There’s something really captivating about watching a true story play out in front of you. Unlike a fictional narrative, documentaries don’t have neatly tied-up endings, and there is no guarantee of what’s to come. In summation: they feel like a more accurate representation of what the world is capable of: good and evil, nurturing and abandoning. Often, a documentary provides a way to dive deep into a story that hasn’t been fully explored previously, maybe even to get answers to long-existing questions once and for all. Here, we present some of the best documentaries on Prime Video, with options for all interest groups, from the typical true crime to the exploration of a long-forgotten band to girl power.
For more recommendations, check out our list of thebest movies on Prime Video,documentaries on Netflix, ordocumentaries on Hulu.
Disclaimer: These titles are available on US Prime Video.
Editor’s note: This article was updated November 2024 to include Hot Potato: The Story of the Wiggles.
‘Hot Potato: The Story of the Wiggles’ (2023)
Rotten Tomatoes: 100% | IMDb: 8.0/10
Hot Potato: The Story of the Wiggles
Directed bySally Aitken,Hot Potato: The Story of the Wigglesis a biographical music documentary that chronicles the story of the Australian children’s music group,The Wiggles. The film recounts how the group started with four friends —Anthony Field,Murray Cook,Greg Page, andJeff Fatt— who recorded a one-off album in the early 1990s. Against all odds, they became a global music phenomenon that has inspired multiple generations of children.Hot Potato: The Story of the Wigglespremiered in October 2023and has earned near-universal acclaim from critics and fans. Presenting a comprehensive look at the group’s origins and evolution over the decades, the documentary film delivers a healthy dose of nostalgia for longtime fans of the group and a wholesome, inspiring experience for those who may not be familiar with them. Tasteful and heartwarming,Hot Potatois a fascinating peek behind the scenes of what may just be the single most successful children’s music act in history.
Watch on Prime Video
‘I Am: Celine Dion’ (2024)
Rotten Tomatoes: 100% | IMDb: 7.9/10
I Am: Celine Dion
Canadian balladeerCeline Dionis a titan of vocals who can’t be tied down to one genre, andI Am: Celine Dionis a documentary that dives head-first into her life to explore her legacy, her process, and her struggle with a neurological disease. Dion gives fans a view into her recording sessions and a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the meticulousness that goes into planning her spectacular shows. These high highs are contrasted with a raw and vulnerable look into the hidden struggles she goes through while managing her Stiff-Person Syndrome. This film is both a celebration of her career and an inspirational reminder that one’s passions can help one through their darkest times.
‘Lucy and Desi’ (2022)
Rotten Tomatoes: 94% | IMDb: 7.7/10
Lucy and Desi
Capturing the highs and the lows of the lives of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz,Lucy and Desiis a documentary done with care byAmy Poehler. Starting from their early days as a new couple in Hollywood through the height and crazy ofI Love Lucyto the end of their lives, the documentary is an honest look at one of TV’s favorite couples. From their own personal struggles to the struggles they faced in the industry, particularly Desi as a Cuban living in America,Lucy and Desinever leans into sensationalism or melodramatics, instead it relies on the star power of its subjects to propel the doc forward. With audio clips directly from Lucy and Desi, it’s an intimate look at their lives, one that humanizes them beyond their television personas. For lovers of Lucy and Desi, this is a can’t miss. — Therese Lacson
‘Judy Blume Forever’ (2023)
Rotten Tomatoes: 95% | IMDb: 7.7/10
Judy Blume Forever
Judy Blume Foreveris an ode to the author who broke the rules and empowered generations of young people. The documentary features interviews with fans as well as the trailblazer herself as she reflects on her journey. Captured by directorsDavina PardoandLeah Wolchok, the film honors the way Blume’s books allowed readers to explore concepts of sexuality, adolescence, and change without shying away from criticism and censorship.Judy Blume Foreverwelcomes celebrities likeMolly Ringwald,Samantha Bee, andLena Dunhamto share the impact a single prolific novelist has had on their lives, careers, and understanding of themselves.– Yael Tygiel
Watch on Prime Video\
‘Wildcat’ (2022)
Rotten Tomatoes: 92% | IMDb: 8.7/10
Directed by Ethan Hawke and starring his daughter Maya Hawke, Wildcat is based on the true story of Southern Gothic writer Flannery O’Connor as she is diagnosed with lupus. While struggling to come to terms with her condition, she sets out to make a mark in the writing world before her life is taken by the same illness that killed her father.
Wildcatis a raw journey into the Amazon directed byTrevor FrostandMelissa Lesh. After being medically discharged,Harry Turner, a young English veteran, travels to a remote and scenic area in an attempt to rest, recharge, and recover from PTSD. While exploring the Amazon jungle, Turner meets scientistSamantha Zwickerand a baby ocelot who changes his life.Wildcatis more than a nature documentary, as it explores the interconnectivity of the planet. With a riveting story, gorgeous landscapes, and tons of cat content,Wildcatis a beautifully inspiring and touching film about healing. – Yael Tygiel
‘The Sound of 007’ (2022)
Rotten Tomatoes: 78% | IMDb: 7.4/10
The Sound of 007
Revolving around an iconic franchise like theJames Bondseries,The Sound of 007allows filmmakerMat Whitecrossto explore the history behind some of the most memorable movie theme songs.The Sound of 007is a journey for the senses, traveling through generations of music, beginning with the genesis ofDr. No’s unforgettable theme from the 1962 film. Featuring interviews from actors of the franchise, includingDaniel Craig,The Sound of 007also shines a spotlight onNo Time To Die’s Academy Award-winning song from modern music mavenBillie Eilish.– Yael Tygiel
‘Good Night Oppy’ (2022)
Rotten Tomatoes: 87% | IMDb: 7.7/10
Good Night Oppy
Angela Bassett(Black Panther: Wakanda Forever) narratesGood Night Oppy, the documentary film fromRyan Whitethat reveals an incredible true story of strength, smarts, and convictions.Good Night Oppyspends time with NASA engineers and scientists as they create the adorable exploration rover named Opportunity, which was sent on a three-month mission to Mars, only to survive for 15 years. Featuring interviews with NASA employees, as well as footage from the original mission,Good Night Oppydives into the far reaches of our solar system with an uplifting message and exciting adventure.– Yael Tygiel
‘Dior and I’ (2014)
Rotten Tomatoes: 84% | IMDb: 7.2/10
Dior and I
Following the creation of Raf Simons’ first haute couture collection as the new artistic director at the iconic brand,Dior and Ishows both the challenges and triumphs of working in the fascinating, high-pressure world of high fashion. In addition to giving us an exclusive look at truly breathtaking designs, the documentary allows us to meet the people who make it all possible. Runway fans are sure to be instantly captivated by the portrait of Simons and his team as well as insight into the traditions of this unique business. – Taylor Gates
‘Generation Wealth’ (2018)
Rotten Tomatoes: 46% | IMDb: 6.6/10
Generation Wealth
Generation Wealthhad the prestigious honor of being the opening night documentary at the 2018 Sundance Film Festival – and for good reason. It explores an age-old question that we all still struggle to answer: Can money buy happiness? The general consensus is, of course, no, but it’s much more complicated than that, and this documentary shows it. Behind all of the glitz and glamour, there’s a bleak, melancholic tone that pervades. Come for the luxury – the designer clothes, mansions, and jets – and stay for the riveting character study of the world’s ultra-wealthy.- Taylor Gates
‘Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father’ (2008)
Rotten Tomatoes: 94% | IMDb: 8.5/10
Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father
Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father is a documentary directed by Kurt Kuenne that centers on the life and death of Dr. Andrew Bagby. The film serves as a poignant tribute and a message to Bagby’s son, chronicling the emotional journey of family and friends grappling with loss. This documentary combines personal narrative with a broader exploration of justice and tragedy.
A gut-wrenching story that tries to offer a man’s son the opportunity to discover who his dad was after his brutal murder. FilmmakerKurt Kuennedocuments the life of his best friend, Andrew Bagby, after his murder, trying to piece together the clues that lead to his death while also celebrating Andrew’s life.Dear Zacharyis beloved among the true-crime documentary community for being honest, heart-felt, infuriating, and devastating. Kuenne scrapbooks Andrew’s life in a way that only a best friend can, and the documentary eventually pushed a lawmaker to introduce “Zachary’s Bill” to the Parliament of Canada, helping to protect children in bail hearings and custody disputes. For those interested in true crime, this one can not be missed. Available through Amazon Prime subscription. —Therese Lacson
