Alec Sears | April 10, 2025

Discover the best documentaries on Netflix by category

Top documentaries on Netflix you don’t want to miss

True crime, nature, history, and sports are the most popular documentary categories on Netflix. Here are some of the most talked-about films in these categories currently streaming on Netflix.

True crime and investigative documentaries on Netflix

If you love gripping mysteries, shocking twists, and real-life criminal investigations, these true crime documentaries will keep you on the edge of your seat.

• Making a Murderer: A deep dive into the controversial case of Steven Avery.
• The Tinder Swindler: The shocking story of a con artist who used dating apps to scam women.
• Don’t F**k with Cats: Hunting an Internet Killer: Internet sleuths investigate gruesome videos found online.

Nature and science documentaries on Netflix

From breathtaking landscapes to fascinating wildlife, these nature and science documentaries showcase the beauty and complexity of our world like never before.

• Our Planet: A visually stunning series narrated by David Attenborough.
• Seaspiracy: A thought-provoking look at the environmental impact of the fishing industry.
• The Mind, Explained: A fascinating exploration of how our brains work.

History and culture documentaries on Netflix

Dive into the past and explore pivotal moments, cultural revolutions, and thought-provoking social issues with these compelling history and culture documentaries.

• 13th: A powerful examination of racial inequality in the U.S. criminal justice system.
• The Social Dilemma: A must-watch about the dangers of social media and big tech.
• They Shall Not Grow Old: Restored WWI footage that brings history to life.

Sports documentaries on Netflix

For fans of athletics, competition, and inspirational stories, these Netflix sports documentaries offer an inside look at the world of elite athletes and historic moments in sports history:

• The Last Dance: An in-depth look at Michael Jordan’s legendary career and the Chicago Bulls’ 1997-98 championship season.
• Untold: A gripping series covering some of sports history’s most shocking and compelling stories, from scandals to underdog triumphs.
• Formula 1: Drive to Survive: A documentary series offering behind-the-scenes action and the human stories behind Formula 1 racing.
• Quarterback: A Netflix original following NFL quarterbacks on and off the field.
• Break Point: A deep dive into the lives of professional tennis players as they chase Grand Slam glory.

Whether you’re fascinated by true crime, captivated by nature, intrigued by history, or inspired by sports, Netflix offers diverse documentaries to keep you entertained and informed. With gripping storytelling and eye-opening insights, these must-watch films and series provide a deeper understanding of the world around us. 

New documentaries on Netflix: What to watch this month

Netflix regularly updates its documentary lineup with fresh releases. Here are some of the latest additions you should check out:

• American Murder: Gabby Petito: A harrowing look at the vlogger’s disappearance, this documentary debuted at number one in the English TV ratings and the Top 10 in 90 countries.
• The Twister: Caught in the Storm: The story of the rare EF-5 tornado that hit Joplin, Missouri, on graduation day 2011.
• The Only Girl in the Orchestra: This Oscar-winning short film focuses on Orin O’Brien, the first full-time female member of the New York Philharmonic.
• Court of Gold: A sports documentary following Team USA and their competitors during the quest for basketball gold in the 2024 Paris Olympics, Court of Gold features footage and interviews of global basketball stars like Stephen Curry, Lebron James, Kevin Durant, Nikola Jokic, and Victor Wembanyama. 

Whether you’re a fan of crime thrillers, nature explorations, or cultural deep dives, Netflix has something to keep you entertained and informed. Ready to start streaming? Read on further about watching Netflix on DISH..

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