How Many Can Your Watch on Netflix?

Documentaries in 2025 redefined storytelling, delving deep into gripping real-life tales and shedding new light on social issues like never before. The year’s lineup so far has offered something for every curious mind — from riveting true crime stories to inspiring journeys and groundbreaking pop culture pivots. With such a rich variety, documentary lovers are truly spoiled for choice. But perhaps the most exciting part is how many of these are available to watch on Netflix. 

The most talked-about documentaries of 2025 captured hearts and minds, but are they all streaming on the streaming giant? The answer to this question is a tad complicated

Life After

Life After explores the influential right-to-die case of Elizabeth Bouvia through the eyes of documentarian Reid Davenport. Revisiting the landmark moment from over 40 years ago, the film highlights how care for patients like Bouvia has seen little progress. It examines the contentious and enduring debate surrounding the right to die in specific medical scenarios. This documentary challenges viewers to rethink ethical and systematic frameworks that, by its account, remain deeply flawed.

Is it available on Netflix? No. It can be viewed on the Sundance App instead.

Step inside the life of a music legend with an intimate, unfiltered look at his journey with the next title.

Billy Joel: And So It Goes

This two-part docuseries paints an all-encompassing portrait of Billy Joel, famously known as the Piano Man. Directed by Susan Lacy and Jessica Levin, it follows the Grammy-winning artist, boasting a multimillion-dollar fortune in 2025, from his childhood through his rise to global fame. Clocking in at about five hours, the production offers an intimate, unfiltered look at Joel’s complex on and off-stage life and his enduring legacy in music. For fans of heartfelt biographies and music history, this is a must-watch.

Is it available on Netflix? Yet again, no. It is available on HBO Max.

Pavements

Filmmaker Alex Ross Perry takes viewers on a wild, unconventional ride through his 90s indie rock scene with Pavements. This feature interestingly blurs the line between biography and surrealism, creating a faux biopic style that mirrors the eccentricity of the band itself. It is an adventurous and weird take that indie music fans would not want to miss.

Is it available on Netflix? Nope, Mubi is the destination this time.

Pee Wee as Himself

Pee Wee as Himself is a deeply emotional tribute to Paul Reubens, the comedian behind the eponymous children’s TV program. Filmmaker Matt Wolf spent over 40 hours with Reubens before his passing in July 2023, tapping the complex layers of his career and personal dilemmas. The documentary combines empathy and journalistic integrity, offering a heartfelt look at one of television’s most beloved and controversial characters.

Find it on HBO Max.

America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders (season 2)

The series continues to spotlight the stories of Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, highlighting the challenges female athletes face, including underpayment. Directed by Grey Whiteley, known for his work on Last Chance U and Cheer, America’s Sweethearts 2 has earned acclaim for its honest portrayal of sports culture and gender inequality. The series not only entertains but also inspires conversations about fairness and recognition in sports.

Where to watch: Netflix.

One to One: John & Yoko

Focusing on John Lennon’s life from 1971 to 1973, One to One: John & Yoko captures the period when Lennon and Yoko Ono lived in New York. The documentary expertly highlights the former’s only solo performance amid a politically charged American period and features reflections on his music and activism. As noted in several reviews, this film offers a chance to reassess one of the 20th century’s most influential and enigmatic artists.

Available on Netflix? No. Find it on Apple TV+ instead.

Sly Lives! (aka The Burden of Black Genius)

Following the Oscar-winning documentary Summer of Soul, the director and Roots drummer, Ahmir K. Thompson, returned with a deep look into Sly and the Family Stone. Sly Lives celebrates the efforts of those who fought to unite colored and white musicians during a turbulent time in the United States. Featuring interviews with Andre 3000, Clive Davis, Nile Rodgers, and Chaka Khan, it honors a groundbreaking artist who transformed music and culture.

Where to watch? On Hulu or Disney+.

Science and obsession collide in the following tale of one man’s quest to push the boundaries of human possibility.

Don’t Die: The Man Who Wants to Live Forever

The story tells the fascinating tale of multibillionaire Bryan Johnson, who is attempting to reverse aging using his elaborate fortune. Directed by Chris Smith, the documentary explores themes of mortality, science, and obsession with forever staying young. While some may view Johnson as a controversial figure, the film provides an intriguing portrait of human desire for achieving the unachievable and the limits of technology.

Watch on Netflix.

Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey

From the creators of My Octopus Teacher, Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey follows one of the world’s most endangered mammals. The documentary captures the rescue and rehabilitation of a pangolin named Kulu, highlighting the wildlife conservation efforts and the pressing need to protect vulnerable species. Its intimate storytelling and stunning visuals make it a must-watch for nature enthusiasts.

Available to watch on Netflix.

SNL 50: Beyond Saturday Night

SNL 50: Beyond Saturday Night offers an inside look at the iconic comedy show through stories told by the comedians themselves. Unlike dramatized accounts, this four-part series provides genuine behind-the-scenes insights into Saturday Night Live’s greatest sketches and moments. It is nostalgic and informative at the same time and has the potential to become an absolute delight for the fans of late-night television, currently under fire from Donald Trump.

Watch it on Peacock and Apple TV.

Seeds

Winner of the Grand Jury Prize at the 2025 Sundance Festival, Seeds is Brittany Shyne’s directorial debut, focusing on Black farmers in the South of America. The documentary highlights their struggles for fair treatment and better working conditions in a system that often overlooks them. Seeds is a powerful exploration of resilience and social justice in agriculture.

Can be watched on the Sundance Film Festival platform.

Thank You Very Much

Produced by Sadie Brothers, Thank You Very Much explores the unconventional career of comedian Andy Kaufman, a pioneer of cringe comedy. The documentary features testimonials from Steve Martin, Lorne Michaels, Robin Williams, and more, painting a bizarrely heartfelt picture of Kaufman’s influential legacy in comedy.

Watch on Apple TV.

Becoming Led Zeppelin

Becoming Led Zeppelin offers an unprecedented look at the legendary rock band featuring the surviving members themselves for the first time. The documentary includes archival interviews and performances tracing the band’s formation and rise to fame. This is a must-watch for music fans once again.

Available on Netflix: Yes.

2025’s documentary trove so far has been rich with stories that provoke thought, prompt action, and entertain. Whether one is interested in music legends, personal journeys, social justice, or more, these films offer something valuable for everyone.

Which of the documentaries will be your immediate pick? Let us know in the comments!