Streaming a new film is always exciting, but it’s the ones that tell the strongest stories that really deserve a watch. Watching a documentary can bring on emotions that have your mind blown one minute and your heart gushing another. Thanks to the invention of Netflix, we have thousands of genres right at our fingertips every day.
For something new to add to your queue, here are 5 must-see documentaries on Netflix:
13th
Titled after the Thirteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution, this is an incredible documentary dedicated to examining post-Civil War issues faced today. Director Ava DuVernay tells viewers how the prison system in the U.S. is modern day slavery and tells emotional and powerful messages using stories from the Black Lives Matter movement, Presidential Election, and more. Watch here
Hot Girls Wanted
In southern Florida, a group of five girls ages 18-early 20s recently graduated high school and escaped their home life to begin work in the amateur porn industry. Each girl discusses the pros and cons of working in the industry and the struggle to strike fame. Hot Girls Wanted gives the audience an idea of what the industry is really about while providing mind-blowing truth along the way. Watch here
Growing Up Coy
A documentary about the Mathis family and their battle with transgender rights for their daughter, 6-year-old Coy. When she was banned from using the girl’s bathroom at her school, her family filed a complaint with the state of Colorado’s Civil Rights Division which attracted national media. This documentary shows the improvements made in the journey for Transgender Rights and we have Coy and her family to thank for it. Watch here.
Fed Up
If you’re thinking about indulging in that fast food run, think again. This documentary unveils the dangers of the food industry in America, the obesity epidemic, and whether or not what we eat has caused more illness than people realize. Filled with eye-opening facts and images, Fed Up will have you reconsidering your dietary decisions. Watch here
What Happened, Miss Simone?
Nina Simone will always be remembered for her iconic singing, piano playing, and activism in the world of Civil Rights. Compiled of autobiographical tapes and interviews, this documentary tells the powerful story of the “High Priestess of Soul” and how she lived her life of brutal honestly, domestic abuse, and crippling depression while continuing to be the musical genius and fighting activist we’ve always known. Watch here
What are your favourite Netflix documentaries?