Hulu is home to a diverse selection of documentaries that engage audiences with real-life narratives, groundbreaking journalism, and compelling storytelling. Whether you're looking to explore historical events, uncover true crime mysteries, or gain inspiration from powerful human stories, Hulu's documentary library offers a variety of genres that cater to all interests. This list highlights the best documentaries available on Hulu, offering something for every documentary enthusiast.
1. Fyre Fraud (2019)
Description: Explosive investigation into the disastrous Fyre Festival scam.
Overview and Features
"Fyre Fraud" provides an in-depth look at one of the biggest scams in recent history: the infamous Fyre Festival. Directed by Jenner Furst and Julia Willoughby Nason, this documentary chronicles the rise and fall of the Fyre Festival, a supposed luxury music festival that turned into a complete disaster. Through interviews with key players, including co-founder Billy McFarland, the film exposes the manipulation and chaos that led to the festival’s implosion.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Fyre Fraud" is celebrated for its comprehensive investigation into the scandal, uncovering how influencer culture, social media, and financial greed contributed to the event’s downfall. The film’s exploration of modern-day marketing deception makes it a cautionary tale about trust and accountability in the digital age.
Unique Description: Explosive look at the disastrous Fyre Festival scam.
IMDb Score: 6.8
2. Minding the Gap (2018)
Description: Heartfelt documentary about friendship, skateboarding, and personal struggles.
Overview and Features
Directed by Bing Liu, "Minding the Gap" is a deeply personal and powerful documentary that follows the lives of three young skateboarders in Rockford, Illinois. The film explores their bond over skateboarding while delving into complex issues such as family dynamics, domestic abuse, and the challenges of growing up. As the filmmaker reflects on his own past, "Minding the Gap" becomes more than just a skateboarding documentary—it’s a poignant meditation on friendship, trauma, and resilience.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Minding the Gap" is praised for its intimate storytelling and emotional depth. Bing Liu’s candid exploration of difficult subjects, combined with stunning skateboarding footage, makes this documentary both visually captivating and profoundly moving. It’s a powerful reflection on the struggles of youth and the search for identity.
Unique Description: Heartfelt documentary blending skateboarding with personal struggles.
IMDb Score: 8.0
3. Three Identical Strangers (2018)
Description: Shocking true story of triplets separated at birth for a secret study.
Overview and Features
"Three Identical Strangers," directed by Tim Wardle, is a jaw-dropping documentary that tells the unbelievable true story of triplets who were separated at birth and raised by different families. The triplets reunite as adults by pure coincidence, leading to national attention. However, as they delve deeper into their past, they uncover a disturbing secret: they were part of a secret scientific study on nature versus nurture.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Three Identical Strangers" is celebrated for its gripping narrative and shocking revelations. The film raises important ethical questions about scientific experimentation and the long-term effects of separating siblings. Its blend of suspense, human drama, and moral inquiry makes it a compelling watch for anyone interested in psychology and ethics.
Unique Description: Shocking story of triplets and a secret psychological study.
IMDb Score: 7.6
4. RBG (2018)
Description: Inspirational look at the life and legacy of Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
Overview and Features
Directed by Betsy West and Julie Cohen, "RBG" is an inspiring documentary that chronicles the extraordinary life of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. The film highlights her early years, her career as a lawyer advocating for gender equality, and her rise to the Supreme Court. Through interviews and archival footage, "RBG" showcases Ginsburg's relentless fight for justice and her impact on American law and society.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"RBG" is celebrated for its comprehensive portrayal of Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s incredible contributions to gender equality and civil rights. The film serves as both a tribute to her remarkable career and a source of inspiration for those who believe in the power of the law to bring about social change.
Unique Description: Inspirational documentary on Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
IMDb Score: 7.6
5. The Act of Killing (2012)
Description: Chilling exploration of mass murderers reenacting their crimes.
Overview and Features
Directed by Joshua Oppenheimer, "The Act of Killing" is a provocative documentary that delves into the dark history of the Indonesian mass killings of the 1960s. The film focuses on former death squad leaders who are asked to reenact their real-life crimes for the camera, resulting in surreal and chilling performances. The documentary challenges viewers to confront the horrors of violence and the unsettling ways in which perpetrators rationalize their actions.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"The Act of Killing" is celebrated for its groundbreaking approach to documentary filmmaking and its chilling exploration of the psychology of mass murderers. The film’s unsettling subject matter and bold storytelling make it a powerful and thought-provoking experience.
Unique Description: Chilling reenactment of mass killings by the perpetrators.
IMDb Score: 8.2
6. Flee (2021)
Description: Animated documentary about a refugee’s journey to find safety.
Overview and Features
"Flee," directed by Jonas Poher Rasmussen, is a unique and emotionally powerful documentary that combines animation with real-life storytelling. The film follows the story of Amin, a man who fled Afghanistan as a child and now recounts his journey to safety as a refugee. Through animation, "Flee" explores Amin's memories, fears, and hopes, offering a deeply personal perspective on the refugee experience.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Flee" is celebrated for its innovative use of animation to tell a deeply personal and poignant story. The film offers a unique and moving portrayal of the refugee experience, shedding light on the emotional toll of displacement while highlighting the resilience of the human spirit.
Unique Description: Animated refugee story blending personal memory with survival.
IMDb Score: 8.0
7. WeWork: Or the Making and Breaking of a $47 Billion Unicorn (2021)
Description: Riveting rise and fall of the WeWork empire.
Overview and Features
"WeWork: Or the Making and Breaking of a $47 Billion Unicorn" is a fascinating documentary that delves into the rapid rise and spectacular fall of WeWork, the co-working company once valued at $47 billion. Directed by Jed Rothstein, the film explores the charismatic leadership of WeWork’s CEO, Adam Neumann, and the questionable practices that led to the company's downfall.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
This documentary offers an insightful look into the world of start-ups, leadership, and the tech industry’s obsession with unicorn companies. It’s a cautionary tale of ambition, greed, and the fragility of inflated valuations, making it essential viewing for business professionals and tech enthusiasts.
Unique Description: Riveting rise and fall of the $47 billion WeWork empire.
IMDb Score: 6.6
8. Crime + Punishment (2018)
Description: A gripping exposé on police quotas and racial injustice.
Overview and Features
"Crime + Punishment," directed by Stephen Maing, is a powerful documentary that exposes corruption within the New York Police Department, specifically its quota system that disproportionately targets minority communities. The film follows a group of whistleblower cops, known as the NYPD 12, as they challenge the system from within while risking their careers to demand justice.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Crime + Punishment" is celebrated for its fearless portrayal of systemic corruption and its advocacy for police reform. The film’s combination of investigative journalism and human stories makes it an eye-opening and impactful viewing experience for anyone concerned with social justice.
Unique Description: Exposé on NYPD’s quota system and racial injustice.
IMDb Score: 7.5
9. Apollo 11 (2019)
Description: Awe-inspiring documentary on the historic 1969 moon landing.
Overview and Features
"Apollo 11" is a breathtaking documentary that chronicles NASA's legendary mission to land a man on the moon. Directed by Todd Douglas Miller, the film uses never-before-seen footage and archival audio to take viewers inside the Apollo 11 mission, offering a stunningly immersive experience of one of humanity's greatest achievements.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"Apollo 11" is celebrated for its meticulous attention to detail and its ability to recreate the tension and excitement of the historic moon landing. The film’s use of restored footage creates a visually striking and awe-inspiring documentary that appeals to both space enthusiasts and history buffs.
Unique Description: Immersive documentary on the legendary 1969 moon landing.
IMDb Score: 8.2
10. I Am Greta (2020)
Description: Insightful documentary following climate activist Greta Thunberg.
Overview and Features
"I Am Greta" is a documentary directed by Nathan Grossman that offers a behind-the-scenes look at the life of teenage climate activist Greta Thunberg. The film follows Greta’s rise to global prominence as she campaigns for climate action, from her solitary school strike in Sweden to her speeches at international forums. The documentary provides a personal and intimate glimpse into the young activist's journey and the challenges she faces.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
"I Am Greta" is celebrated for its intimate portrayal of Greta Thunberg's unwavering dedication to climate activism. The documentary serves as both an inspiring story of youth empowerment and a call to action for viewers to engage with the climate crisis.
Unique Description: Intimate documentary on climate activist Greta Thunberg.
IMDb Score: 7.5
FAQs
1. What makes Hulu’s documentaries stand out?
Hulu offers a wide range of documentaries that cover diverse topics, from true crime and politics to inspiring personal stories, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
2. Which Hulu documentaries explore social justice themes?
"Crime + Punishment" and "RBG" are two powerful documentaries on Hulu that delve into issues of justice, equality, and civil rights.
3. Are there any inspiring documentaries on Hulu?
Yes, "Minding the Gap" and "I Am Greta" offer inspirational stories of personal struggle, resilience, and activism.
4. Which Hulu documentary is best for space enthusiasts?
"Apollo 11" is a must-watch for space enthusiasts, offering an immersive look at the historic moon landing.
5. What documentaries on Hulu highlight corporate scandals?
"WeWork: Or the Making and Breaking of a $47 Billion Unicorn" provides a riveting look into the rise and fall of a major tech company.
6. Does Hulu have animated documentaries?
Yes, "Flee" is a unique animated documentary that tells a powerful refugee story using a blend of animation and real-life events.
Hulu’s documentary library offers a treasure trove of compelling stories that educate, inspire, and captivate. From the gripping true crime of "Three Identical Strangers" to the awe-inspiring space exploration of "Apollo 11," there’s no shortage of fascinating content to explore. Whether you're drawn to social justice, history, or personal triumphs, these top 10 Hulu documentaries provide something for everyone. Start your documentary binge today and immerse yourself in some of the best real-life stories available.
