Dive into the Best Underrated Documentaries: Captivating Stories You Must Watch This Weekend!

Documentaries are an incredible way to dive deep into real-life stories, uncovering truths and emotions that often go unnoticed. They provide unique perspectives on various subjects, from nature and history to human experiences and social issues. If you’re searching for captivating documentaries that might have slipped under your radar, look no further! Here’s a curated list of some of the best underrated documentaries to watch this weekend.

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Nature & Environment

My Octopus Teacher (2020)

A filmmaker forges a bond with an octopus living in a South African kelp forest, learning about her world and the fragility of life.
Best for: Nature lovers and anyone seeking a profound connection with wildlife.
Watch on: Netflix.
IMDb Rating: 8.1.
Question: What do you think is the most surprising lesson the filmmaker learned from the octopus?

Jiro Dreams of Sushi (2011)

This documentary follows Jiro Ono, an esteemed sushi chef, as he pursues perfection in his craft, showcasing the dedication and artistry involved in sushi-making.
Best for: Food enthusiasts and aspiring chefs.
Watch on: Amazon Prime Video.
IMDb Rating: 7.9.
Question: How do you define mastery in your own life?

Blackfish (2013)

“Blackfish” explores the ethical implications of keeping killer whales in captivity, focusing on Tilikum, a whale involved in several incidents.
Best for: Those concerned about animal rights and ethics.
Watch on: Disney+.
IMDb Rating: 8.1.
Question: What do you think should be done to improve the conditions for captive animals?

The Rescue (2021)

This gripping documentary chronicles the incredible rescue of a Thai soccer team trapped in a cave, showcasing the bravery and ingenuity of the rescue divers.
Best for: Adventure seekers and real-life heroes.
Watch on: Disney+.
IMDb Rating: 7.8.
Question: What do you think motivates people to risk their lives for strangers?

Free Solo (2018)

Follow rock climber Alex Honnold as he attempts to scale El Capitan in Yosemite National Park without ropes, a feat of incredible physical and mental endurance.
Best for: Thrill-seekers and climbing enthusiasts.
Watch on: Disney+.
IMDb Rating: 8.2.
Question: How do you feel about extreme sports and the risks involved?

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Social Issues & Human Stories

Won’t You Be My Neighbor? (2018)

This heartwarming documentary delves into the life of Fred Rogers, the beloved host of “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood,” highlighting his influence on children’s television and kindness.
Best for: Families and anyone needing a dose of positivity.
Watch on: HBO Max.
IMDb Rating: 7.5.
Question: How has kindness impacted your life or the lives of those around you?

American Movie (1999)

An exploration of independent filmmaking through the lens of Mark Borchardt as he attempts to finish his horror film “Coven.”
Best for: Aspiring filmmakers and those who love behind-the-scenes stories.
Watch on: Amazon Prime Video.
IMDb Rating: 7.8.
Question: What drives you to pursue your creative passions?

Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father (2008)

A heartfelt documentary that chronicles a father’s journey to document the life of his son’s father, ultimately revealing a tragic story.
Best for: Those who appreciate emotional narratives about family and loss.
Watch on: Amazon Prime Video.
IMDb Rating: 8.5.
Question: How do you cope with loss and memory in your own life?

The Act of Killing (2012)

This film challenges former Indonesian death squad leaders to reenact their real-life mass killings in whatever cinematic genres they wish.
Best for: Those interested in history and the human psyche.
Watch on: Amazon Prime Video.
IMDb Rating: 8.0.
Question: How do you think art can be used to confront painful histories?

Icarus (2017)

An investigation into the doping scandal that rocked the world of sports, focusing on the implications for athletes and the integrity of competition.
Best for: Sports fans and those interested in ethics in athletics.
Watch on: Netflix.
IMDb Rating: 7.8.
Question: How do you feel about the pressure athletes face to perform at all costs?

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Music & Arts

Searching for Sugar Man (2012)

This documentary follows two fans on a quest to find a mysterious musician from the 1970s, revealing an inspiring tale of redemption and musical legacy.
Best for: Music lovers and those interested in hidden talent.
Watch on: Amazon Prime Video.
IMDb Rating: 7.6.
Question: What role does music play in your life, and has it ever led you to unexpected discoveries?

The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters (2007)

A humorous yet intense rivalry emerges between two arcade gamers as they compete for the world record in “Donkey Kong.”
Best for: Gamers and those who enjoy quirky competitions.
Watch on: Amazon Prime Video.
IMDb Rating: 7.9.
Question: What’s your favorite video game and why does it resonate with you?

Exit Through the Gift Shop (2010)

Banksy’s provocative take on street art, following a French immigrant who tries to become a street artist.
Best for: Art enthusiasts and those curious about modern art movements.
Watch on: Amazon Prime Video.
IMDb Rating: 7.8.
Question: How do you perceive the boundary between art and commerce in today’s world?

20 Feet from Stardom (2013)

This documentary shines a light on the backup singers who provided soulful support to famous artists but rarely received recognition.
Best for: Music fans and those interested in the unsung heroes of the music industry.
Watch on: Amazon Prime Video.
IMDb Rating: 7.4.
Question: Who are some of the unsung heroes in your life that deserve more recognition?

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History & Politics

13th (2016)

This documentary explores the intersection of race, justice, and mass incarceration in the United States, revealing the systemic issues at play.
Best for: Those interested in social justice and civil rights.
Watch on: Netflix.
IMDb Rating: 8.2.
Question: How can we contribute to social justice in our communities?

The Fog of War (2003)

Robert S. McNamara reflects on his role in some of the most significant events of the 20th century, including the Vietnam War, sharing his insights on war and peace.
Best for: History buffs and those interested in military strategy.
Watch on: Amazon Prime Video.
IMDb Rating: 7.7.
Question: What lessons do you think modern leaders can learn from historical events?

Inside Job (2010)

An in-depth analysis of the 2008 financial crisis, this documentary examines the factors that led to the economic collapse.
Best for: Anyone interested in economics and financial systems.
Watch on: Amazon Prime Video.
IMDb Rating: 8.2.
Question: What do you believe are the most critical reforms needed in the financial sector today?

Harlan County, USA (1976)

This classic documentary provides an intimate look at a coal miners’ strike in Kentucky, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of the workers.
Best for: Those interested in labor rights and social justice.
Watch on: Amazon Prime Video.
IMDb Rating: 7.9.
Question: How do you think labor movements have shaped the modern workforce?

The Social Dilemma (2020)

This eye-opening documentary explores the dangerous impact of social media on society, revealing how technology manipulates users.
Best for: Anyone using social media today.
Watch on: Netflix.
IMDb Rating: 7.6.
Question: What changes do you think we need to make regarding our social media habits?

Documentary Recommendations: Exploring Diverse Perspectives and Stories

True Crime

1. “The Confession Tapes” (2017)
   Investigates cases where people have been convicted of crimes they claim they didn’t commit.
   Best for: Fans of crime investigation stories.
   Question: What do you think are the biggest flaws in the justice system?
   Where to watch: Netflix.
2. “I Am a Killer” (2018)
   Death row inmates share their perspectives and recount the events leading to their crimes.
   Best for: Those intrigued by psychology and criminal behavior.
   Question: How do you think a person’s background influences their choices?
   Where to watch: Netflix.
3. “Killer Inside: The Mind of Aaron Hernandez” (2020)
   Delves into the life of NFL player Aaron Hernandez and his unexpected downfall.
   Best for: Sports fans and crime documentary enthusiasts.
   Question: How do fame and wealth affect mental health?
   Where to watch: Netflix.
4. “The Disappearance of Madeleine McCann” (2019)
   A detailed investigation into the disappearance of a young girl while on vacation.
   Best for: Viewers interested in unsolved mysteries.
   Question: What do you think happened to Madeleine McCann?
   Where to watch: Netflix.
5. “Wild Wild Country” (2018)
   Chronicles the rise and fall of a controversial Indian guru and his commune in Oregon.
   Best for: Those interested in cults and spiritual movements.
   Question: What draws people to cult-like organizations?
   Where to watch: Netflix.

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Nature & Environment

6. “The True Cost” (2015)
   Explores the fashion industry’s impact on people and the planet.
   Best for: Fashion enthusiasts and eco-conscious viewers.
   Question: How do you choose between style and sustainability?
   Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video.
7. “Before the Flood” (2016)
   Leonardo DiCaprio explores climate change and its effects around the world.
   Best for: Anyone passionate about environmental issues.
   Question: What steps do you think are most critical to combat climate change?
   Where to watch: Disney+.
8. “Racing Extinction” (2015)
   A group of activists raises awareness about endangered species and environmental destruction.
   Best for: Animal lovers and activists.
   Question: How can individuals make a difference in conservation efforts?
   Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video.
9. “Chasing Coral” (2017)
   Follows a team documenting the effects of climate change on coral reefs.
   Best for: Ocean and marine life enthusiasts.
   Question: What surprised you most about coral ecosystems?
   Where to watch: Netflix.
10. “My Octopus Teacher” (2020)
    A filmmaker forms an unusual bond with an octopus, revealing the wonders of the ocean.
    Best for: Those looking for a heartwarming nature story.
    Question: What did you learn about empathy from this documentary?
    Where to watch: Netflix.

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Social & Cultural

11. “The Hunting Ground” (2015)
    A gripping examination of sexual assault on college campuses and the struggles of survivors.
    Best for: Advocates for women’s rights and social justice.
    Question: How can colleges better support survivors of assault?
    Where to watch: Hulu.
12. “The Act of Killing” (2012)
    Explores the Indonesian genocide through the eyes of the perpetrators.
    Best for: Those interested in human rights issues.
    Question: How does the film challenge perceptions of morality?
    Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video.
13. “Miss Representation” (2011)
    Discusses how the media’s portrayal of women contributes to their underrepresentation in positions of power.
    Best for: Viewers interested in feminism and media studies.
    Question: In what ways do you think media representation affects society?
    Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video.
14. “The Mask You Live In” (2015)
    Examines how societal expectations shape boys’ identities and emotional expressions.
    Best for: Those interested in gender studies and mental health.
    Question: What can be done to promote emotional well-being in boys?
    Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video.
15. “I Am Not Your Guru” (2016)
    Follows motivational speaker Tony Robbins as he leads a seminar.
    Best for: Fans of personal development and self-help.
    Question: What strategies do you use to motivate yourself?
    Where to watch: Netflix.

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History

16. “The 11th Hour” (2007)
    A call to action on climate change featuring insights from various experts.
    Best for: Environmental advocates.
    Question: What can individuals do to help combat climate change?
    Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video.
17. “The Untold History of the United States” (2012)
    A documentary series examining lesser-known events from American history.
    Best for: History buffs looking for new perspectives.
    Question: What historical events do you think are overlooked in education?
    Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video.
18. “Five Came Back” (2017)
    Explores the impact of World War II on five prominent filmmakers who served.
    Best for: Film enthusiasts and history lovers.
    Question: How do you think war influences art and storytelling?
    Where to watch: Netflix.
19. “The Vietnam War” (2017)
    A comprehensive look at the Vietnam War through interviews and archival footage.
    Best for: Viewers interested in military history.
    Question: How do you think the Vietnam War changed American society?
    Where to watch: PBS.
20. “Inside Job” (2010)
    An investigation into the causes of the 2008 financial crisis.
    Best for: Those interested in economics and finance.
    Question: What lessons do you think can be learned from the financial crisis?
    Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video.

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Music & Arts

21. “20 Feet from Stardom” (2013)
    Celebrates the lives of backup singers who have shaped popular music.
    Best for: Music aficionados.
    Question: Who are some of your favorite unsung heroes in music?
    Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video.
22. “The Punk Singer” (2013)
    Chronicles the life of Kathleen Hanna, a pioneering figure in the punk music scene.
    Best for: Fans of punk rock and feminist music history.
    Question: How do you think music can be a platform for activism?
    Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video.
23. “The Beatles: Eight Days a Week – The Touring Years” (2016)
    A look at The Beatles’ rise to fame during their touring years.
    Best for: Fans of classic rock and The Beatles.
    Question: What do you think was the secret to The Beatles’ enduring popularity?
    Where to watch: Hulu.
24. “Amy” (2015)
    A portrait of the late singer Amy Winehouse and her struggles with fame and addiction.
    Best for: Music lovers who appreciate candid artist stories.
    Question: What do you think the industry could do to support artists facing mental health challenges?
    Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video.
25. “Exit Through the Gift Shop” (2010)
    Follows street artist Banksy as he examines the world of street art.
    Best for: Fans of art and social commentary.
    Question: What role do you think street art plays in urban environments?
    Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video.

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Health & Wellness

26. “Fed Up” (2014)
    Investigates the obesity epidemic and its links to the food industry.
    Best for: Health-conscious viewers.
    Question: What do you think about the role of corporations in public health?
    Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video.
27. “Heal” (2017)
    Explores the connection between the mind and body in healing.
    Best for: Those interested in holistic health practices.
    Question: How important do you think mindset is in the healing process?
    Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video.

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These documentaries not only entertain but also educate, offering fresh perspectives and deep insights into the human experience. So grab your popcorn, find a cozy spot, and get ready to be captivated by these incredible stories. Happy watching!