Prepare to immerse yourself in a world of real-life drama, jaw-dropping discoveries, and compelling narratives. As the streaming platform known for its diverse content library, Hulu is home to a range of documentary films offering a glimpse into the human experience like never before.
Here are the most highly rated docs you can stream on Hulu.
The Rescue (2021) – 8.4/10
- Director: Jimmy Chin, Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi
Official synopsis: Experience the gripping true story of The Rescue, as it follows the daring 2018 mission to save 12 boys and their coach from a flooded cave in Northern Thailand. With never-before-seen footage and exclusive interviews, this documentary showcases the high-risk world of cave diving, the courage of the rescuers, and the global unity that saved these young lives.
The Cove (2009) – 8.4/10
- Director: Louie Psihoyos
Official synopsis: Join Richard O’Barry and filmmaker Louie Psihoyos on a daring mission in Japan to expose the cruel treatment of dolphins. Formerly a dolphin trainer for ‘Flipper,’ O’Barry is now a leading advocate against keeping cetaceans in captivity, and together, they aim to reveal the harsh reality these intelligent creatures face in Taiji, Japan.
Imagine Dragons Live in Vegas (2023) – 8.4/10
- Director: Matt Eastin
- Starring: Imagine Dragons, Ben McKee, Daniel Platzman, Dan Reynolds, Wayne Sermon
Official synopsis: Hulu takes you straight to the heart of Vegas with Imagine Dragons’ explosive Mercury Tour. Blended with old interviews, this show offers a look at the band’s chart-topping hits and their entire journey.
Racing Extinction (2015) – 8.2/10
- Director: Louie Psihoyos
Official synopsis: In the thought-provoking documentary Racing Extinction, the Oceanic Preservation Society sheds light on the impending sixth major extinction event known as the Anthropocene or Age of Man. With a mission to expose the two worlds endangering species worldwide, the film unveils the devastating consequences of wildlife trade and the hidden impacts of oil and gas industries.
Derek DelGaudio’s In & Of Itself (2021) – 8.2/10
- Director: Frank Oz
Official synopsis: In this intriguing documentary, renowned storyteller and conceptual magician Derek DelGaudio delves into the elusive concept of identity, aiming to unravel its illusory nature. Through a thought-provoking exploration, he confronts the deceptively simple question, “Who am I?” captivating audiences with his captivating quest to grasp the essence of self.
Collective (2019) – 8.1/10
- Director: Alexander Nanau
Official synopsis: Follow investigative journalists in Collective as they uncover the truth behind Bucharest’s Colectiv club fire. Revealing how widespread health and safety fraud is, the documentary showcases the power of journalism, offering an uncompromising look at its impact on government officials, whistleblowers, and burn victims.
Free Solo (2018) – 8.1/10
- Director: Jimmy Chin, Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi
Official synopsis: Experience the heart-stopping journey of Alex Honnold in Free Solo as he fearlessly attempts the unprecedented: conquering Yosemite’s 3,000-foot El Capitan without ropes or safety gear. Witness the extraordinary feat that redefines rock climbing history.
Andy Irons: Kissed by God (2018) – 8.1/10
- Director: Steve Jones
Official synopsis: Discover the untold story of three-time world champion surfer Andy Irons in this gripping documentary, which unveils the harsh realities of bipolar disorder and opioid addiction. While he was celebrated worldwide for his remarkable success, few knew of the internal struggles that ultimately led to his tragic downfall. As the opioid crisis grips the nation, Andy’s life becomes a powerful testament, shattering myths surrounding these relentless diseases.
Apollo 11 (2019) – 8.1/10
- Director: Todd Douglas Miller
Official synopsis: Step back in time and witness the awe-inspiring Apollo 11 mission in this captivating documentary. Join Commander Neil Armstrong and Pilot Buzz Aldrin on their journey to the moon, a monumental achievement that forever changed humanity’s perception of space exploration.
Summer of Soul (…Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised) (2021) – 8/10
- Director: Questlove
Official synopsis: Rediscover a lost piece of American history in this captivating documentary. Unseen for over 50 years, the Harlem Cultural Festival celebrated African-American music, culture, and unity alongside Woodstock, finally brought to light in all its vibrant glory.
Batman & Bill (2017) – 8/10
- Director: Sheena M. Joyce, Don Argott
Official synopsis: Uncover the untold story of Batman’s creation in this compelling documentary. As one determined author crusades to shed light on the truth, we learn that Bill Finger, the struggling writer, played a pivotal role in shaping the iconic superhero we adore, from the concept to the costume.
Minding the Gap (2018) – 8/10
- Director: Liu Bing
Official synopsis: Embark on an emotional journey in this gripping documentary as three young men forge a bond to break free from their turbulent Rust Belt origins. However, as they navigate the challenges of adulthood, unforeseen revelations put their decade-long friendship to the test, leaving them to confront the very essence of their shared past.
Flee (2021) – 7.9/10
- Director: Jonas Poher Rasmussen
Official synopsis: In this touching documentary, Amin, a former child refugee from Afghanistan, recounts his harrowing past, protected by animated visuals to conceal his identity. As he grapples with a deeply buried secret he kept for over two decades, the film explores the enduring impact of his refugee experience.
Fate of a Sport (2022) – 7.9/10
- Director: Michael Doneger
- Starring: Trevor Baptiste, Chris Bates, Bill Belichick
Official synopsis: Fate of a Sport chronicles Paul and Mike Rabil’s pioneering journey to alter the course of professional sports via the Premier Lacrosse League. Facing challenges from fundraising, player poaching, and legal battles, to a global pandemic, it’s a captivating exploration of endurance and the spirit of sports.
Fly Like a Girl (2020) – 7.8/10
- Director: Katie McEntire Wiatt
- Starring: Nicole Stott, Tammy Duckworth, Abby Harrison
Official synopsis: Hulu’s Fly Like a Girl takes you on an inspiring flight of feminine determination in the world of aviation. Celebrate the journey of girls and women who dare to reach new heights, from toy planes to space shuttles.
Jane (2017) – 7.8/10
- Director: Brett Morgen
Official synopsis: Jane offers a rare insight into the life of the renowned primatology scientist. Unseen footage shows her revolutionary research, her relationship with her husband, and her connection with the chimps she studies.
Jiro Dreams of Sushi (2011) – 7.8/10
- Director: David Gelb
- Starring: Jiro Ono, Yoshikazu Ono, Masuhiro Yamamoto
Official synopsis: Get a taste of the relentless pursuit of sushi perfection with Jiro Ono, the 85-year-old legend behind Tokyo’s prestigious Sukiyabashi Jiro. It’s more than just rice and fish; it’s about a father, a son, and the weight of culinary greatness resting on both their shoulders.
Not Going Quietly (2021) – 7.8/10
- Director: Nicholas Bruckman
Official synopsis: Dive into the inspiring story of Ady Barkan in this Hulu documentary. This 32-year-old father and progressive political star sparks a monumental social movement, despite his ALS diagnosis. Watch him conduct groundbreaking interviews and embark on a cross-country crusade for healthcare justice.
The Beatles: Eight Days a Week – The Touring Years (2016) – 7.8/10
- Director: Ron Howard
- Starring: The Beatles, John Lennon, George Harrison
Official synopsis: Charting the Beatles’ explosive rise to global fame, this documentary delves into their heady concert years, the birth of Beatlemania, and their evolution beyond their fans’ expectations.
Kurt Vonnegut: Unstuck in Time (2022) – 7.8/10
- Directors: Robert B. Weide, Don Argott
- Starring: Linda Bates, John Irving, Jerome Klinkowitz
Official synopsis: Kurt Vonnegut: Unstuck in Time presents a fascinating portrait of renowned author Kurt Vonnegut, woven together by a 25-year friendship with the filmmaker.
Active Measures (2018) – 7.7/10
- Director: Jack Bryan
Official synopsis: Active Measures takes you on a riveting journey into filmmaker Jack Bryan’s exploration of Vladimir Putin’s alleged involvement in a 30-year covert political warfare. Unravel the tangled web of global events and the potential influences behind them.
Zero Days (2016) – 7.7/10
- Director: Alex Gibney
- Starring: David Sanger, Emad Kiyaei, Eric Chien
Official synopsis: Zero Days paints a chilling portrait of cyber warfare, focusing on the Stuxnet malware purportedly designed by American and Israeli forces. As the documentary explores its use against Iran and potential retaliatory threats, it becomes a captivating saga of digital warfare, international intrigue, and the precarious balance of power.
Too Funny to Fail: The Life & Death of The Dana Carvey Show (2017) – 7.7/10
- Director: Josh Greenbaum
- Starring: Dana Carvey, Robert Smigel, Bill Hader
Official synopsis: Too Funny to Fail: The Life & Death of The Dana Carvey Show takes you behind the scenes of the short-lived yet iconic sketch comedy show.
Man on Wire (2008) – 7.7/10
- Director: James Marsh
- Starring: Philippe Petit, Jean François Heckel, Jean-Louis Blondeau
Official synopsis: Philippe Petit’s breathtaking wire dance between the Twin Towers isn’t just a stunt, but a story of ambition, friendship, and sheer will. Man on Wire gives you a front-row seat to his unimaginable feat and the mark it left on those who lived it with him.
Crock of Gold: A Few Rounds with Shane MacGowan (2020) – 7.6/10
- Director: Julien Temple
- Starring: Shane MacGowan, The Pogues, Siobhan MacGowan
Official synopsis: Crock of Gold: A Few Rounds with Shane MacGowan delves into the life of the iconic singer-songwriter of the Pogues. Enjoy a deep dive into his world, marked by unseen archival footage and vibrant animation.
The 20 Best Crime Movies of All Time: Criminal Masterpieces That Will Steal Your Heart and Leave You Begging for More
Calling all crime flick lovers! Prepare for an adrenaline-fueled journey into the world of heists, mobsters, and high-stakes action. With countless crime films to choose from, I’ve curated a list of the top 20 that will leave you captivated and craving more. From the classics to hidden gems, these movies will keep you on the edge of your seat. Grab your popcorn and let’s embark on a thrilling adventure through the criminal underworld together!
The 20 Best War Movies of All Time: Epic Tales of Bravery and Sacrifice
Prepare for an emotional rollercoaster as we delve into the captivating world of war movies. From tales of bravery to heartbreaking sacrifices, these films will leave you both drained and inspired. We’re ready to present you with the 20 greatest war movies that have stood the test of time. Grab your popcorn and maybe some tissues and get ready to experience these powerful stories.
The 20 Best Thriller Movies Ever Made: Heart-Stopping Must-See Films
Attention, movie buffs! Get ready for an adrenaline-fueled, pulse-pounding cinematic ride! Brace yourself for the top 20 thrillers of all time, featuring unforgettable moments like Batman vs. the Joker, the captivating non-linear storytelling of Pulp Fiction, and the iconic shower scene from Psycho. Buckle up, grab your popcorn, and prepare for a suspenseful journey through movie history. Let the thrills begin!
