The documentary film genre is perfect for those with inquisitive minds who crave information, in-depth reporting, and captivating accounts of factual stories and events. If that’s you, keep reading.
Like other movie categories, the range of documentary topics is far-reaching—and Hulu has an extensive collection that spans the spectrum. The streaming service’s wide-ranging offerings include everything from true crime stories that shook communities to awe-inspiring biographical triumphs that grabbed headlines. With subject matters running the gamut, we’re confident that there’s a selection on this non-fiction list that will pique interest and leave a long-lasting impression.
So, sit back, relax and get ready to dive into some of the best documentaries on Hulu that have the power to enlighten, reshape perspectives, and spark great conversations. If you're not a Hulu member yet, you can sign up right now for the 7-day free trial.
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1The Vow
Hulu
This nine-part docuseries takes a deep dive into the lives of several members who joined the controversial self-improvement group, NXIVM. Intriguing, perplexing, and downright baffling are just a few words to describe the events that unfold in this behind-the-scenes look at what many have dubbed a “sex cult.”
When Yusuf Hawkins, an African American teen was shot and killed by an angry white mob in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn, it sent shockwaves throughout the Black community. This documentary sheds light on the tragic incident and the criminal case that followed.
As the CEO of the now-defunct company Theranos, Elizabeth Holmes created a scandalous web of deceit. Her fraudulent claims of transforming medical blood testing and diagnostics are thoroughly examined in this riveting account.
The legendary Harlem theater is celebrated in this Emmy-winning feature that takes viewers on a star-studded, musical journey of the famed venue’s rich history and game-changing cultural impact.
Ruth Bader Ginsburg was everyone’s favorite Supreme Court Justice and for good reason. Her groundbreaking legal battles changed the world for women. The late trailblazing lawyer’s impressive rise up the ranks to the highest court in the land is explored in this refreshing, unique all-access look inside her laudable life.
Based on Andrew Solomon’s best-selling book of the same title, this compelling compilation shares the harrowing stories of parents whose children are generally considered unique or different. Through an empathetic lens, the subjects recount their experiences and their personal journeys towards embracing their offspring’s unique individualism.
Powerful and necessary, this intimate narrative gives viewers a glimpse into the lives of the friends, families, and fellow students of those who were killed in the 2018 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. In addition to chilling accounts of that fateful day, the documentary also highlights the ongoing demands for gun control in the U.S.
Ever wonder how social media stars cope with sudden online fame in real life? This no-frills doc explores that subject and other pressing issues surrounding social media, including the psychological effects of its nonstop use.
Want an adrenaline rush without leaving the couch? If so, this nail-biting feature delivers. Award-winning filmmaker E. Chai Vasarhelyi and world-renowned photographer Jimmy Chin follow record-breaking free solo climber, Alex Honnold, as he prepares for the ultimate ascent: scaling the 3,200-ft El Capitan rock in Yosemite National Park without a rope. Masterfully shot, it feels like you are right there with Honnold in this remarkably gripping story.
A trailblazing makeup artist, Kevyn Aucoin was a master at his craft. His unmatched contouring techniques and easygoing vibe made him a fixture in fashion circles of the ‘80s and ‘90s. Famous friends and clients like Cher, Naomi Campbell, and Kate Moss reflect on the icon’s life, enviable career, and untimely passing in this inspiring, yet somber film.
Arguably one of the best and most admired writers to ever live, Margaret Atwood’s generally unknown personal story is wonderfully told in this refreshing film. As the author of more than a dozen bestsellers, including The Handmaid’s Tale, Atwood’s legacy and body of will stand the test of time—and this production beautifully highlights it.
Today Air Jordan sneakers are synonymous with basketball, but they didn’t always hold court on the hardwood. This energetic doc chronicles the life of the trendsetting footwear made famous by none other than sports icon Michael Jordan. With soundbites from celebrities like Spike Lee and Quincy Jones, the program is sprinkled with interesting tidbits and little-known facts about the shoe that ushered in an indisputable cultural shift.
Fearless and female, this stirring documentary centers around pediatrician and managing physician Dr. Amani Ballour and her colleagues Samaher and Dr. Alaa as they work tirelessly alongside their male counterparts treating patients in a secret, underground Syrian hospital. Faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges such as patriarchal oppression, supply shortages, and chemical attacks in the war-ravaged country, these women exemplify resilience and solidarity in this moving portrait of bravery.
For many, hobbies are more than relaxing activities, creative outlets or fun forms of expression—in some cases, they save lives. This enthralling film follows a diverse group of friends whose lives are fueled and transformed by their passion for skateboarding. It also touches on the intricacies of modern-day masculinity.
15Say Her Name: The Life and Death of Sandra Bland
Hulu
Beyond the hashtags and viral video footage, this critically acclaimed film investigates the death of Sandra Bland, a politically active African-American woman who died while in police custody. She was found dead in her jail cell three days after being arrested following a minor traffic stop in Texas.
There are artists and then there’s Madonna. Before she became a global pop icon, she was just an ambitious young woman with big dreams. This re-enacted story retraces her early days as the lead singer of the new wave band, the Breakfast Club. Actress Jamie Auld plays the Grammy-winning artist and bears an eerily striking resemblance to the influential singer.
Two Los Angeles city slickers trade in their urban lifestyles for overseeing livestock in this award-winning documentary. Married couple Chester and Molly chronicle their mind-blowing experience of starting a farm from top to bottom in Moorpark, California. Teeming with fantastic footage of nature in its purest, unedited form, this film leaves viewers with a deeper appreciation for the planet and the countless creatures that inhabit it.
With day school looking a lot different for many students in the U.S., this joyous observational documentary about a boarding school in Ireland is a semi-nostalgic reprieve from the stresses of the current academic upheaval. Filmed over the course of a year, it follows the students at Headfort School in Kells, and their inspiring teachers, John and Amanda Leyden.
Separated at birth, identical triplets are adopted by three different families in this amazing story. After living totally separate lives and unaware of their doppelgänger siblings, the brothers are reunited in this fascinating film that’s filled with jaw-dropping twists and turns.
Timeless style and impeccable storytelling collide in this captivating film about the Christian Dior fashion house. The luxury French retailer’s illustrious history is shared, as well as a behind-the-scenes look inside art director Raf Simons’ debut haute couture collection.
Karla PopeKarla Pope is a longtime writer, editor and lifestyle blogger who enjoys exploring New York City with her two young children.
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