In
recent years, the US has had a new pastime arise; binge-watching documentaries
on Netflix and other streaming services. Can’t find anything on TV? It’s time
to start watching a new documentary series. Of course, many have revolved
around celebrities and we’ve seen some brilliant additions to the category this
year. If you’re looking for something to watch this holiday season, here’s a
selection of our favorites!
Ice
on Fire
If
you haven’t seen this environmental
documentary
already, we highly recommend it. Not only is it narrated by Leonardo DiCaprio,
it is produced by the star and touches on all sorts of environmental risks that
are present in today’s society. Will an arctic methane release cause an
extinction-level event? What technologies will help with reversing global
warming effects? This is a great insight into the problems we face and how our
planet will survive (if at all!).
Surviving
R. Kelly
It
was the talk of everybody at the beginning of the year, and we’re sure the
conversation will continue for some time to come. If you haven’t yet seen it, this
documentary explored the alleged sexual crimes of the famous singer/rapper.
First made available by Lifetime, a number of women have come forward against
R. Kelly and the documentary actually led to him being dropped from his label
and arrested.
Leaving
Neverland
Although
somewhat difficult to watch, just like Surviving R. Kelly, Leaving
Neverland covers the allegations of two men against Michael Jackson. Though
never found guilty while alive, the allegations surrounding Jackson have never
disappeared. Were stories swept under the carpet? Do you believe the
allegations?
Ask
Dr Ruth
Dr
Ruth isn’t a celebrity in the traditional sense of the word, but she is in many
people’s eyes. As a holocaust survivor, HIV activist, and sex therapist, Dr
Ruth Westheimer was one of the few speaking openly about sex when the rest of
the world kept quiet. In a successful yet tragic life of 90 years so far, you
can explore her story and celebrate a wonderful woman.
Untouchable
Unfortunately,
there has been a theme with celebrity documentaries this year and it has been
around the sexual
misconduct of those in a position of power. With Harvey Weinstein
at the center of this documentary, it explored more on the Hollywood industry
and the power dynamics that can make key figures somewhat ‘untouchable’.
Homecoming
If
you watched the 2018 Coachella performance by Beyoncé, you’ll know that it was
a magical occasion. What better way to enjoy it again than through the eyes of
the woman herself? In this documentary, Beyoncé was the writer, director, and
executive producer.
Our
Planet
Finally,
the Brit David
Attenborough
is a superstar all around the world for his dulcet tones narrating over some of
the best footage of the animal kingdom that you’re likely to find. This year,
he released Our Planet on Netflix and continues to do great work for the
creatures that can’t speak up for themselves.
