Netflix documentaries are the perfect way to “chill” over holiday breaks. We can’t think of a better way to constructively waste time! So put on your favorite pair of pjs, grab your ideal snack, turn off the lights, and get ready to check off your “learn something new everyday” goal!
13th
13th documentary was nominated for Best Documentary at the Oscars. It is a thought-provoking, informative story of the criminalization of African Americans.
Audrie and Daisy
Audrie and Dasiy tells the story of sexual assault cases of two young girls by boys they saw as friends. It is a heart-breaking documentary of harassment and bullying.
The True Cost
If you shop at popular stores like H&M, this documentary is important. The True Cost goes into detail about the links between consumer pressure for low-cost high fashion and the horrible experiences of the sweatshop workers who produce those goods.
Amanda Knox
The infamous Amanda Know wrongful conviction in 2007 is investigated in this jaw-dropping documentary, including the trial and judicial processes. Warning: Think carefully about watching if you are going abroad next semester.
Blackfish/A Plastic Ocean/Planet Earth
If you are interested in animals and nature, Planet Earth portrays spectacular scenes of animals in the wild and beautiful scenery. Blackfish and A Plastic Ocean are both difficult, yet essential documentaries to get through in terms of our mistreatment and ignorance for living creatures. Blackfish examines the life of the performing killer whale at SeaWorld. A Plastic Ocean investigates the pollution’s environmental impacts.
Gaga: Five Foot Two
Gaga: Five Foot Two follows Lady Gaga through her physical and emotional struggles of performing, specifically with releasing her new album and prepping for her Super Bowl halftime show. It provides valuable insight and another perspective into her life.
Growing Up Coy
Growing Up Coy follows a Colorado family’s highly public battle for the rights of their transgender daughter through a civil rights case.
Hot Girls Wanted
Hot Girls Wanted spotlights the “amateur” porn industry and provides personal perspectives from the women the industry exploits.
Miss Representation
Miss Representation is a women’s empowerment documentary that explores media’s derogatory portrayal of women. It also goes into detail about the under-representation of females in positions of leadership.
Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son about Father (available on DVD only)
Dear Zachary is only available on DVD only. However, I highly recommend buying it or finding it on another viewing website. If you are in the mood for a good cry, watch this documentary. It honors Andrew Bagby’s life, who was shot by his ex-girlfriend. His killer becomes pregnant with Andrew’s baby and the documentary is filmed to tell the child about his father. The documentary provides unbelievable plot twists and a truly disgusting story.
Her Campus Bucknell hopes you have a relaxing, informative break! Come back to Bucknell a little wiser by watching these powerful documentaries!