We know that documentaries can inspire us and challenge our perspectives on the world. Unlike fictional films, these real-life stories offer a way into different cultures, historical events, social issues, and extraordinary human experiences.
Moreover, the best documentaries combine storytelling and thought-provoking content to leave a long-lasting impact on everyone. Whether you’re a longtime documentary enthusiast or new to the genre, these films represent some of the finest examples of non-fiction filmmaking from the past century.
In this article, we’ll explore the 15 best documentaries of all time, showcasing the diversity and power of this unique art form.
15 Best Documentaries Of All Time You Can Watch
Let’s discuss the best documentaries of all time in more detail, which you can watch at your convenience.
1. Samsara (2011)
Samsara is a stunning documentary that takes viewers on a global journey across 25 countries. The film’s title comes from the Sanskrit word for “the ever-turning wheel of life,” and this theme is reflected in its cyclical structure.
Ron Fricke directed the documentary, which explores the connections between humanity and nature through a series of breathtaking images and time-lapse sequences. Shot entirely in 70mm film over five years, Samsara presents a wordless meditation on life, death, and rebirth.
2. Harry Potter: A History Of Magic (2019)
Harry Potter has become the all-time favorite movie worldwide. For fans of the wizarding world, Harry Potter: A History of Magic offers a fascinating look at the real-world inspirations behind J.K. Rowling’s beloved series.
You can watch this documentary on Fubo TV, which explores the British Library’s exhibition of the same name, which showcased rare books, manuscripts, and magical objects that influenced the Harry Potter universe.
Harry Potter connects fictional magic to real-world history, where viewers will learn about actual “magical” creatures that inspired characters in the books and the origins of spells and potions in ancient texts.
For those interested in watching, the Fubo TV trial makes it easy to access this enchanting documentary without purchasing a subscription.
3. Enthusiasm (1930)
Enthusiasm is a documentary directed by Dziga Vertov, which pushed the boundaries of filmmaking and sound design. Created during the first Five-Year Plan, the film celebrates industrial progress in the Donbas region of Ukraine.
What makes Enthusiasm remarkable is its innovative use of sound. As one of the first Soviet sound films, Vertov captured the rhythms of factory work, the clang of machinery, and the sounds of workers’ voices to create a dynamic audio landscape. This showcases the potential of the medium to create powerful audiovisual experiences.
4. Grizzly Mans (2005)
Werner Herzog’s Grizzly Man tells the extraordinary and tragic story of Timothy Treadwell, a man who spent 13 summers living among wild grizzly bears in Alaska. The documentary paints a complex portrait of a man deeply connected to nature but ultimately consumed by it.
It raises thought-provoking questions about the relationship between humans and wild animals, as well as the nature of documentary filmmaking itself. This documentary can encourage you to consider your own beliefs about wilderness and human nature.
5. The Whistleblower (2010)
The Whistleblower, available on Fubo TV, is a hard-hitting documentary that exposes corruption and human rights abuses within international peacekeeping operations. The film follows the true story of Kathryn Bolkovac, a former Nebraska police officer who uncovered a sex trafficking ring in post-war Bosnia while working as a U.N. peacekeeper.
Director by Larysa Kondracki, the documentary presents a fight against a system that seemed more interested in protecting its reputation than addressing serious crimes. It’s a challenging watch but important for anyone interested in human rights and global politics.
6. 13th (2016)
13th is a searing examination of the U.S. criminal justice system and its disproportionate impact on African Americans. This documentary is directed by Ava DuVernay, where he refers to the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery “except as a punishment for crime.”
The documentary traces a line from slavery through Jim Crow laws, the war on drugs, and today’s prison-industrial complex. What sets this film apart is its ability to connect historical events to contemporary issues, showing how past injustices continue to shape present-day realities.
7. Free Solo (2018)
Free Solo presents rock climber Alex Honnold as he prepares for and attempts a free solo climb (without ropes or safety gear) of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park. Directors Jimmy Chin and Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi capture not only the incredible physical feat but also the psychological preparation and personal relationships that shape Honnold’s journey.
The film’s breathtaking cinematography makes Free Solo truly compelling and passionate. The filmmakers don’t shy away from the ethical questions raised by both Honnold’s dangerous pursuit and their own role in documenting it. With his hard work and dedication, this documentary can create an unforgettable viewing experience.
8. Migrations: Herd On The Move (2020)
Migrations: Herd on the Move takes viewers on a global journey to witness some of nature’s most impressive animal migrations. This visually stunning documentary showcases the incredible distances traveled by various species, from wildebeest in Africa to monarch butterflies in North America.
Beyond its visual appeal, Migrations delves into the science behind these journeys, exploring how animals migrate and face the challenges along the way. This documentary highlights the delicate balance of ecosystems around the world.
9. For Sama (2019)
For Sama is a personal documentary that offers a unique perspective on the Syrian civil war. Filmmaker Waad al-Kateab recorded her life in Aleppo over five years, capturing the horror of war and moments of joy and hope.
The film is framed as a letter to her daughter Sama, who was born during the conflict. By showcasing the bombings and violence, she also captures the resilience and humanity of Aleppo’s residents.
The film provides a powerful counterpoint to news reports, putting human faces to a complex geopolitical conflict. This documentary raises difficult questions about the choices people make in impossible situations. She gives birth to the child in a dangerous environment and creates a documentary that is an actual historical record.
10. O.J.: Made In America (2016)
O.J.: Made in America is an epic, eight-hour documentary directed by Ezra Edelman. This portrays the life of O.J. Simpson, who examines race, celebrity, and the American justice system. While the film covers Simpson’s famous murder trial in detail, it goes far beyond that, exploring his rise to fame.
What makes this documentary stand out is its thoroughness and modulations. The film depicts complex topics, tackling domestic violence, media hype, race, and class issues in American society.
OJ is more than just a true crime documentary; it explores late 20th-century American culture. This documentary won an Oscar for American Cinema, an Academy Award for Best Documentary, and many other awards.
11. The DOC (2022)
The DOC tells the story of the rapper and producer; it is also available on Fubo TV. The DOC’s career was shattered by a car accident that damaged his vocal cords. This intimate documentary explores talent, loss, and redemption themes in the hip-hop industry.
Director Dave Caplan combines the footage and interviews with hip-hop legends. The film doesn’t just focus on the past; it also follows The D.O.C.’s journey to reconnect with his voice and his place in the music world. It’s a must-watch for hip-hop fans and anyone interested in stories of perseverance.
12. Undefeated (2011)
Undefeated is an Oscar-winning documentary that portrays much more than sports. It follows the Manassas Tigers, an underestimated high school football team in North Memphis. But this is also about a powerful look at education, poverty, and the impact of dedicated mentorship.
Directors Daniel Lindsay and T.J. Martin focus on the team’s volunteer coach, Bill Courtney, and three of his players as they challenge both on and off the field.
The filmmakers spent a year with the team, allowing them to capture intimate moments and build trust with their subjects. The result is a documentary that feels less like a sports movie and more like a coming-of-age story, filled with heart and genuine human connection.
13. Man On Wire (2008)
Man on Wire, released in 2008, recounts the audacious feat of Philippe Petit, who in 1974 illegally rigged a wire between the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center and performed a high-wire walk.
Director James Marsh creates a documentary that feels like an audacious film. It delves into the personalities and relationships of those involved, whose passion and determination drive the narrative forward. Petit himself is a charismatic central figure, but the documentary never mentions Tower fate, rooms, etc. This documentary serves as both a thrilling adventure story and a celebration of human achievement.
14. Bowling For Columbine (2002)
Bowling For Columbine is a provocative exploration of gun violence in America, centered around the 1999 Columbine High School shooting, directed by Michael Moore. He goes beyond simply arguing for or against gun control; instead, he examines the culture of fear underlying America’s relationship with firearms.
He draws unexpected connections, comparing U.S. gun violence rates to those of other countries and exploring historical and social factors that might contribute to the problem. This documentary remains a thought-provoking watch, even as the debate around gun control continues to evolve.
15. Man Vs. Shark (2019)
Man Vs. Shark follows marine biologist Jeremiah Sullivan as he tests a new protective suit designed to withstand shark bites. This documentary combines the thrill of shark encounters with scientific exploration.
The film not only showcases Sullivan’s daring experiments but also provides valuable information about shark behavior and the importance of these often misunderstood creatures to marine ecosystems. The documentary also includes plenty of heart-pounding moments describing conversations between humans and sharks.
Conclusion: Stream The Best Documentaries Of All Time
Documentaries are an incredible option for non-fiction films available to viewers today. From intimate personal stories to historical epics, from nature documentaries to social justice, the world of documentary filmmaking offers something for every interest and taste.
Whether you’re looking to learn about a new subject, gain a different perspective on a familiar issue, or simply be moved by real-life stories, these 15 documentaries provide the best to understand the beauty of our world all the time.
The best documentaries don’t just inform; they inspire curiosity and encourage us to engage more deeply with the world around us. So, start watching the best documentaries of all time, where you’ll learn from people’s real events stories.
FAQs
Where can I watch the best documentaries?
Many documentaries are available on streaming services like Fubo TV, Netflix, Amazon Prime, HBO Max, or through rental or purchase options.
What makes documentaries greater than fictional movies?
Documentaries combine compelling storytelling with important or interesting subject matter. They present information in an engaging way, offer new perspectives, and leave a lasting impact on viewers.
Are documentaries always 100% factual?
While documentaries are based on real events and people, they still involve creative choices in filming and editing. It’s essential to approach them critically and seek additional information on topics of interest.
Why are some documentaries considered among the best of all time?
Few documentaries are considered the best of all time as they tackle important historical events, offer perspectives, and motivate through real-life events of people who were revolutionary for their time. Their influence on later filmmakers also contributes to their lasting importance.
How can watching documentaries benefit me?
Documentaries can expand your knowledge, increase empathy, and inspire you to learn about various subjects. They’re a great way to engage with the world and explore your understanding of different issues and cultures.
Hi there! I’m Nousheen, a passionate and creative content writer. I believe in the power of words to inform, engage, and inspire. I strive to bring that magic into every piece I write. I am always eager to delve into new subjects and translate my findings into engaging articles. Above all, I am driven by a genuine love for writing.