7 Documentaries on Netflix
I’ve been really into documentaries lately. Here are 7 documentaries that I have watched for the first time over the last few months.
Dance Dreams Hot Chocolate Nutcracker is about a dance studio that puts on an alternative version of the nutcracker during Christmas time. We get to see the whole process from the audition to the final performance.
A Secret Love is about two women who have been in a secret relationship for decades. In the documentary they decide to come out to their family and tell them about their relationship after keeping it a secret for so many years.
Rita Moreno Just a Girl Who Decided to Go For It, is a documentary about the legendary actress Rita Moreno. She talks about everything from her childhood to her career to her relationship. It was really interesting to get an insight into such a legend.
Found is a documentary about three girls are all adopted and find out through an ancestry website/dna test that they are cousins. They end up planning a trip to go to china which is where they were all born before they were adopted.
Black Barbie is a documentary about the creation of the first black Barbie doll to be created at Mattel and all that went into that and how it changed the toy industry when it comes to representation.
Elephant Whispers is about an elephant rescue/sanctuary. It follows two orphaned elephants and their caretakers as they live their lives.
ABBA Against The Odds is a documentary about the Swedish music group known as ABBA. While watching this film I learned a lot about the group from how they were formed to how they wrote their songs, to their rise in popularity on a global scale.
Although all of these documentaries are all very different, I learned something while watching every single one of them. If you are also someone who enjoys learning new things I would recommend checking them out.
Cover made on Canva
It’s always a treat to stumble upon a documentary that truly stays with you, isn't it? Lately, my Netflix queue has been a goldmine of incredible stories, and I wanted to share a bit more about what made some of these films so impactful, especially for those of you craving those truly unforgettable documentary scenes. Take "ABBA Against The Odds" for instance. As someone who grew up with their music, I thought I knew their story, but this documentary peeled back layers I never expected. It wasn't just a chronological run-through; it delved into the challenges they faced as artists trying to maintain their creative integrity while navigating global superstardom. You get to see candid moments of them in the studio, grappling with song lyrics, and the intense pressure of touring. The documentary really highlights how their unique sound came to be, showing clips of them collaborating, and it’s truly a testament to their genius. Seeing that iconic "black and white photo of the four members of ABBA smiling" on the cover gives you a hint of the joy, but the film reveals the complexities behind those smiles, making their journey even more compelling. Beyond ABBA, each documentary in my list offered its own set of powerful moments. "Dance Dreams Hot Chocolate Nutcracker" transported me into the world of young aspiring dancers. There's a particular sequence during the audition process, where you feel the raw emotion and dedication of each "young ballerina" as they pour their heart into every step. It's not just about the dance; it’s about the community, the mentorship, and the sheer willpower to achieve a dream. Then there's "A Secret Love," which is such a poignant exploration of enduring love. The "vintage-style photo of two smiling older women" on the Netflix cover hints at their long history, but the film delves into the incredible courage it took for them to finally share their decades-long secret with their family. The scenes where they recount their early days and the quiet strength of their commitment truly resonate. It's a beautiful, honest look at identity, love, and family acceptance. And who could forget "Black Barbie"? This documentary is a fascinating look at how representation evolves. It goes beyond the toy itself, exploring the cultural significance of creating the first "Black Barbie doll with curly hair and prominent eye makeup." The film skillfully unpacks the discussions and debates within Mattel and the wider community about what this doll meant for young Black girls. It’s a powerful reminder of how even a toy can be a catalyst for change and a symbol of empowerment. Even the quieter, more observational films like "Elephant Whispers" have their profound scenes. Watching the caretakers interact with the orphaned "elephant" calves, witnessing their unspoken bond and the sheer resilience of these animals, was incredibly moving. It’s a beautiful portrayal of compassion and the intricate relationships that can form across species. These aren't just documentaries; they're experiences. They offer windows into different worlds, challenges, and triumphs, often leaving you with a fresh perspective or a renewed sense of inspiration. If you're looking for more than just a story, but rather a journey filled with genuine emotion and impactful scenes, I highly recommend diving into these titles. What were some of your most unforgettable documentary scenes lately? I'd love to hear!
