Looking for something to watch on Amazon Prime? Why not check out some of the best documentaries available on the platform? With a wide range of topics and styles to choose from, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re interested in true crime, history, politics, or nature, Amazon Prime has a documentary that will pique your interest. From award-winning films like Time and My Octopus Teacher to lesser-known gems like The Sound of 007 and Wildcat, there’s no shortage of quality content to explore. So why not take some time to expand your horizons and learn something new?
Understanding Amazon Prime Documentaries
If you are a fan of documentaries, then Amazon Prime Video is a great streaming service to have. With a wide range of documentaries available, you are sure to find something that piques your interest. In this section, we will help you understand what Amazon Prime Documentaries are and what makes them unique.
Amazon Prime Documentaries are documentaries that are available to stream on Amazon Prime Video. These documentaries cover a wide range of topics, from historical events to personal journeys, and from political to socio-economical subjects. Amazon Prime Video has a vast collection of documentaries, and new ones are added regularly.
One of the unique features of Amazon Prime Documentaries is that they are included in your Amazon Prime subscription. This means that you don’t have to pay extra to watch them. You can simply log in to your Amazon Prime Video account and start streaming.
Another great feature of Amazon Prime Documentaries is that they are available to stream in high definition. This means that you can enjoy stunning visuals and crisp audio while watching your favorite documentaries.
Amazon Prime Video also offers a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to find the documentaries you want to watch. You can browse by category, search for specific titles, or use the recommendations feature to discover new documentaries that you might enjoy.
In conclusion, Amazon Prime Documentaries are a great way to explore a wide range of topics and learn something new. With a vast collection of documentaries available, a user-friendly interface, and the convenience of being included in your Amazon Prime subscription, there’s never been a better time to start watching.
Top Rated Documentaries on Amazon Prime
When it comes to documentaries, Amazon Prime has a great selection of films that cover a wide range of topics. Here are some of the top-rated documentaries available on Amazon Prime that you should definitely check out:
- Val: This documentary follows the life and career of Val Kilmer, the actor known for his roles in movies like Top Gun and Batman Forever. The film provides an intimate look at Kilmer’s life, including his battle with throat cancer.
- Dear Zachary: This heart-wrenching documentary tells the story of a man who was murdered and the son he left behind. The film is a tribute to the victim and a call to action for change in the legal system.
- Dior and I: This documentary goes behind the scenes at the iconic fashion house of Dior as new creative director Raf Simons prepares his first collection. The film offers an intimate look at the fashion industry and the creative process.
- Lucy and Desi: This documentary explores the lives of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, the stars of the classic TV show I Love Lucy. The film delves into their tumultuous marriage and their impact on television history.
- Wildcat: This documentary tells the story of a group of oil rig workers who are stranded in the middle of the desert after their plane crashes. The film is a gripping survival story that explores themes of isolation and desperation.
- The Band: This documentary follows the legendary rock group The Band as they tour and record their final album. The film features interviews with the band members and performances of their classic songs.
- The Queen of Versailles: This documentary tells the story of a wealthy couple who set out to build the largest house in America, only to be hit by the 2008 financial crisis. The film is a fascinating look at the excesses of the super-rich.
- Good Night Oppy: This documentary tells the story of the Mars Opportunity Rover, which spent 15 years exploring the surface of the red planet. The film is a tribute to the rover and the people who made its mission possible.
- I Am Not Your Negro: This powerful documentary explores the life and work of writer James Baldwin, and his reflections on the history of racism in America. The film is a must-watch for anyone interested in the civil rights movement.
- Gimme Danger: This documentary tells the story of the influential rock band The Stooges, led by frontman Iggy Pop. The film features interviews with the band members and rare footage of their performances.
- Gleason: This documentary follows former NFL player Steve Gleason as he battles ALS, a terminal disease. The film is a moving tribute to Gleason’s courage and determination.
- The Imposter: This gripping documentary tells the story of a young man who poses as a missing child, and the family who welcomes him into their home. The film is a chilling exploration of deception and identity.
- One Child Nation: This documentary explores China’s one-child policy and its impact on families and society. The film is a powerful indictment of government control and the human cost of authoritarianism.
- A Man Named Scott: This documentary tells the story of Scott Jones, a gay man who was brutally attacked and left paralyzed. The film is a tribute to Jones’ resilience and his fight for justice.
- Lorena: This documentary explores the infamous case of Lorena Bobbitt, who was accused of cutting off her husband’s penis. The film is a fascinating look at the media circus that surrounded the case and its impact on the national conversation about domestic violence.
- Opportunity: This documentary tells the story of the Mars Opportunity Rover and its mission to explore the red planet. The film is a tribute to the rover and the people who made its mission possible.
- The Booksellers: This documentary explores the world of rare book dealers and collectors. The film is a fascinating look at the history of books and the people who are passionate about preserving them.
- Burning: This documentary tells the story of a young man who is accused of setting fire to a store, and the complex web of relationships that led to his arrest. The film is a gripping exploration of justice and the human cost of suspicion.
- Author: The JT LeRoy Story: This documentary explores the life and work of writer JT LeRoy, who was revealed to be a fictitious persona created by author Laura Albert. The film is a fascinating look at the power of storytelling and the blurred lines between fact and fiction.
- Citizenfour: This documentary tells the story of Edward Snowden, the former National Security Agency contractor who leaked classified information about government surveillance programs. The film is a powerful indictment of government secrecy and the erosion of civil liberties.
- Generation Wealth: This documentary explores the culture of wealth and excess in America, and its impact on society
Exploring Different Genres of Documentaries
When it comes to documentaries on Amazon Prime, there is a wide range of genres to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for a personal journey, a true crime investigation, or a deep dive into the political landscape, there is something for everyone.
If you’re interested in exploring true crime, you might want to check out “The Murder of Laci Peterson” or “The Confession Tapes.” Both of these documentaries examine the criminal justice system and the impact it has on those involved.
For those interested in exploring the civil rights movement, “I Am Not Your Negro” is a powerful documentary that examines race relations in America. “13th” is another documentary that explores the intersection of race and the criminal justice system, specifically the impact of the 13th Amendment on the African American community.
If you’re looking for a personal journey, “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” is a heartwarming documentary about the life and legacy of Fred Rogers, the creator of “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.” On the other hand, “Free Solo” is a thrilling documentary that follows climber Alex Honnold as he attempts to climb El Capitan without any ropes or safety equipment.
“RBG” is a documentary that explores the life and career of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, while “Blackfish” examines the treatment of killer whales in captivity. If you’re interested in exploring the impact of climate change, “Chasing Coral” is a documentary that examines the effects of climate change on coral reefs.
Overall, Amazon Prime has a diverse selection of documentaries that cover a range of topics and genres. Whether you’re interested in true crime, personal journeys, or political investigations, there is something for everyone.
Influential Figures in Documentaries
When it comes to documentaries, the people behind the camera can be just as important as the subjects in front of it. Here are some influential figures in the world of documentaries that have made their mark on the industry.
- Martin Scorsese: Known for his work in Hollywood, Scorsese has also made a name for himself in the documentary world. His film “The Last Waltz” is considered one of the greatest concert films of all time, and his recent film “Rolling Thunder Revue: A Bob Dylan Story” received critical acclaim.
- Laura Poitras: Poitras is a documentary filmmaker and journalist who gained international recognition for her work on the Edward Snowden story. Her film “Citizenfour” won an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 2015.
- James Baldwin: Baldwin was an American novelist, playwright, and activist who is known for his work on racial and social justice issues. His work has been the subject of several documentaries, including “I Am Not Your Negro” and “James Baldwin: The Price of the Ticket.”
- Garrett Bradley: Bradley is a filmmaker and visual artist who is known for her work on issues related to race, class, and gender. Her film “Time” won the Directing Award at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival.
- Angela Bassett: While known primarily as an actress, Bassett has also made a name for herself in the documentary world. She served as the executive producer on the documentary “The Black List: Volume One,” which features interviews with prominent African Americans.
- Melissa Lesh: Lesh is a producer and director who has worked on several documentaries, including “The Last Race” and “Racing Dreams.” She is known for her work on films related to motorsports.
- Val Kilmer: Kilmer is an actor and filmmaker who has worked on several documentaries, including “Val,” which chronicles his life and career.
- Iggy Pop and The Stooges: The Stooges were a pioneering punk rock band in the 1960s and 1970s. Several documentaries have been made about the band, including “Gimme Danger,” which was directed by Jim Jarmusch and features interviews with Iggy Pop and other members of the band.
- Steve Gleason: Gleason is a former NFL player who was diagnosed with ALS in 2011. His journey is chronicled in the documentary “Gleason,” which was directed by Clay Tweel.
- Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr.: These two civil rights leaders have been the subject of several documentaries, including “Malcolm X: Make It Plain” and “King in the Wilderness.”
These are just a few of the many influential figures in the world of documentaries. Each of them has made their mark in their own unique way, and their contributions have helped shape the industry into what it is today.
Documentaries – A Cinematic Scrapbook
When it comes to documentaries, Amazon Prime has a vast selection of thought-provoking and entertaining films that cover a range of topics. From social issues to music and everything in between, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the best documentaries available on Amazon Prime that are worth your time.
One of the most intriguing documentaries available on Amazon Prime is “All That Perishes at the Edge of Land” by Davina Pardo. This documentary explores the history of a remote island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and the people who have lived there for generations. The film is beautifully shot and provides a fascinating insight into a way of life that is rapidly disappearing.
Another must-see documentary is “Very Semi-Serious” by Leah Wolchok. This film takes a behind-the-scenes look at the New Yorker’s famous cartoon department and the artists who create the iconic cartoons that have been a part of the magazine for decades. The film is both funny and insightful and provides a glimpse into the creative process of some of the most talented cartoonists in the world.
If you’re looking for something a little more lighthearted, “Jasper Mall” is a great choice. This documentary follows the lives of the people who work and shop at a dying mall in Alabama. The film is a poignant reminder of the changing face of America’s retail landscape and the impact it has on the people who live and work there.
For music fans, “The Last Waltz” is a must-watch documentary. Directed by Martin Scorsese, the film documents the final concert of The Band, which took place on Thanksgiving Day in 1976. The film features performances by some of the biggest names in music, including Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, and Neil Young, and is widely regarded as one of the best concert films ever made.
Finally, “1%” is a fascinating documentary that explores the world of professional motorcycle racing. The film follows a group of elite riders as they compete in the most dangerous and challenging races in the world, including the Isle of Man TT. The film is a thrilling ride from start to finish and provides a unique insight into a world that most of us will never experience.
In conclusion, Amazon Prime has an impressive selection of documentaries that cover a range of topics and interests. Whether you’re looking for something serious or lighthearted, there is something for everyone. So, grab some popcorn and settle in for a cinematic journey that will leave you both entertained and informed.
Comparing Amazon Prime Documentaries with Other Platforms
When it comes to streaming documentaries, Amazon Prime Video is just one of many platforms available to you. Here’s how it compares to some of the other popular documentary streaming services:
Netflix
Netflix is perhaps Amazon Prime Video’s biggest competitor in the streaming space. While both platforms offer a wide variety of documentaries, Netflix tends to focus more on original content and exclusive releases. However, Amazon Prime Video has a larger library overall, which means you may have more options to choose from.
Free Streaming Services
There are several free streaming services out there that offer documentaries, but the quality and selection can vary widely. While it’s always nice to save money, keep in mind that you may have to sacrifice some quality or variety if you choose a free option.
Hulu
Hulu is another popular streaming service that offers a mix of original content and licensed programming. When it comes to documentaries, Hulu tends to focus more on celebrity biopics and entertainment insiders. If that’s your cup of tea, then Hulu may be a good choice for you.
Disney+
Disney+ is a newer streaming service that focuses primarily on family-friendly content. While they don’t have a huge selection of documentaries, they do offer some high-quality nature and science documentaries that are perfect for kids and families.
Australia
If you’re located in Australia, you may have access to different streaming services than those available in other parts of the world. Some of the most popular documentary streaming services in Australia include DocPlay, Stan, and Foxtel Now.
Overall, Amazon Prime Video is a solid choice for streaming documentaries, especially if you’re looking for a wide variety of options. However, depending on your specific interests and preferences, you may find that another streaming service is a better fit for you.
The Impact of Documentaries
Documentaries have the power to educate, inform, and inspire people in ways that other forms of media cannot. They can shine a light on important social issues, bring attention to underrepresented voices, and provide a platform for discussion and change. In this section, we will explore the impact that documentaries can have on individuals and society as a whole.
One of the most significant impacts of documentaries is their ability to create change. For example, the documentary “One Child Nation” sheds light on China’s one-child policy and the devastating effects it had on families and communities. The film sparked a conversation about reproductive rights and led to increased awareness and advocacy for women’s reproductive health.
Another powerful documentary is “Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father.” This film tells the story of a man who was murdered by his ex-girlfriend, and the impact it had on his family and friends. The film led to changes in Canadian law and sparked a conversation about domestic violence and the need for better legal protections for victims.
Documentaries can also provide a platform for underrepresented voices. For example, the film “I Am Not Your Negro” explores the life and work of writer James Baldwin and his experiences as a black man in America. The film provides a space for Baldwin’s voice to be heard and for his ideas to be discussed and analyzed.
Finally, documentaries can provide a window into different cultures and ways of life. For example, the film “Burning” explores the lives of young people in South Korea and the challenges they face in a rapidly changing society. The film provides a glimpse into a world that many viewers may not be familiar with, and encourages empathy and understanding.
Overall, documentaries have the power to educate, inform, and inspire people in ways that other forms of media cannot. They can create change, provide a platform for underrepresented voices, and offer a window into different cultures and ways of life. As such, they are an important tool for promoting social justice and building a better world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Amazon Prime offers a wide variety of documentaries that cater to different interests. Whether you’re looking for thought-provoking social commentary, gripping true crime stories, or fascinating explorations of science and nature, you’re sure to find something that piques your interest.
One of the best things about Amazon Prime’s documentary selection is the range of perspectives and styles on display. From intimate character studies to sweeping historical epics, there’s something for everyone. Additionally, many of the documentaries on Amazon Prime have received critical acclaim, with high ratings on Rotten Tomatoes and other review sites.
When it comes to choosing which documentaries to watch, it can be helpful to read reviews and recommendations from trusted sources. The search results above provide a good starting point, but don’t be afraid to branch out and discover new documentaries on your own.
Overall, Amazon Prime’s documentary selection is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the world around them. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find something that educates, entertains, and enlightens you.