With its latest batch of additions, Hulu further cements its place as the go-to home for challenging, enlightening documentaries with something for everyone. Included in a slate that focuses on animal rights, food production, the history of American imperialism, and intimate personal narratives are several critically lauded features. Read on for our list of the best documentaries on Hulu right now. special attention to their distinctive themes, critical reception, and the lasting impressions they’ve made on audiences.
One of the climatic and game-changing documentaries was the Academy Award winner The Cove, directed by Louie Psihoyos. This extraordinary documentary shines a light on shocking, never-before-seen footage of dolphin hunting in Taiji, Japan. It has become an important cornerstone in the fight for animal rights. Philip Glass’s musical score adds to the emotional depth of the film’s gruesome imagery. Indeed, critics have issued the complaint that “The Cove” uses images that are so disturbing you don’t know how to respond. Entertainment Weekly (EW) gave it a B+ grade, testifying to its dramatic storytelling and large effect.
Food, Inc.’s sequel “Food, Inc. 2” is the film’s second act Death Star used to generate buzz just like the original, released 15 years prior. This follow-up returns to the themes of industrial agriculture, food safety, and the ethical implications of food production. The continued importance of these issues today, seven years later, further emphasizes the documentary’s long-term impact on public discussion around food systems.
Compelling Narratives in Film
Another equally moving documentary, “Fire of Love,” directed by Sara Dosa, is streaming on Hulu now. With its impressive EW grade of A–, this film captures the passionate lives of volcanologists Katia and Maurice Krafft, who dedicated their lives to studying volcanic eruptions. Their story unfolds against incredible imagery that captures both the breathtaking beauty and harsh peril of nature.
“Minding the Gap,” directed by Bing Liu, is on the same path, earning a first-quarter A– from EW. This documentary explores the lives of three young men navigating adulthood while reflecting on their shared experiences as skateboarders in Rockford, Illinois. By connecting individual experiences to larger social realities, Liu creates a poignant analysis of youth culture.
Plus, “The Mystery of D.B. Cooper” explores one of America’s greatest unsolved mysteries. Through interviews and archival footage, this true crime documentary seeks to unravel the enigma surrounding D.B. Cooper’s infamous hijacking and disappearance.
Cultural Reflections and Personal Stories
“Summer of Soul (…or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised)” is another standout documentary that reflects on cultural history. It dives deep into the history behind the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival. The event featured performances from legendary artists and is deeply important to Black cultural history. Critics have praised it for capturing the spirit of the era, with one reviewer noting, “The interviews are their own historical document, though it’s the visceral thrill of being inside all those archival clips — the flick of Simone’s wrist, an ecstatic face in the crowd — that makes Summer of Soul come most fully alive.”
“Pretty Baby: Brooke Shields” allows the actress and model to reclaim her narrative through a documentary series that examines her life in the public eye. It focuses on her struggles and triumphs but uses her story to speak more broadly about issues of childhood fame and personal agency.
“Brats” examines a watershed era in Hollywood from the perspective of the children who lived it. Through this documentary, we hope to unpack these complicated dynamics around fame and success in real time with the new paradigm of entertainment on the rise.
Critical Acclaim and Audience Impact
Hulu’s original documentaries are some of the most timely and impactful in the world, keeping audiences both entertained and informed while igniting conversations around important issues. So, for example, Ask Dr. Ruth, directed by Ryan White, earned an EW grade of B. Dr. Ruth Westheimer’s incredible life story leads her to become a sex therapist and cultural phenomenon. Her fearless explorations of sexuality and relationships continue to challenge, inspire, and entertain audiences around the globe.
Critics have remarked on the importance of these films in shaping public understanding of various social issues. One critic noted that “What makes it more than just ghoulish voyeurism is how it paints a surprisingly rich character study of a young man and the obsession that drives him,” highlighting how documentaries can transcend mere documentation to present deeper narratives.
Kevin Jacobsen, a notable critic, has highlighted “The Cove” with impactful statements: “Its images of blood in the water are worth a thousand preachy words,” he said, emphasizing the film’s ability to communicate urgency about animal rights without relying solely on dialogue. He went on to ask, “Are some animals simply too precious and delicate to be exterminated? This underscores a primary ethical conundrum underlying wildlife conservation.
