With the weekend at our doorstep, we’ve decided to take some time for a little Netflix binge. We know, we know, that’s what pretty much every weekend has looked like since the start of the stay-at-home order. But this time, we’re taking the educational route, with a smattering of all the best documentaries available. From inspirational tales to true crime to a conspiracy theory or two, this list has all the picks you’ll want to stream right now.
Here are 10 of the best documentaries to check out on Netflix Canada right now.
MY OCTOPUS TEACHER
This first pick is an out-of-the-box love story of sorts. It follows a filmmaker and his unconventional friendship with an octopus. Don’t worry though, it’s not in a weird way. The doc is educational and emotional, and will definitely have you looking at nature through new eyes.
Where: Find it on Netflix.
THE LAST DANCE
If you like feel-good sports docs, this is the pick for you. You can unravel the past of basketball legend Michael Jordan in this 10-part docuseries. The superstar has had quite the journey over the years, so you’ll definitely want an inside peek.
Where: Find it on Netflix.
BECOMING
Speaking of incredible journeys, if you like the book memoir of the same name, you’ll love the Becoming documentary. Former First Lady and inaugural fashion icon, Michelle Obama tells her story from childhood to adult glory in her novel. In this documentary, you can catch all behind the scenes footage of the historic tour promoting that book.
Where: Find it on Netflix.
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CRIP CAMP
First Lady-ing, fashion icon-ing, and book tours aren’t all Michelle Obama does! She and Former President Barack Obama made their executive producing debut with this insightful documentary. The heartfelt and emotional flick explores a groundbreaking summer camp that helps teens with disabilities organize a movement. This one’s definitely an inspiring pick.
Where: Find it on Netflix.
13th
This next selection is an awarding winning doc from legendary director Ava DuVernay. Scholars, activists, and politicians come together with a thought-provoking analysis of the criminalization of African Americans and the U.S. prison boom. This pick is a topical and important educational selection that is definitely a must-see.
Where: Find it on Netflix.
JEFFERY EPSTEIN: FILTHY RICH
If you didn’t watch this documentary when it first dropped, it’s never too last to get caught up. You’ve probably heard all about the corrupt and appalling behaviour by American financier and convicted sex offender Jeffery Epstein. But if you want all the enraging details, this is where you’ll find them. The film goes into a first-hand account of the abuse his victims faced. Plus, the criminal proceedings that followed. Fair warning, this one’s hard to watch.
Where: Find it on Netflix.
CONVERSATION WITH A KILLER: THE TED BUNDY TAPES
Speaking of true crime and scary people, you can get inside the mind of a killer with this next documentary pick. The real tapes from conversations with prolific serial killer Ted Bundy are on display in this chilling flick. Follow the investigation and trial throughout this four-part series.
Where: Find it on Netflix.
AMERICAN MURDER: THE FAMILY NEXT DOOR
Okay, okay, we promise this is our last true crime pick. The chilling story of the disappearance of Shanann Watts and her children is explored in this Netflix documentary. You’ll see raw, firsthand footage of these true events in an investigative piece that’ll keep you hooked all the way through.
Where: Find it on Netflix.
THE SOCIAL DILEMMA
Want to log off Instagram and never open a social media app again? If you said no, this doc might change your mind. Some of the brains behind big tech corporations have come together to talk about the unintended side effects of an attention economy. The doc analyzes some very interesting social patterns that these apps could be to blame for. It’s topical, relevant, and will definitely make you think twice about critically consuming the information you find online.
Where: Find it on Netflix.
SURVIVING DEATH
Last but not least, we’ve got a new docuseries that’s caught quite a bit of attention. This six-part Netflix original explores the existential question of what happens to us after we die. The series dives into all kinds of topics, like near-death experiences, mediums, and reincarnation. It’s definitely one that’ll make you think.
Where: Find it on Netflix.
So pop some popcorn, settle in, and enjoy these Netflix documentaries. We know we’ll be adding them to our weekend lineup.
