Netflix's vast library includes countless documentaries, but only a select few truly stand out. As seasoned viewers and content experts, we've handpicked the top 16 must-watches from 2020, covering war, space, nature, true crime, sports, and more. These films offer gripping stories, stunning visuals, and profound insights that educate and entertain.
War has inspired countless documentaries, and Netflix delivers some of the most compelling accounts of history's pivotal conflicts.
This acclaimed 10-part series chronicles America's divisive 19-year involvement in Vietnam. Drawing from over 80 firsthand accounts on both sides, rare archival footage, and 17+ hours of runtime, it provides unparalleled depth.
This British production brings WWII to life with rare colorized footage from battlefields, cities, and seas. Spanning 13 episodes, it covers key events from the North African campaign to Japan's invasion of China.
A gripping Netflix Original, this three-part series reconstructs the 2015 terrorist attacks on Paris, detailing the harrowing timeline through survivor testimonies and evidence.
For more, explore our full guide to war documentaries on Netflix.
Escape earthly turmoil with these awe-inspiring looks at space exploration and cosmic mysteries.
This 12-part series follows astronauts Scott Kelly and Mikhail Kornienko on their year aboard the International Space Station, capturing launch, zero-gravity life, and groundbreaking research.
In just 32 minutes, this accessible film explains how scientists hunt for extraterrestrial life—ideal for newcomers to astronomy.
Discover more space content on Amazon too.
Dive into Earth's wonders with these visually spectacular films on wildlife and ecosystems.
Narrated by Stephen Fry, this delightful film showcases birds' elaborate mating dances, blending humor with stunning 4K footage.
Coral reefs, Earth's 'rainforests of the sea' housing 25% of marine life and thriving for 485 million years, face unprecedented threats from climate change. This urgent film reveals the global crisis.
Need more? See our roundup of nature documentaries on Netflix.
The BBC's legacy of excellence shines through these standout productions.
Trace Aardman Animations—creators of Wallace & Gromit, Shaun the Sheep, and Oscar-winner Chicken Run—from a Bristol startup to a $1B+ powerhouse.
Browse more BBC gems on Netflix.
Travel vicariously from home with these immersive adventures.
Journalist David Farrier uncovers 'dark tourism' hotspots, from Colombia's Pablo Escobar tours to Japan's nuclear sites.
Narrated by Robert Redford, this IMAX 3D spectacle tours U.S. icons like Yellowstone, Yosemite, Glacier, and Arches.
View our complete travel documentaries list.
True crime captivates with real-life mysteries and injustices.
The series that revived true crime obsession follows Steven Avery's wrongful conviction, release, and controversial second murder trial—he's still imprisoned amid doubts.
Relive the 2007 Perugia murder case, media storm, and overturned conviction of U.S. student Amanda Knox after years of scandal.
Sports legends come alive in these inspiring tales.
This intimate portrait of F1 icon Ayrton Senna covers his three titles and tragic 1994 death at age 34.
Relive Michael Jordan's Bulls dynasty with insights from Pippen, Rodman, Kerr, and Jackson.
From jazz to hip-hop, these celebrate musical pioneers.
John Coltrane's revolutionary saxophone legacy ends with his 1967 death from liver cancer at 40—his influence endures.
This four-season Canadian series traces hip-hop from 1970s Grandmaster Flash to 50 Cent's 2000s dominance.
Beyond documentaries, Netflix offers niche gems. After these, try our picks for interactive Netflix shows.
