Labeled as one of the best genre formats working to reshape the television landscape, TV documentaries expand on many topics that not only captivate audiences with fascinating delivery but also tread into controversial territory that challenges the notion of what can be discussed on the small screen. Docu-series present narratives to the public in a completely different structure. Whether diving into the past or examining a phenomenon relevant to the present, several docu-series have cultivated large debates and fan engagement.
Among the standard TV shows remaining in the pop culture zeitgeist, an equal number of docu-series have entered this space. Those acclaimed series have also had a lasting impact that rivals big-budget productions. Some have even out-shined the intricately paced narratives of fictional series, where the televised version of real-life draws in an impressive number of eyes.
10 WWII in Color Modernizes a Significant Historical Event for War Buffs
The Past Comes to Life With Engaging Footage
Informative while maintaining a simplistic approach in its execution, the British educational docu-series WWII in Color exposes viewers to one of the most important wars in human history. Rather than shy away from the uncomfortable aspects surrounding WWII, the show’s colorization of documented footage allows modern audiences to be invested in the brutal reality of war. It breathes life into the circumstances that led to this global event involving multiple countries and key political figures.
Concise with its narration and visuals, the series’ full transcript of WWII hooks people from its very first episode. It explores all the important battles and critical components that led to the Allies’ victory over the Axis Powers without feeling tiresome. This technique gives the series an edge over other war docu-series, and, given its smart stylistic choices, war-buffs will no doubt enjoy the series for many years to come.
9 Wild Wild Country Analyzes a Wild Movement In the Most Thrilling Way
The Machinations of a Cult Become Increasingly Dangerous
Commenting on the dangers of a hyper-religious group, Netflix’s 2018 crime docu-series Wild Wild Country visualizes a prominent cult leader, Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, as well as key individuals who were a part of the Rajneeshpuram community. It takes viewers into the deranged minds of people motivated by faith, greed and power. Wild Wild Country tackles the ins and outs of the Rajneeshpuram community from testimonies by members themselves, including several outside perspectives.
The series creates an absorbing atmosphere littered with controversial people. Brilliantly paced to engross audiences, Wild Wild Country’s narrative unfolds in many unexpected ways. The Rajneeshpuram community’s story, spanning decades and affecting countless lives, mirrors other infamous cults. Their manipulative actions and deadly intentions force viewers to reflect on how easily people can be tricked into unfortunate circumstances.
8 Tiger King Digs Deep on its Greedy Subject
Unending Plot Twists Enthrall Audiences at Every Turn
Cutting together a convoluted narrative in an entertaining though sometimes unethical manner, Netflix’s true crime docu-series Tiger King reports on a handful of big cat conservationists and seeks to understand the bizarre personalities inhabiting this space. It does so, all while keeping in line with the familiar true crime genre format. Tiger King maps out a story involving a money-hungry criminal whose ambitions lead him down a path of violence and crime.
The series was further shared online thanks to its audience, even with poorly executed later seasons. Despite leaning on comedy and drama to flesh out its plot, the show unfortunately fizzles out quickly. Having an enjoyable first season with a solid ending, Tiger King ultimately lacks any intriguing additional material in its later episodes. Unfortunately, it constructs a subpar continuation that doesn’t hold a candle to its first outing, leaving viewers disinterested in the aftermath of these odd individuals.
7 Dark Side of the Ring Exposes the Tragedies of a Giant Industry
Professional Wrestling Receives Its Rawest Depiction to Date
Dark Side of the Ring explores the harsh realities of a sports and entertainment juggernaut with precision. The Canadian professional wrestling docu-series finds the tonal balance of educating fans while not being overtly melodramatic or depressing about this grueling media empire. Rather, the series’ honest examination of professional wrestling highlights the damage inflicted on many athletes and performers, as well as the scandals or controversial elements littered within the ludicrously successful business.
Keeping a respectful approach to its subjects, Dark Side of the Ring can be appreciated by many viewers. The show never sugarcoats its infamous narratives as it faces the past with the help of insiders and detailed research. By illuminating the unfortunate components of professional wrestling, audiences can finally see the full picture of a corporation that, despite having an abundance of devoted fans, also has a less than clean image.
6 Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV Breaks Viewers’ Hearts
Childhood Memories Unfortunately Face the Harsh Truths of Reality
Investigation Discovery’s 2024 true crime docu-series Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV examines a seedy underbelly of abuse within children’s entertainment. The series displays several appalling revelations from former child actors and industry insiders who were privy to or faced traumatic experiences by prominent figures of the Nickelodeon network. Potentially veering into exploitative territory, the series charts the circumstances that led to these victims facing abuse and aims to hear each story with no ulterior motives
Plowing through multiple controversies, Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV aims to enlighten fans of the Nickelodeon brand. Many iconic childhood stars and other talented artists behind the scenes endured toxic behavior, harassment or severe crimes on one of the most beloved kids’ television networks. The series provides audiences with the crucial facets of how the entertainment industry can negatively affect others at any age and at any level of fame.
5 The Jinx Reveals a Shocking Narrative from a Deranged Figure
A Criminal Finally Faces Justice for His Actions
Drafting out a multilayered story that blends excellent film-making with real-life journalism, HBO’s true crime docuseries The Jinx stands alongside the network’s other acclaimed shows. It edits together the full case study of real estate heir Robert Durst and how the wealthy New Yorker committed multiple murders before getting caught, thanks to the series itself. Interviewing and researching while performing reenactments to grip viewers, the show investigates the lengths of Robert Durst’s actions and how the killer ultimately reaches jail time.
The Jinx heavily affects viewers, especially because it has vital evidence against its primary subject. The series has the rare distinction of elevating its narrative. Gaining a new perspective on the Robert Durst murders by actively helping to put the criminal away and discussing the lives of people intimately involved with the case, leaves viewers stunned at every turn.
4 The Vietnam War Unpacks the Sheer Scope of a Brutal Conflict
Ken Burns and Lynn Novick Conduct Extensive and Necessary Research
Following the same structure as many other Ken Burns documentaries, PBS’ 2017 docu-series The Vietnam War courts audiences to the past by exploring the depth of the titular Vietnam War. It threads all the interviewees into a seamless narrative. What makes this docu-series unique is the fact that it forgoes any major stance. It, instead, aims to deliver a full-scale understanding of why the Vietnam War happened, who were the key players involved on either side and what occurred during brutal acts of destruction across the nation of Vietnam.
Meticulous without being boring, the series’ ten episodes flow smoothly for general viewers and knowledgeable war buffs. Interestingly, despite having no clear viewpoint other than dictating historical events, The Vietnam War still receives controversy from both sides of the political spectrum. Critics argue against its merits, which further proves that the Vietnam War still lingers today as a tough spot for most people beyond the confines of TV education.
3 Making a Murderer Details a Convoluted Series of Crimes Interestingly
A Convict Endures the Justice System for a Lifetime
Making a Murderer explores decades of elaborate criminal cases. Netflix’s true crime docu-series comments on criminals Steven Avery and his nephew, Brendan Dassey, who have been convicted of murder. The men find themselves at the center of a supposed conspiracy given the unconventional circumstances revolving around the titular murder investigation. Similar to most chilling true-crime TV shows, the series’ framework leaves viewers on edge with an unwinding and frustrating plot.
Creating more questions than answers, the show’s controversial material finds no definitive end for its primary subjects. The series examines the evidence stacked against Steven Avery, including the presumed unjustified actions of the justice system in Manitowoc County. Making a Murderer, like other true-crime documentaries, provides a stimulating through-line of real-life violence while opting to piece together a story that may never be solved.
2 We Need to Talk About Cosby Dissects a Legendary Entertainer
The Sins of an Icon Have to Be Acknowledged
Unapologetic about discussing an influential figure in entertainment, Showtime’s 2022 documentary miniseries We Need to Talk About Cosby pursues the duality found in performer Bill Cosby’s complicated legacy. The comedian’s criminal actions, compiled with the star’s impact on changing the landscape of Hollywood, are each given a fair representation. Redefining comedy with stand-up material, feature films and iconic TV series like The Cosby Show, Bill Cosby’s varied career is unlike most celebrities, which makes his ultimate downfall that much more shocking.
Analyzing a seemingly fatherly figure, the series’ honest dialogue about a now-recognized criminal/icon embraces controversy. The series features conversations with multiple assault survivors, as well as other comedians and journalists. It considers the cultural relevancy of the artist’s work. We Need to Talk About Cosby draws out the full story of a man who abused the lives of so many people and brought joy to others as well.
1 O.J.: Made in America Unravels an Important Moment in Pop Culture
An Infamous Case Deserves a Full Psychoanalytical Study
ESPN’s documentary miniseries O.J.: Made in America traces the major life events of controversial football star O.J. Simpson. It focuses on how the once-beloved celebrity ultimately gripped American society following the murder of Nicole Brown, with the former athlete as the prime suspect. Peering into darker cultural facets of America through a subject like O.J. Simpson, the show unwinds the full spectrum of American identity and expresses how the O.J. Simpson trial highlighted these points.
Technically crisp across the board, O.J.: Made in America never wastes a moment to captivate audiences. Sparking fierce debates still to this day, the show’s execution highlights the primal responses circumventing the O.J. Simpson trial. It also examines how a criminal case is never cut and dry, and that there is always a larger debate involved when it is viewed through all angles of discussion.
