The Most Popular Documentary on Netflix, Ranked

Choose the documentary you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Jul 23, 2024 06:48
Choosing the right documentary to watch on Netflix can often feel overwhelming due to the sheer number of options available. Having a list that ranks these documentaries based on popularity helps streamline the decision-making process, guiding viewers to high-quality content that has resonated with a broad audience. This ranking is not static; it reflects the dynamic tastes and preferences of viewers like you. By voting for your favorite documentaries, you contribute to a more accurate and representative listing. This active participation ensures that the ranking remains helpful and current, providing a valuable resource for all documentary enthusiasts.

What Is the Most Popular Documentary on Netflix?

  1. 1
    21
    points

    The Social Dilemma

    A documentary-drama hybrid exploring the dangerous human impact of social networking, with tech experts sounding the alarm on their own creations.
    • Release Year: 2020
    • Genre: Documentary-Drama
  2. 2
    18
    points

    13th

    An in-depth look at the prison system in the United States and how it reveals the nation's history of racial inequality.
    • Release Year: 2016
    • Director: Ava DuVernay
  3. 3
    18
    points

    Making a Murderer

    This documentary series explores the story of Steven Avery, a man who was wrongfully convicted of sexual assault and later charged with murder.
    • Release Year: 2015
    • Episodes: 20
  4. 4
    14
    points

    Wild Wild Country

    A documentary series about the controversial Indian guru Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh (Osho), his community of followers in the Oregon desert, and the massive conflict with local ranchers.
    • Release Year: 2018
    • Episodes: 6
  5. 5
    7
    points

    Icarus

    A documentary that starts with a personal experiment in doping and unfolds into an expose of the Russian doping scandal at the Sochi 2014 Olympics.
    • Release Year: 2017
    • Director: Bryan Fogel
  6. 6
    2
    points

    American Factory

    A documentary film about the culture clash that occurs when a Chinese billionaire reopens a factory in post-industrial Ohio.
    • Release Year: 2019
    • Directors: Steven Bognar and Julia Reichert
  7. 7
    1
    points

    Blackfish

    A documentary focusing on the controversy surrounding captive killer whales, particularly Tilikum, an orca held by SeaWorld.
    • Release Year: 2013
    • Director: Gabriela Cowperthwaite
  8. 8
    1
    points

    Our Planet

    A nature documentary series exploring the beauty and fragility of our natural world, narrated by Sir David Attenborough.
    • Release Year: 2019
    • Episodes: 8
  9. 9
    1
    points

    Tiger King

    A true crime documentary about the life of zookeeper Joe Exotic and the bizarre events surrounding his zoo.
    • Release Year: 2020
    • Episodes: 8
  10. 10
    2
    points

    The Last Dance

    A sports documentary series chronicling the career of Michael Jordan, with particular focus on his last season with the Chicago Bulls.
    • Release Year: 2020
    • Episodes: 10

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About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular documentary on Netflix. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or documentary is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 6382 views
  • 83 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Movers & Shakers

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each documentary once every 24 hours. The rank of each documentary is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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Additional Information

More about the Most Popular Documentary on Netflix

Documentaries have become a significant part of Netflix's content. They attract a wide range of viewers. These films cover many topics, from true crime to nature. They often provide in-depth looks at real events and issues. This format allows for detailed storytelling and exploration.

The rise of streaming services has changed how people watch documentaries. Before, viewers had to rely on TV channels or special screenings. Now, anyone can access these films at any time. This shift has made documentaries more popular and accessible.

Netflix has played a key role in this change. It offers a vast library of documentaries. This collection includes works from well-known filmmakers and new voices. The platform's recommendation system helps users find content that suits their interests. This feature has introduced many people to documentaries they might not have found otherwise.

One reason documentaries on Netflix are popular is their quality. The platform invests in high-production values. This commitment ensures that the films look and sound great. High-quality production makes the viewing experience more enjoyable. It also helps convey the subject matter more effectively.

Another reason is the variety of topics covered. Netflix documentaries span many genres. Some focus on true crime, exploring real-life mysteries and criminal cases. Others delve into nature, showcasing the beauty and complexity of the natural world. Many documentaries tackle social issues, providing insight into important topics. This variety means there is something for everyone.

The storytelling in these documentaries is also a draw. Filmmakers use different techniques to engage viewers. They might use interviews, archival footage, or reenactments. These methods help bring the stories to life. Good storytelling keeps viewers interested and makes the content memorable.

Netflix also releases documentaries that spark conversation. These films often highlight lesser-known stories or perspectives. They can challenge viewers' beliefs or introduce them to new ideas. This aspect makes documentaries more than just entertainment. They become a way to learn and grow.

The global reach of Netflix means these documentaries can have a wide impact. People from different countries and cultures can watch the same film. This shared experience can lead to global discussions. It also allows for a greater understanding of different viewpoints.

The success of documentaries on Netflix has influenced other platforms. Many now invest in their own documentary content. This competition benefits viewers, as it leads to more high-quality films. It also means that documentaries continue to evolve and improve.

In conclusion, documentaries on Netflix have become very popular. The platform's investment in quality and variety has paid off. These films offer viewers a chance to learn, explore, and engage with the world. The rise of streaming has made documentaries more accessible than ever before. This trend shows no signs of slowing down.

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