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The 100+ Best Biographical Documentary Series, Ranked

The best television documentary biographies are as engaging as a scripted series, while also sharing real lives. The best biography documentary series ever shown on television tell the tales of people - from celebrities to average folks who led extraordinary lives. If you’ve been looking for the best biography documentaries to add some enjoyable education to your TV nights, this list of the best art and art history documentary series of all time will help you figure out what needs to go into your queue.

Some documentary biography series follow individuals for the full run of the show, such as The Defiant Ones , or any documentary series that follows the life of historical figures such as Churchill or Napoleon. Many other documentary biography series use an anthology format and tell the story of different people each episode. 30 for 30 , Behind the Music , and even E! True Hollywood Story tell peoples' stories with a mix of reenactment, file footage, and information from experts in the field.

Which shows do the best job sharing information about the lives of famous people? Vote up the best biography documentary shows and add any biographical documentary series that are missing.

Is Becoming Worth Your Time?

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100 Foot Wave

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How to Become a Tyrant

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Pretend It's a City

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Best Documentaries on YouTube

Last updated: April 20, 2024

If you love Documentaries and are looking for your next favorite, then you're in luck. We've compiled a list of the best Documentaries available to watch now on YouTube. Scroll through and find the perfect one for your family. And check back often -- we're updating regularly with new additions. See more best-of lists like this .

No titles in this list match your selected age range. Try aging up or down.

The Best Documentaries on YouTube Right Now

Check out our top documentary picks on YouTube.

YouTube has revolutionized the way viewers watch stuff, whether it's cat compilations, viral prank videos, to serious documentaries. Home to a diverse range of documentary styles and subjects, the platform has become a treasure trove of thought-provoking documentaries brought to you by independent filmmakers, aspiring directors, and established production companies. Whether you're sitting in the comfort of your home with your laptop on, or in need of a quick watch during your commute, YouTube offers a variety of documentaries that let you explore the wild, weird, and sometimes wacky corners of the world, and the people living on it.

Check out our top fifteen YouTube documentary picks.

Related : The Best Free Movies You Can Watch on YouTube Right Now

Age of Easy Money (2023)

Run Time : 1 hr 53 minutes | Director : James Jacoby

From the 2008 recession to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent rise in inflation, Age of Easy Money traces the turbulent trajectory of the American economy. Shedding light on the fragility of the financial system and the growing divide between Wall Street and Main Street, Age of Easy Money focuses on the role of the Federal Reserve, the country's central bank, and its epic economic experiment to revive the economy through an "easy money" policy.

Boeing's Fatal Flaw (2021)

Run Time : 53 minutes | Director : Tom Jennings

Boeing's Fatal Flaw is a riveting documentary that uncovers the truth behind the devastating crashes of Boeing 737 Max airplanes. The documentary focuses on two devastating crashes involving Boeing 737 Max passenger jets, one in October 2018 off the coast of Indonesia and another in Ethiopia just five months later. The crashes resulted in the tragic loss of all passengers on board. Through meticulous investigation, the documentary reveals what Boeing knew about the potential disaster and when it became aware of it. It explores the intense market pressures and failed oversight that contributed to the tragic loss of lives and a catastrophic crisis for Boeing

The Boy Band Con: The Lou Pearlman Story (2019)

Run Time : 1 hr 39 minutes | Director : Aaron Kunkel

Boy bands like The Backstreet Boys and *NYSNC wouldn't exist today if it weren't for renowned boy band impresario Lou Pearlman. But is his legacy all glitter and gold? The Boy Band Con: The Lou Pearlman Story unveils Pearlman's beginnings in Queens to his discovery of some of America's most iconic mega-bands, as well as the shocking events of his later life, including his involvement in one of the largest Ponzi schemes in American history. Featuring interviews from Lance Bass , JC Chasez , Chris Kirkpatrick (*NSYNC), AJ McLean (Backstreet Boys), Aaron Carter , and Ashley Parker Angel (OTown), the documentary sheds light on the dark side of the pop industry.

The Real Story of Paris Hilton (2020)

Run Time : 1 hr 45 minutes | Director : Alexandra Dean

Discover a side of Paris Hilton that goes beyond her glamorous persona as the original Hollywood IT girl in The Real Story of Paris Hilton . The documentary takes a deep dive into a pivotal period of her teenage years, where she faced unimaginable emotional and physical abuse during her time at Provo Canyon School in Utah. Hilton confronts the childhood trauma that has profoundly shaped her identity, and sheds light on her personal struggles with grooming and the profound emotional, verbal, and physical abuse she endured while attending a series of boarding schools for "troubled teens."

The Pope, the Environmental Crisis, and Frontline Leaders (2022)

Run Time : 1 hr 21 minute | Director : Nicolas Brown

Embark on a captivating journey of global voices uniting in The Pope, the Environmental Crisis, and Frontline Leaders . Inspired by Pope Francis ' groundbreaking encyclical letter, "Laudato Si'," which addresses the pressing environmental crisis, this film invites four individuals whose perspectives have been overlooked in global discussions to engage in an unprecedented dialogue with the Pope. Representing Senegal, the Amazon, India, and Hawai’i, these voices bring forth profound insights and innovative solutions from the marginalized, including the poor, indigenous communities, youth, and wildlife. Witness their remarkable journey to Rome, where extraordinary encounters unfold, accompanied by deeply poignant personal stories and up-to-date information on the planetary crisis and its impact on nature and humanity.

The Age of A.I. (2019)

Average Episode Run Time : 30 minutes | Executive Producer : Robert Downey Jr.

Delve into the revolutionary realm of artificial intelligence with The Age of A.I. , an eight-part documentary series hosted by Robert Downey Jr . This immersive exploration delves into the transformative power of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and neural networks, and their potential to reshape our world. Each episode takes viewers on an eye-opening journey, introducing the minds at the forefront of A.I. innovation. From scientists to innovators and dreamers, these individuals are shaping the future and addressing some of humanity's most significant challenges. Through real-life stories, viewers witness the profound impact of technology on people's lives, as A.I. races to tackle complex global issues.

I Promise (2021)

Run Time : 1 hr 41 minutes | Director : Marc Levin

I Promise offers an intimate and comprehensive look into the inaugural academic year at the revolutionary I Promise School. Led by executive producers LeBron James and Maverick Carter , the film showcases the groundbreaking model of urban public education adopted by the school in Akron, Ohio. With a focus on STEM education and Social Emotional Learning, this holistic approach is underpinned by the LeBron James Family Foundation's "We Are Family" philosophy. Through the lens of students, families, and dedicated staff, the documentary delves into the daily challenges, triumphs, and life-changing impact of the school. Witness the resilience and determination of students selected from the district's lower 25th percentile as they navigate adversity, highlighting the profound importance of this new educational paradigm.

Coachella: 20 Years In The Desert (2020)

Run Time : 1 hr 43 minutes | Director : Chris Perkel

Uncover the vibrant history of one of the world's most iconic music festivals in the enthralling documentary Coachella: 20 Years In The Desert . Spanning two decades, this film offers an unprecedented glimpse into the birth and evolution of Coachella, showcasing never-before-seen performances, exclusive backstage stories, and intimate interviews. With a treasure trove of footage, viewers are treated to iconic moments from legendary artists such as Billie Eilish , Kanye West , Daft Punk , Travis Scott , BLACKPINK , LCD Soundsystem , Rage Against The Machine , Pixies , Swedish House Mafia , Jane’s Addiction , Björk , The White Stripes , Madonna , Moby , Beck , Radiohead , and many more.

Einstein's Quantum Riddle (2019)

Run Time : 53 minutes | Director : Jamie E. Lochhead

Experience the mind-bending world of quantum entanglement in Einstein's Quantum Riddle . Inspired by Einstein's enigmatic description of entanglement as "spooky action at a distance," the documentary delves into the revolutionary potential of this phenomenon to reshape technology. With computers and cryptography on the brink of transformation, physicists are determined to prove the reality of quantum entanglement. Witness a groundbreaking journey to the Canary Islands, where a daring experiment utilizing distant quasars aims to settle the remaining doubts surrounding this perplexing phenomenon.

Arctic Sinkholes (2022)

Run Time : 53 minutes | Director : Nick Tanner

Explore the alarming environmental crisis unfolding in the Arctic. Arctic Sinkholes takes viewers to the remote corners of the Siberian tundra and Alaska, where colossal explosions and erupting lakes of inflammable gas provide a chilling glimpse into the impending danger. As the long-frozen permafrost melts, vast amounts of methane, a potent greenhouse gas, are released, posing a significant threat to the climate. Find out the implications of these dramatic occurrences and the dangers they pose for the future of the Earth's climate.

Looking for Life on Mars (2021)

Run Time : 54 minutes | Director : Terri Randall

Embark on an awe-inspiring adventure with NASA as they undertake their most ambitious mission to date, Mars 2020. Looking for Life on Mars takes viewers on the search for clues about the existence of ancient life on the Red Planet. Witness the heart-pounding moment as the spacecraft hurtles through the Martian atmosphere at a staggering 12,000 miles per hour, aiming to safely deliver the Perseverance Rover to the enigmatic Jezero Crater—an ancient river delta that holds the potential for hosting past life forms. The documentary is a testament to the human pursuit of answers in the cosmos.

Decoding da Vinci (2019)

Run Time : 53 minutes | Director : Doug Hamilton

Uncover the captivating world of Leonardo da Vinci's artistic brilliance and scientific genius in Decoding da Vinci . In collaboration with biographer Walter Isaacson , the documentary delves into the enigmatic life and extraordinary mind of Leonardo da Vinci on the 500th anniversary of his passing. Witness the remarkable fusion of his scientific curiosity and artistic prowess as the documentary investigates how these pursuits culminated in the creation of the Mona Lisa and uncovers the mystery behind her enigmatic smile.

Weinstein (2018)

Run Time : 53 minutes | Director : Jane McMullen, Leo Telling

Delve into the gripping exposé of one of the most jarring scandals in Hollywood history. Weinstein takes viewers on an investigative journey into the shocking allegations of sexual harassment and abuse leveled against Harvey Weinstein , the once-powerful mogul who ruled the entertainment industry. Drawing upon exclusive insider testimonies, the film unravels the intricate downfall of Weinstein, examining the complicity of Hollywood itself and shedding light on the industry's knowledge of his reprehensible actions.

Inside the Wellness Festival for Millionaires (2002)

Run Time : 22 minutes | Director : Adrian Choa

Inside the Wellness Festival for Millionaires follows Sydney Lima as she receives a golden ticket to the invitation-only A-Fest, an annual super-elite festival curated by MindValley. Led by visionary entrepreneur Vishen Lakhiani , A-Fest promises to revolutionize lives through distilled, Silicon Valley-inspired alt-wellness practices that claim to promise a future of spiritual and business success. Part elite entrepreneurship and part self-transformation, A-Fest is the go-to event for fellow millionaires.

RELATED : 13 Great Old Hollywood Movies to Watch for Free on Youtube

Talking to Dead People in Florida (2022)

Run Time : 23 minutes | Director : Gabriela Dematteis

Cassadaga is more than just your average small town in Florida. Nestled within its streets are not your typical neighbors, but a fascinating array of psychics, clairvoyants, and past-life shamans. Drawn to its reputed natural energy vortex, Cassadaga has flourished as a haven for those seeking a spiritual connection, and while crystal balls and tarot cards may come to mind when it comes to the mystic community, Talking to Dead People in Florida shows that many of the psychics here rely on other unorthodox methods.

The Best Free Documentaries You Can Watch On YouTube Right Now

Documentaries are the bee's knees. Without them, how would we know what goes on outside? By going outside? What are we, lumberjacks? And here's the really wild part: It wasn't all that long ago — fifteen years, maybe? — that you had to go to a video store to rent these things. People had to go outside to find movies about what was happening outside. Talk about redundant. And they charged you for the privilege, too! Blockbuster , man. She was a harsh mistress.

Luckily for all of us, the world has moved forward, and films of all stripes can now be streamed directly to the device of your choice. Even more luckily, YouTube now features a cornucopia of feature films from around the world, with many of them available to watch for free. We've combed through their offerings and put together a list of some of the best documentaries on the menu. From chronicles of artistic endeavors to the shady underside of American politics, here's what we came up with.

With Great Power: The Stan Lee Story

At this point, Marvel Comics' contributions to the cultural landscape are hard to overstate. The MCU has become the closest thing that Disney will ever have to an actual machine that prints money, taking the title of "most profitable franchise" by a wide margin. The iconography is omnipresent, and the catchphrases are a shared language. "Wakanda Forever." "I am Iron Man." "With great power comes great responsibility."

And all of that, in part anyway, is thanks to Stan Lee , the smoky celebrity uncle of every nerd's dreams. Fans of the face of Marvel will already be familiar with the folkloric stories that he tells during "With Great Power: The Stan Lee Story," but they've also watched a dozen different takes on Spider-Man's origin story by now. Classics are classics for a reason.

For a good idea of the range of Lee's legacy, "With Great Power" features George W. Bush, Kevin Feige, Patrick Stewart, and Nicolas Cage in the first minute alone. By the end of the second minute, you'll have seen clips of interviews with Kevin Smith, Larry King, James Franco, Jon Favreau, Ringo Starr, and Paris Hilton. Excelsior, sir.

Dan Harmon, probably best known as the co-creator of "Rick and Morty," pulled off a difficult maneuver after he was fired from " Community " after Season 3, crossing the cultural blood/brain barrier from behind-the-scenes entity to recognizable celebrity. The secret seems to stem from his smartest-guy-in-the-frat charisma, his self-deprecating humor, and the fact that he built up a legion of swarming, devoted fans through his podcast, "Harmontown."

In 2014, a documentary of the same name was produced, following Harmon and company across the country as they performed live episodes of "Harmontown" at sold-out bars, clubs, and comic book shops.

The result is a bleak but heartwarming look at the life of a troubled, but beloved creator — one that follows Harmon's own "Story 101" format for making relatable, imperfect characters suspiciously closely. If you triangulate between quotes like "I'm either John Belushi or I'm unprofessional" and "I'm the Oprah of ineffectual white people," maybe you'll get something close to an accurate read on the guy.

Citizenfour

In 2015, the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature went to "Citizenfour." It's kind of hard to argue with the decision.

"Citizenfour" was the third of three films in Laura Poitras' 9/11 trilogy, following her exploration of the U.S. occupation of Iraq in 2006's "My Country, My Country" and her close-up look at the lives of people orbiting Osama bin Laden in 2010's "The Oath." Here, she turns the camera toward a shadowy figure calling himself Citizenfour, who claims to have information on U.S. government programs dedicated to the illegal surveillance of Americans.

The result is a real-life international spy thriller with wide-ranging consequences. The documentary's eponymous contributor turns out to be Edward Snowden , and the filmmakers wind up capturing a significant amount of his struggle following the massive intelligence leak that he spearheaded, including the cancellation of his passport and attempts to extradite him back to the United States. The drama keeps unfolding the more you learn about it, too — The New York Times ran an extensive piece about the creation of the film that reads like an espionage novel.

My Scientology Movie

Maybe it's schadenfreude, maybe it's the human inclination toward feeling courageous by proxy, but some of the most striking documentaries are the ones that make you feel like you're watching someone chuck rocks at a wasp nest for an hour and a half. With that in mind, "My Scientology Movie" is a 99-minute recreation of the third act of "My Girl."

The way the filmmakers tell it, they had wanted to explore the inner workings of the Church of Scientology for a while, but the organization's renowned ability to circle its wagons made an inside look impossible to obtain. The solution: following in the footsteps of "The Act of Killing," they brought former members of the church in on the project and encouraged them to carry out dramatic reenactments of their experiences. The result is a story that tells itself. The documentary's featured subject, journalist Louis Theroux, finds himself at odds with not just ex-Scientologists, but with current members purportedly sent by the church to stop him from documenting the exact behaviors that they exhibit in front of the camera.

I Am Not Your Negro

"I Am Not Your Negro," one of the only movies on Metacritic to receive a near-perfect rating , takes its inspiration from an unfinished, 30-page collection of notes by James Baldwin titled "Remember This House." The film points out that the notes were originally conceived as a way to "tell his story of America through the lives of three of his murdered friends: Medgar Evers, Martin Luther King Jr, and Malcolm X."

Going beyond the documentary's astonishing reconsideration of these three killings, one of its most astonishing qualities is its ability to frame 60-year-old struggles as a mirror image of the issues of the present. Footage from the mid-20th century is juxtaposed against contemporary photographs of the Black Lives Matter movement in the film's opening sequence, making it difficult to stop thinking about the parallels as the story continues and after the credits roll. The result is an Academy Award-nominated, BAFTA award-winning motion picture that's almost impossible to get out of your head.

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The Best Biographical Documentaries Ever Made — IndieWire Critics Survey

David ehrlich.

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Every week, IndieWire asks a select handful of film critics two questions and publishes the results on Monday. (The answer to the second, “What is the best film in theaters right now?”, can be found at the end of this post).

This past weekend saw the release of “Ryuichi Sakamoto: Coda,” the latest in a recent string of impressively strong and commercially successful biographical documentaries (other recent standouts include “RBG” and “Won’t You Be my Neighbor?”). 

This week’s question: What is the best biographical documentary ever made?

Siddhant Adlakha (@SidizenKane), Freelance for The Village Voice, /Film

The best and arguably most important documentaries ever made are complimentary pieces by Joshua Oppenheimer, “The Act of Killing” (2013) and “The Look of Silence (2015). They’re set against the backdrop of Indonesia’s 1965-66 genocide, believed to be sponsored by the C.I.A., but they’re each rooted in the lives of singular subjects and their diametrically opposed journeys.

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The cleansing, of an estimated three million ethnic Chinese, changed the face of the nation in terrifying ways, created a longstanding socio-political status quo that deifies its perpetrators while continuing to villainize its victims to this day. The first film, “The Act of Killing,” follows mass murderer Anwar Congo over the course of seven years, exploring the personal cognitive dissonance that permeates the culture around him. Congo, an avowed American film fan, re-enacts each of his many killings in stylized manner akin to the genre films he grew up on. Though as he reflects on his actions through a lens of cinema, his bizarre cinematic journey results in the peeling back of the layers of his humanity until he’s forced, as if by something within, to face up to what he’s done.

Its sequel, “The Look of Silence,” tells the story of traveling optometrist Adi Rukun, Oppenheimer’s guide during the production of the first film. Adi sits across from the various people responsible for the murder of his brother in ’65-’66, from local prison guards to people at the highest levels of government in an attempt to find closure. All it would take is those responsible for the massacre owning up to their deeds fifty years after the fact, but the collective dissonance and cultural justifications for the genocide prevent Adi, his blind father (who keeps re-living the horrors of the past) and his culture at large from healing.

Both films feel like impossible feats of filmmaking; watching them feels like being dangerously privy to the darkest parts of the human soul. They are, however, explorations of character, time and place that feel necessary for any person or culture trying to reckon with their past.

Christopher Campbell (@thefilmcynic), Nonfics, Film School Rejects, Thrillist

The best biographical documentaries that mostly look back on a life tend to be based on books. The top three are: “The Kid Stays in the Picture,” about Hollywood mogul Robert Evans; “Life Itself,” about film critic Roger Ebert, and “Man on Wire,” about high-wire legend Philippe Petit. Each of those also benefit from their subjects being alive at the time of filming (or most of the filming) to add an extra level or chapter to the story — even Evans manages to give his story a little extra simply by narrating his own life. I also highly recommend “The Internet’s Own Boy,” which is impressive for how quickly it was made following subject Aaron Swartz’s death.

But the greatest biographical documentaries for me are the two films about Aileen Wuornos made by Nick Broomfield. The first one, “Aileen Wuornos: The Selling of a Serial Killer,” is more about her life leading up to the making of the film, told through interviews as well as her murder trial. The second doc, “Aileen: Life and Death of a Serial Killer,” revisits Wuornos as she’s about to be executed. Both documentaries also, as most of Broomfield’s do, contain an autobiographical element on the part of the filmmaker. And between the two of them, we see Broomfield as a more complex character than ever before, particularly as he’s dealing with the fate of Wuornos and the documentarian/subject relationship. It’s a fascinating twofer in that way, and emotionally difficult to come to terms with as a viewer.

Max Weiss (@maxthegirl), Baltimore Magazine

Courtney Howard (@Lulamaybelle), Freelance for FreshFiction, SassyMamaInLA

Carl Broughton II(@Carlislegendary), Editor-in-chief for thefilmera.com

The documentary will always be relevant not because it is about a music artist with immense talent dying young, but because of the underlying problems that led to her death. The toxic relationship with her boyfriend, the drugs, and the mental problems she suffered due to the prior mentioned subjects are things we are still tackling as a society. Amy Winehouse will always be a prime example of what happens when we make a spectacle and joke of serious problems. “Amy” is a little longer than 2 hours, but by the time it is over you not only feel you got her full story, but come out appreciating what she did for the music world. Overall Amy is the perfect documentary to showcase that people accept the love they think they deserve.

Deborah Krieger (@debonthearts) BUST Magazine, Paste Magazine

Pedro Strazza (@pedrosazevedo), B9

What it stands from the documentary for me, though, is the way it reveals the truth (or at least the version that it is trying to build) about the real Cássia, fighting some generalizations and prejudices that were made about the singer even on the wake of her death. Killed by a sudden heart attack that latter was attributed to an excess of work load (she did one hundred shows in seven months, according to her manager), Eller’s decease at the time was falsely linked to drugs by some news magazines, which contributed to a legal dispute about the fate of her son, Francisco – it was the musician’s wish that his caring would be assumed by her partner, Maria Eugênia, if anything happened, but the parents of the biological father tried to intervene. This way, it’s fascinating to me how “Cássia” in the end poses itself as some sort of justice corrector of mistakes made in the past, a feeling that in my judgment is present on the best productions of the genre.

Luke Hicks (@lou_kicks), Film School Rejects, Birth.Movies.Death., Chicago Reader

Hoai-Tran Bui (@htranbui), /Film

For the 40 years that they had been married, artist Noriko Shinohara lived in the shadow of her husband Ushio Shinohara, a gifted artist whose use of boxing gloves in his art had him declared one of the most promising artists of the ’70s New York art scene. But as the elderly couple struggles to make their rent while Ushio bemoans his feverish glory days, Noriko begins to tire of always supporting the genius. She starts telling her story through her alter ego “Cutie,” a talented and abused young artist whose life plays out in surreal illustrations which are sprinkled throughout Zachary Heinzerling’s documentary. “Cutie and the Boxer” is a touching and slightly tragic portrait of a pair of artists whose love has been defined and hindered by art. It’s a beautiful little example of how behind every “brilliant artist,” there’s a just as brilliant woman.

Kristen Lopez (@Journeys_Film), Culturess, The Young Folks

Director Kurt Kuenne started out making a documentary about his best friend, Andrew Bagby and his murder. What Kuenne ended up doing was memorializing his best friend and Bagby’s young son who never knew his father. There’s a lot of sadness that runs throughout the film that, at times, makes you hurt. You hurt at what could have been, at what will never be known. In the end, all that’s left is what remains on-screen, family and friends telling the audience (and Zachary himself) about the man Andrew Bagby was. It’s a story that will make you cry because the guy sounded so average, he could have been anyone and it’s a shame that the circle of death that swirled around him is what made him famous. But, at the same time, if these tragic events had never happened, audiences would never know his name. It’s a movie that leaves you with questions not just about the nature of life and death, parentage and paternity, but how film narrative creates immortality.

Sean Mulvihill (@NotSPMulvihill), FanboyNation.com

Completely removed from any hopes of working within the modern studio system and knowing that his legacy is secure thanks to a critical reevaluation, the Brian De Palma shown in “De Palma” is a filmmaker with plenty of entertaining stories and no need to play nice. The result is a film that takes into the creative process of a great filmmaker, rife with amusing anecdotes about his famous collaborators and moments of earnest reflection about his critical and commercial flops.

Of course, almost all biographical documentaries have an element of hagiography to them. These are the type of movies that would exist without having some kind of myth to build upon, and “De Palma” only bucks this trend because Paltrow and Baumbach allow Brian De Palma to build his own myth in his own words without inserting their own commentary on their subject’s claims. When compared to the similar and saccharine portrait of a filmmaking legend, “Spielberg,” “De Palma” stands out so much because it takes on the unvarnished attitude of its subject, becoming a perfect reflection and distillation of his body of work. It’s that style that pulls De Palma devotees, like myself, further and further into the film. He’s talented. He’s prickly. He’s egotistical. He’s one of cinema’s greatest. Holy mackerel!

Ethan Warren (@ethanrawarren), Bright Wall/Dark Room

Emily Sears (@emily_dawn), Birth.Movies.Death., Fandor

Joel Mayward (@joelmayward), Cinemayward.com, Freelance

The film’s title reminds us that we often leave an art gallery or museum through their gift shop with an expectation to buy a trinket to remind us of our experience. The art is not simply there to be enjoyed and appreciated; it is now a commodity to be purchased and consumed. Whether we like it or not, our consumer culture defines value monetarily. This is nothing new; for hundreds of years and across divergent cultures, artists have needed wealthy patrons to fund projects. What is new is how technology, social media, marketing, and the American economic system have all intensified this process. Bizarre, subversive, and often hilarious, “Exit Through the Gift Shop” questions and critiques celebrity culture, capitalism, and Western culture itself in the best way: by making interesting art and inviting us to consider it.

Christopher Llewellyn Reed (@chrisreedfilm), Hammer to Nail/Film Festival Today

In that spirit, I’d like to go back over 20 years and cast my ultimate vote for Ruth Ozeki Lounsbury’s 1996 “Halving the Bones,” which similarly challenges the conventions of documentary filmmaking. In the movie, Lounsbury traces her family history on the maternal side, following the titular bones (those of her grandmother) on their journey from Japan to America, a trip that allows her to revisit the immigrant saga of her mother, as well as her own life as a biracial woman. Mixing real archival footage with reenactments – all blended together in one exciting whole – Lounsbury creates an evocative and poignant tribute to her foremothers, and to her own indomitable will as cineaste and historian.

Daniel Joyaux (@thirdmanmovies), Freelance for Vanity Fair, The Verge, MovieMaker Magazine, and The Independent

“Jane” gets all of this in a way that overwhelms me. The restored and color-corrected footage (shot by Hugo Van Lawick in the ’60s and ’70s) is simply gorgeous, and the Philip Glass score that emotes it is powerful. There’s a final, climactic montage where the score reaches operatic heights, and those flickering images moved me to watery eyes both times I saw the film. One of my critic friends didn’t like “Jane” because he said it devolved into hagiography and never mentioned the valid criticisms of her work. Maybe he’s right, I don’t know. I’ll embarrassingly admit I knew very little about Goodall before seeing the film. But I also think the relative success or failure of “Jane” as a perfect portrayal of its subject misses the point. Regardless of how well it embodies great journalism, it absolutely embodies great cinema.

Luiz Gustavo (@luizgvt), Cronico de Cinema

But he knows that that’s the path to make João Bérnard in nothing but an echo, a shadow of itself, in the film. To know someone like him is, actually, to know what touched him deeply. That’s why, as we learn about his life and work, we’re also walking through the movies that he loved the most: Lubitsch’s “The Shop Around the Corner”, Mankiewicz’s “The Ghost and Mrs. Muir” and, of course, Ray’s “Johnny Guitar”. It is very hard not to fall in love with these movies, like the title foreshadows. The final line, a frase used by João Bénard da Cost when writing about Kiarostami’s “Taste of Cherry”, encapsulates the whole spirit of this very delicate film: “Fundamental é a vida. A vida continua sempre. É de vida que fala este filme de morte” (“Life is fundamental. Life goes on forever. It is about life that this movie of death speaks of”). After watching this documentary, those words will haunt you forever.

Carlos Aguilar (@Carlos_Film), Freelance

Miyazaki’s grumpy, humorous, and at times bleak observations about the world are interspersed with archival footage from his early days in animation. “Kingdom” is as much a documentary about the studio itself, as it is about the man at the center of it and those who, through their complementing talents, have been part of his remarkable creative life. With Takhata’s recent passing, the final minutes of the film now serve as a heartwarming eulogy to his friendship with Miyazaki and his own breathtaking oeuvre.

THIS ARTICLE CONTINUES ON THE NEXT PAGE.

Continue Reading: The Best Biographical Documentaries Ever Made — IndieWire Critics Survey Next »

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The 21 Best Documentaries on YouTube That You Can Watch Right Now

Documentary lovers unite! Whether you are a long-time lover of documentaries or you're new to the genre, you may be on the hunt for some new docs to watch as you've probably watched every one currently available on every streaming service . You mustn't worry, however, as we have you covered with a roundup of the best documentaries on YouTube that you can watch right now. These docs are captivating, great conversation starters for when people ask you what you have been watching lately, and best of all — free! You don't have to be subscribed to any platforms, nor do you pay to rent/buy these films which always a good thing.

We've tried to include something in here for everybody be it crime documentaries for those that love a good crime mystery, fashion documentaries for those super into style, history docs for that can't get enough of history, and more. So grab your popcorn, candy, and any other movie snacks you might enjoy because we have a feeling you're going to be here a while.

RELATED: The 20 Best 'Black Mirror' Episodes, Ranked

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The 17 Best Celebrity Documentaries Will Give You An Inside Look Into Stars' Lives

Your movie night plans are all sorted now.

These days, whether you subscribe to Netflix , Hulu , Amazon Prime, or HBO Max—or still have your ex boo’s password saved (just me?)—there are tons of celebrity documentaries for you to get your voyeuristic fix. (No shade, you’re not the only fan hungry for an intimate look at your fave star's usually-hidden pains and pleasures.) These docs aren't just about rappers and pop stars, though there are plenty of those (lookin' at you, Biggie and T-Swift). They also feature the life stories of comedian Tig Notaro, ballerina Misty Copeland, and mother-daughter acting duo Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher, too.

So, grab a tub of popcorn and your tissues because these docs will have you crying tears of sadness, joy, and nostalgia by pulling at your heartstrings and revealing the unknown. Read on for the 17 best celebrity documentaries you can watch right now with the click of a button.

One Direction: This Is Us (2013)

Long before Harry graced the cover of Vogue , Zayn, Liam, and Louis had kids, and Niall went solo, these men were in a boyband that made middle schoolers scream: One Direction. While released at the height of the British band's fandom in 2013, when watched today, this documentary gives fans a chance to reminisce about 1D's heyday before their split. And hey, "Midnight Memories" is still a bop.

Singer Amy Winehouse was known for her throaty, sultry sound, so it should come as no surprise that this masterpiece is as moody as it is moving. The British documentary fuses old interviews with clips of the singer, features fan reactions to her death, and details her life and relationship with music, sex, self-harm, and drugs—showcasing both her talent and her struggles. (Fair warning: Self-harm and substance abuse make big appearances in this doc.)

A Ballerina’s Tale (2015)

You don’t have to be a former dancer nor current ballerina to enjoy this documentary on the greatest ballerina of all time: Misty Copeland. Through A Ballerina’s Tale , an IFC Film, Copeland proves that what people think ballerinas have to be (white, petite, rich, young) is racist, classist hogwash. Both inspirational and aspirational, this doc is for anyone looking for an ~against all odds~ heroine story.

watch now on amazon prime

Calling all former class-clowns, laugh-lovers, and Tig Notaro fans, this Netflix documentary is for you. Named after the dry-as-bread comedian, Tig follows the brilliant comedian as she recovers from a quadruple whammy: A bacterial infection, cancer diagnosis, family death, and breakup. Equal parts morbid and moving, Tig offers the dry flair you’ve learned to expect from Tig herself along with close-ups of the comic in her personal life.

watch now on netflix

Bright Lights (2016)

Did you know that Singin' In The Rain icon Debbie Reynolds and Star Wars actress Carrie Fisher were related? Yep! The mother-daughter duo lived next door to each other until late in their lives, teasing, bickering, and helping each other until they both passed unexpectedly, just days apart. Bright Lights offers a sneak peak into the life of and bond between these showbiz babes.

Watch now on HBO Max

Gaga: Five Foot Two (2017)

Lady Gaga is more than just a powerhouse singer decked in a meat-dress—she’s a human with wants, anxiety, imposter syndrome, fibromyalgia, and talent. In this up-close-and-personal Netflix documentary, the A Star Is Born actress and real-life pop star gets raw about the way society’s view on femininity, sexuality, success, access, and ability have caused her pain. It also explores how she’s redefined for herself what it means to be successful, in order to emerge from that pain more-self assured.

watch now on Netflix

Homecoming: A Film by Beyoncé (2018)

Through a combination of backstage chit-chat, honest AF dialogue from Beyoncé herself, and rehearsal footage, Homecoming chronicles what went into Beyoncé's iconic 2018 Coachella performance— the first time a Black woman headlined the music festival.

A Grammy-nominated music film, Homecoming pays homage to and celebrates all the Black creatives and women that came before Queen Bey. Packed with performance, pride, and power, this Netflix documentary affirms what you already knew intuitively: For Beyoncé, stage is home.

Watch now on netflix

Travis Scott: Look Mom I Can Fly (2019)

Ready for a documentary that’ll give you chills on chills on chills? Look no further than this intimate look at Travis Scott’s life, which weaves fan testimonials with home video footage and concert clips to depict Scott’s life. ( KUWTK fans, fear not: There are plenty of moments between Scott, Kylie Jenner, and baby Stormi shown in this Netflix documentary.)

Chasing Happiness (2019)

While you won’t finish this film with a definitive answer around why the brotherly trio split, you will leave feeling nostalgic for the Disney Channel Jonas-mania days.

Featuring home video clips from as early as Nick’s birth, as well as interview footage asking the pop stars if they’ll ever split (they say no, LOL), plus concert and television clips, Chasing Happiness captures the rise, then fall, then reunion of the Jonas Brothers. Now available on Amazon Prime, this documentary is a must-watch for anyone that ever plastered a Jonas Brothers Tiger Beat poster on their bedroom wall.

Watch now on amazon prime

This Is Paris (2020)

Paris Hilton is known as the OG influencer, but that doesn’t mean she’s immune to having her image warped, then guzzled by gossip columnists and bored housemoms alike—in fact, just the opposite.

In This Is Paris , the hotel heiress takes back the mic to give viewers a real, unfiltered look at her not-so-happy life, including her time at a program in Utah where she was abused. What starts as a story about just another rich blonde girl, evolves into something much more nuanced. Ultimately, the film challenges the societal expectations put on stars like Paris.

Watch now on YouTube

Shawn Mendes: In Wonder (2020)

In Wonder features monologues from the "Señorita" artist and behind-the-scene clips featuring him and girlfriend Camila Cabello . It's also packed with concert shots and earthy panoramas shot while Shawn is on his world tour. He wonders what it means to be a star, what his future in music holds, and how it influences his relationships.

watch no on netflix

Ariana Grande: Excuse Me, I Love You (2020)

If scrolling through this list has you wondering whether a happy celebrity documentary is an oxymoron, your next watch should be Ariana Grande: Excuse Me, I Love You . Sure, there’s an emotional backstage moment or three, but the bulk of this high-pony pop star's Netflix documentary is made up of upbeat behind-the-scenes moments and concert footage from her 2019 Sweetener world tour. Even those who aren’t die-hard fans will be saying, "Excuse me, I love you too" by the end.

Miss Americana (2020)

As if a documentary by this name could be about anyone other than the world’s (minus Kanye West’s) favorite girl next door: Taylor Swift . In this Netflix documentary, the singer-songwriter takes off the "good girl muzzle" and gets real about the role politics play in her music. T-Swift wants to convince her fans that she’s not just an artist; she’s an activist, too.

Demi Lovato: Dancing With The Devil (2021)

Whether you’ve been a Demi fan since their Barney and Friends days, or were late to the game only stanning them with the release of their Tell Me You Love Me 2017 album, you’ll be transfixed by this four-part documentary series.

The documentary follows Demi from 2018-2020, shedding insight on their eating disorder , drug use , mental health diagnoses and misdiagnoses, sexuality , and the traumas that led up to their near-fatal overdose in July of 2018. But ultimately, the series ends on a hopeful note with the finale, titled "rebirthing," suggesting the pop star has finally found their footing.

Biggie: I Got A Story to Tell (2021)

The rapper of many names—Biggie Smalls, Notorious B.I.G, and sometimes simply, Biggie—has been memorialized documentary-style. By interweaving a combination of concert footage, behind-the-scenes family videos, and interviews, this Netflix documentary explores how the talented star rose from the streets to the stage. Consider this a must-watch for anyone asking themselves whether raw talent alone is enough? Spoiler: Yes it is.

Billie Eilish: The World’s A Little Blurry (2021)

The World’s A Little Blurry offers an intimate look at singer-songwriter Billie Eilish. Footage spans the artist's life from before she could walk to getting her license to the release of When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go? Thanks to this documentary, viewers get a deeply intimate look at how lonely it is to be a girl growing up in a cut-throat industry and the importance of community and family.

Watch now on Apple TV+

Framing Britney Spears (2021)

ICYMI: Britney was involuntarily committed to a psychiatric ward in 2008 after what's been deemed her infamous meltdown (you know, when she shaved her head?), shocking paparazzi and the public in the process. Soon after, Britney was put in a conservatorship under her father, Jamie Spears, which she is currently fighting in court.

Framing Britney Spears , produced by FX and Hulu and investigated by The New York Times , explores the misogyny, cruelty, and ableism that led to the 39-year-old star being bound by this legal conservatorship, which many now believe should never have been implemented in the first place.

Watch now on hulu

Gabrielle Kassel (she/her) is a sex and wellness journalist who writes at the intersection of queerness, sexual health, and pleasure. In addition to being in Cosmopolitan , her work can also be found in publications such as Shape, Well + Good, Women’s Health , Health, Self, Men’s Health , Greatist, and more! In her free time, Gabrielle can be found reviewing one of the nearly 1,000 pleasure products she's tested, reading smut, or recording episodes of the podcast she cohosts called Bad In Bed . Follow her on Instagram @GabrielleKassel .

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30 Of The Best YouTube Documentaries You Can Watch Now!

last updated on July 1, 2022

What do you do when you have come close to smashing through the entire library of documentaries on Netflix? Head over to YouTube of course!

Just like Netflix, YouTube is great at providing content that sends you down that content rabbit hole. So here are 30 of the best YouTube documentaries that you can watch for free in 2022!

30 Of The Best FREE YouTube Documentaries You Can Watch Now!

1. the king of kong: a fistful of quarters.

This story follows Steve Wiebe in his journey to take the high score record for the 1981 arcade game  Donkey Kong . It is a fascinating story of competitive arcade games and humanity.

It was directed by Seth Gordon, and premiered at Sundance Music Festival

2. Inside North Korea

This story takes us into one of the most talked about nations in the news today. The hermit nation with a violent capability remains dark to the outside. It is dangerous to film anything unauthorized in North Korea, so this documentary definitely belongs on my list of the top 30 best YouTube documentaries.

3. Free To Play

Free To Play is an American documentary produced by video game company Valve. It was created in 2014 and is based on the video game Dota 2. The film was initially intended for a gaming audience, but it soon grabbed the attention of those outside the virtual world. The plot follows  three players as they go to Germany to compete in a tournament.

The plot is especially unique because it focuses on how the game has affected their real lives. The documentary has a runtime of around 75 minutes and stars Benedict Lim, Danil Ishutin, and Clinton Loomis.

This is definitely one of the best YouTube documentaries out there because of it’s modern appeal.

  4. Food Fight: How Corporations Ruined Food

This documentary examines subsidies and profit motives and their effect on our food choices.

Food Fight reveals how our food has changed for the worst, particularly in the 20th century, at the hands of big corporations. The documentary also describes the counter-movement that soon emerged  in California during the 60s and 70s to protest these issues and the corporate monopoly.

5. Morgan Freeman: Inside the Whitehouse

Who wouldn’t love hearing Morgan Freeman talking about anything?

Morgan Freeman: Inside the Whitehouse was produced by National Geographic in 1996 in collaboration with the White House. Its goal was to show the White House, a place with a notoriously negative reputation, in a different light. The documentary even features stories and photographs that have never been mentioned before. From patriots to history buffs, the film has it all! If you’re interested in historic documentaries, you should definitely head over to YouTube to watch this documentary now!

6. Filming Wildlife: Behind the Scenes

Meet the photographers and people involved in capturing those stunning wildlife views. A 10 year study of Polar Bears, diving into caves to find bats, or a trek across wildest Africa, these behind the scenes insights are both thrilling and informative.

7. The Great Jungle War

This is about a World War I battle in Colonial Africa which few people know about.

8. This Is Paris: The Real Story of Paris Hilton

This documentary was released in mid September 2020 and quickly was a favorite from her loyal supporters and new fans. Whether you like her or don’t like her, her story is so much more disturbing and interesting than you think. If you haven’t seen it yet, I’d highly recommend! Definitely one of the best YouTube documentaries of 2020.

9. Life In A Day

This documentary is a true masterpiece. It basically recounts one day in time but tells it from a new media perspective. It includes hundreds of different types of stories and people.

The documentary instantly became famous at its first screening in 2011. People from all around the world sent in videos of all different events, all of which was combined to create a ninety-minute work of art. The purpose of the documentary was to serve as a time capsule and help future generations understand what life was like before them. Life In A Day is worth watching simply for its candidness!

10. Wisconsin Death Trip 1999

This doc tells a strange and sad story about mental illness, abuse, and extreme violence. Based on the book about these events, you’ll come away with a new appreciation for the anguished among us. Or you’ll be totally creeped out.

Wisconsin Death Trip 1999 is an American black and white documentary directed by James Marsh. The incredible drama, lasting one hour and sixteen minutes, is based on the book written by Michael Lesy in 1973. Its first screening took place in Denmark in March 2000. The documentary is narrated by Ian Holm and combines photos taken by Charles Van Schaick of incidents from Wisconsin in the 19th century. If you want to expand your horizons and learn something new, this documentary will surely enlighten you.

11. The Curious Life And Death Of Lizzie Borden

This is a truly disturbing story. Lizzie took an axe  gave her mother forty whacks. When she saw what she had done, gave her father forty one. What really happened? Can we ever know the complete story? This documentary answers some questions and raises others.

12. Shale Cowboys: Fracking Under Trump

A good look into fracking and what it does to the environment and economy.

Although this documentary only lasts for forty-seven minutes, it conveys a truly important message. Due to recent controversies surrounding a fairly new process known as fracking, disapproval spiked even more under the Trump administration. Watch this documentary if you want to learn about something truly significant and worth your time!

13. Mediums: We See Dead People

This doc takes you on a journey through the eyes of mediums and how the perceive death.

14. Haunted House: An Original Documentary

This haunting paranormal documentary follows three people investigating an abandoned house overnight.

15. The Bible’s Buried Secrets

Walk in the same land as the Prophets and Kings did, gaze upon sites of momentous battles and powerful civilizations. One extremely important aspect is the origins of monotheism, a basic tenet of three of the world’s major religions practiced by nearly 3/4s of the population of the modern world.

16. The Raid: Area 51 

This is a story about the September 2019 events that lead to mass skepticism about Area 51. Millions of people signed up to see what’s really going on.

What exactly is the mystery behind this location? Are there aliens? Are their UFO’s or even more sinister things that the government is keeping from us? You’ll have to find out…

17. Sex In the Civil War

This is part of the History Channel series History Undercover and uncovers many facts about things we ordinary people would never waste a passing thought on.

18. The Boy Whose Skin Fell Off

This documentary brings us an interesting story that is bit odd and scary, medically speaking, but very moving.

19. Australia, The Great White Shark

This documentary follows a series of dives by explorers searching for the awesome predator shark as it hunts for its favorite food, sea lions. Along the way, we are dazzled by a stunning variety of underwater scenes.

20.   The Essex Boys: The Whole Truth

If you are into crime and mystery documentaries, this deeply disturbing story will be perfect for you. This doc takes you through 3 puzzling murders.

21. The Golden Age of Pirates

Many pirates were ruthless criminals that preyed on ships in port and even sometimes on the ports themselves. That’s why so many islands had cannon armed forts with the guns pointing out to sea. This documentary is a great walk through history and tells you about the fascinating origins of pirates.

22. Inner City Sailing

This is a story of a teacher training 10 inner city youths all about sailing and entered them in a competition.

23. The History of Toys and Games

This documentary identifies the need for toys for people of various ages from various ages of human history. Marbles, models, dolls, darts… Some toys from thousands of years ago would entertain kids today.

24. My Mother the Monster

This is truly a disturbing story that takes you through many mysterious hoops. Be careful, it’s a super intense film!

25. Ansel Adams: A Documentary Film

This is the story of Ansel Adams. We travel to Hernandez, Yosemite, the Sierra Nevadas, and in studio to examine a perfectionist in action. Adams perfected the Zone System, a method of previsualizing and controlling the entire photographic process which is still followed in this digital age by artist photographers today.

This documentary explains a little bit of his complicated and fascinating life of Prince. Eccentric, talented, and troubled, the musical genius often is often revered as a musical pioneer.

27. U.S. Navy Seal vs Somali Pirates

The state of affairs on the seas surrounding certain areas is troubling. Extreme violence and brutality is the norm for these ocean going criminals and they are met with the full force of modern military. A sobering look at a serious modern day problem.

28. Putin’s Revenge Part 1

PBS Frontline brings us a 2017 documentary series about Vladimir Putin that details inside information about this enigmatic ruler of one of the most powerful nations on Earth.

Putin’s Revenge Part 2 continues the series.

29. The Real Jigsaw Murderer

Jigsaw is one of the most recognizable and scary figures in modern horror media. This twisted tale takes you through real life accounts of this Saw-esque murderer.

30. Shark Attacks of 1916

Whenever I think of the Jersey Shore, my mind’s thoughts automatically gravitate towards concerns of SHARK ATTACKS! In 1916 in the area of Matawan and Beach Haven, New Jersey a series of events occurred which inspired Steven Spielberg’s 1975 blockbuster movie, Jaws.

Two weeks, four deaths, and the beginning of America’s fear of sharks.

YouTube has provided us with what seems like BILLIONS of hours of content. And the best part is that it is (mostly) free. You can learn so much on the platform, but there are also stories that give you pure entertainment. You can always choose to go with Netflix or Hulu   but YouTube is super easy and fast.

If you are mainly into crime/murder/mystery documentaries, (which I think we all are), I recommend checking out the YouTube channel Real Crime .

Hopefully this list has provided with a couple good options so you can enjoy one of the best YouTube documentaries! If there are any other documentaries that you think belong in this list, leave a comment below!

If you are thinking about creating your own YouTube videos, you can check out some of our helpful resources below.

• Best Ring Lights For Your Videos
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• How To Get More Subscribers
• Best Video Editing Software For YouTubers
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Tina Turner's Life Explored In New Documentary

Eric Deggans

Tina Turner and her children, photographed in 1967. Courtesy of HBO hide caption

Near the end of HBO's new documentary, Tina , the movie implies the legendary singer has made a decision: after this film rolls out, Tina Turner just might be done appearing in public and talking about her life. It's an odd message, coming from a woman whose life story and experiences have inspired at least four books, an Oscar-nominated biopic, a Broadway musical and, now, this new film.

"Some people say the life that I've lived and the performances I gave...the appreciation is lasting with the people and I should be proud of that," Turner says in an interview. "I am. But when do you stop being proud? How do you bow out slowly – just go away?"

Her husband, Erwin Bach, speaks more bluntly in the film just moments later. "She said, 'I'm going to America and I'm going to say goodbye to my American fans, and I'll wrap it up.' I think this documentary and the [musical] – this is it. It's a closure."

If true, that's a loss for the world – if Tina reveals anything, it's that Turner's life story is one for the ages.

Born Anna Mae Bullock in poverty in Tennessee, she rose from a dysfunctional early life to international stardom alongside her abusive bandleader husband Ike Turner, eventually leaving him to forge a new identity as an even bigger solo star. It's a story about survival and the endurance of talent which continues to inspire.

Consider the numbers: Turner has a dozen Grammy awards, many millions of records sold, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and a Kennedy Center Honor. She was voted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with ex-husband Ike Turner; this year, she's on the ballot as a solo act. NPR placed her 1984 comeback album Private Dancer at Number 34 on the list of 150 Greatest Albums Made By Women .

And yet, Turner herself remains deeply ambivalent about telling her story. The film presents one of those clip montages becoming common in celebrity biopics, displaying the cluelessness and blithe cruelty of journalists, this time asking deeply invasive questions about her abuse at Ike Turner's hands. (One standout moment: when a journalist asks about Ike Turner during a publicity tour for the film Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome , as Mel Gibson sits next to Tina Turner, looking on uncomfortably.)

Bach recalls how talking about the tough times in her life can lead the singer to relive those moments – even dream about them – like a soldier with PTSD. In another well-chosen clip, the documentary shows Turner at a press conference during the Venice Film Festival for her 1993 biopic What's Love Got to Do With It , explaining why she hadn't actually watched the movie.

"The story was actually written, so that I would no longer have to discuss the issue," Turner says in the clip, as the film's star, Angela Bassett, sits next to her, a tight smile plastered on her face. "I don't love that it's always talked about... this constant reminder, it's not so good. I'm not so happy about it."

Watching the story of her life unfold in Tina , you get the sense that avoidance is an important part of Turner's survival mechanism. Which highlights a sad irony: The stories of triumph and perseverance that have led so many fans to adore her – and has fueled so many books, films and added weight to hit records like What's Love Got to Do with It – are often painful for her to recount.

Still, Tina convenes an impressive array of sources to re-examine Turner's life, including Bassett; friend Oprah Winfrey; Kurt Loder, the MTV News anchor who co-authored her bestselling biography I, Tina and playwright Katori Hall, among others. There's a wide array of archival clips showing Turner in her performing prime; Ike Turner, who died in 2007, is represented through footage from old interviews.

The facts of her life are the stuff of rock legend. Ike Turner, an early pioneer in '50s-era rock and roll, included her in his band after hearing her sing during an intermission at a show. He renamed her Tina Turner and they built an act together over about two decades, before his abusive ways led her to run away and then divorce him.

Left with little more than the stage name her ex-husband gave her, Tina Turner rebuilt her career and her life to become one of the most successful female artists in rock history. Tina the film fills in the details, describing how afraid she was of Ike Turner, how she tried to commit suicide while married to him and how she eventually fled during a trip to Dallas.

The film reveals things casual fans might not know. That Turner felt rejected by her parents, especially her mother, who left the family when she was young. That her record company, unenthused about a middle-aged Black woman who wanted to sing rock and roll, nearly dropped her (one former executive recalls his boss using the n-word in reference to her). That she initially hated the song that would become her most successful single, "What's Love Got to Do with It."

And that, until 1986 when she met Bach — a German record company executive, 16 years her junior, sent to greet her at an airport — Turner never felt loved.

"I have not received love, almost ever in my life," she told Loder during interviews in 1985 for I, Tina , which play in the film. "I had not one love affair that was genuine and sustained itself. Not one. I've been through f*****g tons of heartbreak....Why can't someone see the beauty in the woman it is that I am?"

Like all documentaries produced with the cooperation of its subject, there are blind spots in Tina . Now age 81, Turner has struggled with health problems. She had a stroke in 2013, was diagnosed with intestinal cancer in 2016 and had a kidney transplant – donated by Bach – in 2017. But none of that is mentioned in the film.

It's arguably one of the most dramatic and compelling challenges Turner has faced in a life filled with them; a woman whose public persona is built around being a vibrant force of nature, who now must cope with aging. And yet, this is a subject Tina turns away from.

The film also doesn't talk much about race. Even though Turner moved from being an artist forged in the Black-dominated R&B, soul, and blues scenes that birthed early rock and roll to becoming a classic pop and rock star popular with white audiences and living in Europe.

It's an amazing cross-cultural journey for a Black woman who spent some of her early years picking cotton with her family while growing up in rural Tennessee. But it's also an issue Tina doesn't much delve into.

Still, Tina is, in many ways, a triumph: a compelling exploration of one of rock's most important performers, crafted in a way that, finally, might allow her to stop talking about a history that remains damaging to revisit.

The 13 Best Documentaries for Free on YouTube

These great documentaries will shock, educate, and give you shivers, and you can watch them all for free on YouTube.

If you have already delved into every documentary available on other streaming platforms, do not fear, because YouTube offers plenty of moving, tense, and interesting documentaries. YouTube ended 2023 with millions of premium subscribers who are able to buy or rent a wide range of amazing movies and TV shows. But for those who haven’t subscribed, you can still stream content for free , as YouTube is constantly keeping us updated with interesting and engaging content.

Updated Jan. 12, 2024: YouTube is always adding new documentaries for free, so we've updated this article to reflect some of the best available and to maintain the consistency and excellence we always strive for.

For documentary lovers who enjoy exploring real-life stories, unraveling a compelling true mystery, or even being educated on new and interesting discoveries, these are some of the best documentary movies you can watch for free on YouTube.

Some of the documentaries featured here may depict mature or upsetting content. Viewer discretion is advised.

13 All Is Self (2019)

Proposing that the chaos in our society is a representation of the chaos in our own minds, All Is Self examines how our society is built on the idea that we separate ourselves from nature, allowing us to harm the environment and others without feeling like we are destroying ourselves. We may feel detached from the rest of the world at times, but in this documentary we are shown how spiritual traditions around the world have recognized this for centuries, and how modern science has begun to understand this.

All Is Self Is Self-Reflective

The documentary makes us aware of the idea of "oneness," and how these spiritual traditions have led to the belief that all beings are our family — that we are one with nature, and that all is self. Who knew that enlightenment would be free on YouTube? This documentary will feel right at home for those in need of unique worldviews or different ways of thinking.

12 Josef Fritzl's Horrifying Crime (2022)

Josef Fritzl's Horrifying Crime is an emotionally painful but perfectly edited documentary about how a father's horrific actions tore a family apart. In 2008, the disturbing case of a woman who had been imprisoned in a basement for 24 years came to light. Elizabeth Fritzl was held captive, beaten, and sexually assaulted by her own father, Josef, and gave birth to seven of his children while she was imprisoned.

A Comprehensive Examination of the Crime

The documentary explores a real-life monster, explaining how these terrible actions affected the family and how he managed to conceal his evil actions. This is primarily handled via the inclusion of interviews and legal documentation by journalists and lawyers who followed the Josef Fritzl case. It's ironic that this free movie on YouTube would be better than any other telling of the Fritzl case.

11 The Atomic Café (1982)

Featuring a sobering look at apocalyptic nuclear warfare , as well as the false information and propaganda implemented by the United States throughout the Cold War, the 1982 documentary The Atomic Café includes chilling narrator-less clips of newsreels and footage released by the government throughout the '40s and the '50s at the dawn of the nuclear age.

The Atomic Café Is a Harrowing Reflection of History

The thought-provoking picture premiered during the height of American cynicism and nostalgia when our nation's citizens had diminished faith in the government, following both the Watergate Scandal and the Vietnam War. Through the use of military training footage, old television broadcasts, and propaganda films, viewers can get a taste of the hysteria and uncertainty running rampant throughout the country during that tense period in history.

10 A Murder in the Family (2016)

True crime has found a substantial home on YouTube in the past few years, with films like this being a notable example. When a British business person is murdered in his sleep in the Philippines in 2002, the mother of the victim, Margaret Davis, attempts to prove that her daughter-in-law was the one responsible. When Davis received a phone call telling her that her son was dead, she had no idea that the mastermind who was behind it all was the most unexpected suspect.

A Murder in the Family Leaves No Stone Unturned

A Murder in the Family takes true crime documentaries to a new level of suspense, providing insight into the ins and outs of the case, as well as how a mother uncovered the secrets around her son's death. It takes the audience on a rollercoaster ride as the shocking events unfold.

9 The Creepy Line (2018)

This documentary explores social media's impact and its profound effects on the way society thinks and behaves, as well as how it shapes public opinion overall. M.A. Taylor's eye-opening 2018 documentary, The Creepy Line , shines a light on how major internet platforms like Facebook and Google manipulate the public via meddling with user data. The intriguing film analyzes how the two massive tech companies infringe on data privacy for their own ulterior motives, proving its case with in-depth interviews and extensive studies that will leave you on edge the next time you hop on the internet.

The Creepy Line Examines Big Tech's Use of Your Data

Though this documentary was released in 2018, it's more relevant than ever with the advent of publicly-accessible artificial intelligence and the growing prominence of cyberwarfare. The lack of dramatization is doubly appreciated, allowing its numerous presenters to state their case with few distractions.

8 Blackfish (2013)

There's a good chance you've heard of Blackfish , even if you've never seen the film yourself. One of the most culturally significant documentaries of 2013, Blackfish 's subject is that of a captive orca, Tilikum, who was featured at SeaWorld Orlando. However, after poor living conditions and several violent incidents plague Tilikum's life in captivity, a violent outburst prompts wider discussion surrounding the utilization of captive orcas and the dubious ethics surrounding them.

Blackfish Had Real-Life Impacts

Blackfish saw a BAFTA Award nomination for Best Documentary, all while seemingly leaving behind a substantial impact on captive orcas. Much like how Tiger King drew attention to illicit exotic animals, Blackfish prompted significant backlash in the public eye surrounding Tilikum's captivity. Legislation in states like New York and California would be enacted to ban the practice of using captive orcas for entertainment, with additional legislation allowing for the study of captivity's effects on marine life.

That Time TLC Fooled Everyone With a Santa Claus Documentary

7 world’s scariest drug (2012).

This Vice documentary investigates a drug called Scopolamine, also known as The Devil's Breath. Originally developed in Colombia, VICE examines the drug's origins, its physiological effects, and why the drug itself has developed such an infamous reputation.

World's Scariest Drug Isn't Exaggerating

World's Scariest Drug is extremely enlightening, examining the different effects it can have on one's body — one of which is supposedly the power to make you incapable of exercising free will. The interviews conducted in this documentary are with the drug's varied dealers and people's personal experiences with the drug, painting a terrifying picture of one of the most dangerous substances on Earth. The story even takes a grim turn as more and more information is brought to light.

6 Life in a Day (2010)

Kevin Macdonald's 2011 crowdsourced film Life in a Day features a breathtaking compilation of images and video clips from over 80,000 YouTube users over the course of one single day, with the footage being submitted from 192 nations across the world. The innovative and engrossing documentary is an emotionally-moving time capsule that captures what life was like for people from all walks of life, backgrounds, and countries, with the clips all being filmed on July 24, 2010.

Life in a Day Was a Bold Experiment

Life in a Day was a massive hit with viewers and critics, with many calling it a feel-good movie that truly embodies how beautiful and unique the planet and its inhabitants are. ​​​​​ Its overwhelming success led to the equally captivating 2021 follow-up Life in a Day 2020, which depicted the tumultuous year that was plagued by the COVID-19 pandemic.

5 This Is What Winning Looks Like (2013)

Though the War in Afghanistan may have ended in 2021, the wounds left behind from the 20-year conflict will permeate history for generations. For those who had their boots on the ground, they likely know all too well how harrowing the conflict was. Vice's 2013 documentary, This Is What Winning Looks Like , utilizes its title in a deliberately ironic fashion, depicting the state of the Afghan military circa 2013 from the perspective of a group of United States soldiers. In an effort to train the Afghan National Security Forces to prepare them in the absence of the United States military, several harrowing discoveries and dwindling morale deliberately clash with the military's outwardly positive messaging.

This Is What Winning Looks Like Is Brutally Honest

From the perspective of the soldiers themselves, This Is What Winning Looks Like is brutally honest. It's a film that presents an authentic perspective of the men and women serving during that period of time, along with the numerous difficulties faced via clashing societal structures and cultural expectations. More than a decade later, several prophetic statements made throughout would eventually become reality, turning this film into a somber time capsule.

4 Citizenfour (2014)

One of the most important documentaries of the past decade, Citizenfour is available completely for free with ads on YouTube. The film explores Edward Snowden's disturbing revelations about government surveillance and the invasive behavior of the NSA. At the same time, through the trouble Laura Poitras had in making the film, Citizenfour also chronicles the disturbing antagonism the government has toward whistleblowers. The film is structured like one of the great conspiracy thrillers, except this one is disturbingly true .

Citizenfour Chronicles Government Surveillance and Invasions of Privacy

Knowing that Laura Poitras would later go on to direct All the Beauty and the Bloodshed , Citizenfour presents one of the most intimate examinations of the United States' most polarizing whistleblower. While the information revealed by Snowden may be common knowledge by now, there's something captivating about seeing him recount his experiences in person, unveiling one of the largest surveillance operations in global history. Citizenfour would later be the recipient of the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 2014.

3 Man on Wire (2008)

Adrenaline lovers and those not easily frightened by heights will find themselves completely engrossed with James Marsh's 2008 pulse-pounding doc Man on Wire , which offers a thrilling look at famous high-wire artist Philippe Petit's daring and dangerous 1974 walk between the World Trade Center's Twin Towers. The film chronicles Petit's meticulous planning of the death-defying act, which lasted for nearly an hour and resulted in the daredevil being arrested and subsequently released.

Man on Wire Will Leave You Breathless

The riveting picture premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, where it was awarded the prestigious Grand Jury Prize, in addition to taking home the award for Best Documentary Feature at the Oscars. Both audiences and critics were blown away by the tense and electrifying cinematography, and watched with bated breath as Petit attempted the harrowing walk. Man on Wire currently holds a 100% Rotten Tomatoes score from over 150 reviews, and went on to inspire the 2015 film The Walk, starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt.

The 25 Greatest Documentary Films of All Time, Ranked

2 13th (2016).

One of the rare documentaries that Netflix has put up completely for free on YouTube (with over 14 million views as a result), 13th is an important film that any American (or student of history) should watch. Ava DuVernay's film dissects the history of the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and its relationship to the prison-industrial complex. The film explores how slavery has never truly ended after the Civil War, but has rather been transferred to a massive political, legal, and corporate system which criminalizes Black citizens.

13th Is an Incredibly Poignant Documentary

13th saw a multitude of critical awards, the biggest of which being the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Special, though it also saw an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Feature. Being such a complex topic to break down, DuVernay incorporates a terrific sense of pacing mixed with genuine passion, allowing for a broader understanding of an abhorrent practice that gradually evolved into a new form of systemic oppression.

1 20 Days in Mariupol (2023)

One of the best documentaries of 2023 is available in its entirety on YouTube. 20 Days in Mariupol , a collaboration between Frontline and The Associated Press, presents an unseen look at Russia's siege of Mariupol over the course of 20 days, following Russia's initial invasion of Ukraine. Breathtaking footage provided by Ukrainian journalists trapped inside the city creates a haunting snapshot of the conflict as it started in 2022.

20 Days in Mariupol Is an Essential Documentary

20 Days in Mariupol saw extensive critical praise from the world over, with many naming it as one of the single greatest documentaries of 2023 . Though footage of the war has since become more publicly accessible after the initial siege, the images depicted here are nothing short of terrifying. Simultaneously, the bravery depicted by both ordinary citizens and the many moving pieces guiding them to safety is incredible to witness. From a contemporary standpoint, 20 Days in Mariupol is one of the most essential wartime documentaries to watch in the past few years.

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