You’re finally done with your favorite Netflix binge show and you’re feeling a little lost. What do you do now? With so many options on Netflix, finding a new movie can be a little overwhelming. These five documentaries are not only the answer to your problem, but will also completely blow your mind–maybe even change your perspective on a subject. Snuggle up, get some popcorn and enjoy!
1. Tapped
Did you know that about 40% of all bottled water is simply tap water? That’s right, put down your Smartwater and spend that money on something else! This documentary explores the misconception of how bottled water is “better” for you than tap water, along with the negative effects bottled water has on our environment, our wallets and our health. It also discusses how tap water is actually filtered and regulated more than most bottled water. After watching this documentary, you will never look at bottled water in the same way.
2. Fat, Sick, and Nearly Dead
If you’ve ever contemplated whether the current juicing fad actually works, this documentary will definitely answer your questions. This Netflix gem follows an overweight man as he attempts to turn his health around by juicing for 60 days in a row. He travels across America, sharing his weight loss progress and juicing ideas with strangers. Not only does he undergo a complete transformation by the end, but he adopts a completely different lifestyle as well. If you loved the documentaries Super Size Me and Food Inc., you’ll love this one even more.
3. Happy
Be prepared to turn on the waterworks during this documentary. Happy is an uplifting journey across the world to discover what truly makes people happy. If you’re having a tough and stressful week, take an hour to watch this mood changer. Whether it’s 40 years of surfing for a Brazilian man, or a boat tour guide seeing Louisiana swamps as “paradise”, this documentary shows you that it’s the little things in life that count. It’s okay to focus on yourself sometimes, and we college kids need to realize that. This movie will definitely leave you smiling and grateful for what you have.
4. Miss Representation
Watching this documentary my freshman year changed my perspective on society completely. This movie sparked my interest in social justice advocacy and has remained one of my favorites even a year later. Despite the title, it is just as important for guys to watch as it is for girls. The focus of the documentary is on the media’s portrayal of women, but also covers topics like the lack of female leaders in US politics. If this kind of documentary sounds interesting to you, I definitely suggest watching Tough Guise and Tough Guise 2 as well.
5. Park Avenue: Money, Power, and the American Dream
If you’re a business major or interested in politics, this documentary will be a match made in heaven for you. The wealthy Upper-East side of Manhattan is juxtaposed with the Bronx throughout the movie, attempting to show the widening gap between the rich and poor. The Netflix documentary focuses on how America is not such a land of opportunity as we think, and how the “1% of the 1%” spin policies and politicians in their favor. Whether or not you agree with its viewpoints, it definitely shows how hard it is to pull yourself out of poverty.
Trust us—give these documentaries a chance. Not only will you get a break from that Bio homework, but you’ll walk away with a changed perspective on life. Can Pretty Little Liars say that?