear end. If you’ve been looking for the best limited series documentaries to add some educational value to your TV nights, this list of the best documentary miniseries of all time will help you figure out what needs to go into your queue.Both the BBC and Netflix have solid histories of creating short <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-documentary-tv-shows/reference" target="_blank">documentary shows</a> that tell their stories in no more than a dozen episodes. Even the expansive subjects of Planet Earth II or Natures Great Events are summed up in just six parts. Some series are even shorter, with only two or three episodes - great if you want to spread your documentary viewing across a couple of evenings. Cooked is a <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-food-documentary-series/ranker-tv" target="_blank">food documentary</a> with only four parts that match with each of the four natural elements, and Yellowstone thoroughly <a href="https://www.ranker.com/list/best-nature-documentary-tv-shows/reference" target="_blank">examines the natural wonder</a> in only three episodes.Which miniseries do the best job sharing their subject in six episodes or less? Vote up the best documentary miniseries and add any limited documentary series that are missing.

The Best Documentary Miniseries

The Best Documentary Mini-Series & Docuseries, Ranked

Documentary lists at Ranker - The ultimate source for hundreds of documentary lists and rankings