20 Best Documentaries on Peacock in 2024

Watch the 20 best documentaries on Peacock, whether you’re drawn to uncovering historical truths, exploring wild nature, or understanding complex societal issues, these documentaries promise a journey through a myriad of themes and narratives.

By using a premium VPN like ExpressVPN I accessed the Peacock TV outside US and became the part of the audience, experiencing the world through the eyes of acclaimed filmmakers and storytellers, all from the comfort of my home. For fans of real-life stories that astonish, educate, and inspire, the allure of delving into the 20 best documentaries on Peacock 2024 is now within reach.

List of the 20 Best Documentaries on Peacock

This list of the 20 best documentaries on Peacock is your gateway to unparalleled storytelling, featuring a diverse array of subjects that promise to enlighten, challenge, and entertain. Whether you’re a documentary aficionado or new to the genre, these best binge-worthy documentaries on Peacock are poised to deliver memorable viewing experiences.

Not to mention, from serial killer documentaries on Peacock to new documentaries on Peacock, you can access all with the help of the best Peacock VPN outside USA, ensuring seamless streaming.

Downwind (2023)

• Genre: Documentary/History
• Cast:  Lewis Black, Mary Dickson, Michael Douglas
• Creator: Douglas Brian Miller, Mark Shapiro
• No of Seasons: 1 (Feature-length film)
• Release Date: 2023
• IMDb Rating: 6.9/10

Downwind (2023) exposes the dark side of America’s nuclear testing program. It focuses on the “downwinders,” residents exposed to radioactive fallout from 928 weapons detonated in Nevada between 1951 and 1992.

The documentary explores the link between this exposure and clusters of illnesses like cancer and leukemia, while criticizing the government’s neglect of these victims. Through personal stories and historical context, Downwind aims to raise awareness about the human cost of nuclear testing.

Hoop Dreams (1994)

• Genre: Documentary/Sports
• Cast: William Gates, Arthur Agee
• Creator: Steve James
• No of Seasons: 1 (Feature-length film)
• Release Date: 1994
• IMDb Rating: 8.3/10

Hoop Dreams is a profound documentary that follows the lives of two Chicago high school students, Arthur Agee and William Gates, who dream of becoming professional basketball players. What makes Hoop Dreams stand out is its deep emotional core, focusing on the young men’s lives both on and off the court.

This documentary is essential viewing for anyone who appreciates stories of perseverance and the complex layers of chasing a dream. Its inclusion in the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress in 2005 underscores its cultural significance.

Hardball: The Girls Of Summer (2019)

• Genre: Documentary/Sports
• Cast: Kelsie Whitmore, Stacy Piagno
• Creator: Matthew C. Temple
• No of Seasons: 1 (Feature-length film)
• Release Date: 2019
• IMDb Rating: 7.7/10

When you’re browsing Peacock documentaries 2024, don’t miss the chance to witness the groundbreaking “Hardball: The Girls Of Summer.” This 2019 gem focuses on the top female baseball players in the United States who are competing in the Women’s Baseball World Cup, and it’s a stirring narrative that champions gender equality in the world of baseball.

With the legendary Francis Ford Coppola leaving his mark on the documentary, “Hardball” is an essential watch for sports enthusiasts and advocates for equality alike.

Dr. Death: Cutthroat Conman (2023)

• Genre: Documentary/Crime
• Cast: Paolo Macchiarini
• Creator: John Pappas
• No of Seasons: 1 (Feature-length film)
• Release Date: 2023
• IMDb Rating: 6.5/10

Dr. Death: Cutthroat Conman (2023) exposes the dark side of a medical marvel. This documentary follows the rise and fall of Paolo Macchiarini, a surgeon lauded for performing the world’s first synthetic organ transplant.

However, as the story unfolds, a disturbing truth emerges – Macchiarini’s credentials were fabricated, and his “revolutionary” surgeries left patients worse off. The documentary explores the human cost of his deception and the international effort to bring him to justice.

Sour Grapes (2016)

• Genre: Documentary/Crime
• Creator: Jerry Rothwell, Reuben Atlas
• No of Seasons: 1 (Feature-length film)
• Release Date: 2016
• IMDb Rating: 7.3/10

Dive into the enthralling narrative of Sour Grapes, a Peacock documentary that unravels a gripping wine fraud, shaking the world of high-end collectors and enthusiasts. Rudy Kurniawan, once a revered figure in the vintage wine community, orchestrated a scheme selling cheap imitations as luxurious, rare burgundies.

His deception was elaborate and convincing until the FBI intervened, leading to his arrest and deportation.

Sour Grapes isn’t just a tale of fraud; it explores deeper themes of trust, greed, and the lengths individuals go to uphold an illusion of grandeur. As a story of deceit within the realm of luxury, it serves as a fascinating watch for those interested in the dark underbelly of high society. It is considered to be one of the best true crime documentaries on Peacock.

All Things Must Pass (2015)

• Genre: Documentary/Music
• Creator: Colin Hanks
• No of Seasons: 1 (Feature-length film)
• Release Date: 2015
• IMDb Rating: 7.2/10

Discover a piece of music history with “All Things Must Pass,” a Peacock documentary directed by Colin Hanks that chronicles the rise and fall of the iconic Tower Records. Featuring interviews with music legends like Questlove, Dave Grohl, and Elton John, this film is a must-watch for any music lover.

It’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminding us of the days when music was tangible and record stores were the temples of sound. “All Things Must Pass” is not just about music; it’s about a cultural phenomenon that shaped an era. This documentary is available on Peacock, so make sure you add it to your list of best documentaries 2024 to stream!

The Witness (2015)

• Genre: Documentary
• No of Seasons: 1 (Feature-length film)
• Release Date: 2015
• IMDb Rating: 7/10

The Witness (2015) tackles the infamous 1964 murder of Kitty Genovese in New York City. News reports initially painted a disturbing picture – 38 bystanders allegedly watched as Kitty was stabbed to death over 30 minutes, doing nothing to intervene. This sparked national outrage and discussions about bystander apathy.

However, The Witness doesn’t simply accept the initial narrative. Through interviews with surviving witnesses and a re-examination of the case, the documentary aims to uncover the truth about that night. It delves beyond the headlines, exploring factors like fear, confusion, and the limitations of human memory that might have influenced the initial reports.

The Witness sheds light on the true events surrounding the case, offering a more nuanced understanding of Kitty Genovese’s life and the complexities of bystander behavior.

The Act of Killing (2012)

• Genre: Documentary/Crime
• Creator: Joshua Oppenheimer
• No of Seasons: 1 (Feature-length film)
• Release Date: 2012
• IMDb Rating: 8.2/10

The Act of Killing is a groundbreaking documentary that confronts viewers with the chilling realities of the Indonesian mass killings of 1965-66. By compelling former death squad leaders to reenact their past atrocities in the style of cinematic genres they admire, the documentary blurs the lines between past and present, forcing a profound examination of memory and guilt.

Supported by filmmaking luminaries Errol Morris and Werner Herzog, The Act of Killing has garnered widespread acclaim for its innovative approach to storytelling. This documentary challenges not only the participants but also the audience to question the depths of human morality and the capacity for cruelty. It is said to be one of the best documentaries on Peacock IMDb ratings prove it right.

The Cove (2009)

• Genre: Documentary/Environmental
• Creator: Louie Psihoyos
• No of Seasons: 1 (Feature-length film)
• Release Date: 2009
• IMDb Rating: 8.4/10

In The Cove, a documentary team led by activist Ric O’Barry unravels the dark reality of dolphin slaughter in Taiji, Japan. The film not only exposes barbaric acts of animal cruelty but also addresses the broader environmental crisis these practices contribute to. With its Oscar-winning efforts, The Cove serves as a potent call to action against the hunting industry and a plea for the preservation of marine life.

The documentary confronts viewers with the stark truth of animal exploitation and the devastating environmental repercussions of human actions. It has spurred international debate and has played a significant role in inspiring change, emphasizing the influence of documentary filmmaking as a medium for advocacy and awareness.

I recommend you to go through the Peacock subscription cost guideline first to watch some of the good documentaries on Peacock today!

Man On Wire (2008)

• Genre: Documentary/Biography
• Creator: James Marsh
• No of Seasons: 1 (Feature-length film)
• Release Date: 2008
• IMDb Rating: 7.7/10

Man On Wire is a thrilling and beautifully crafted documentary that recounts Philippe Petit’s ambitious high-wire walk between the Twin Towers in 1974.

Structured like a heist film, it builds suspense and awe as it interweaves contemporary interviews with reenactments and actual footage of the event. Its storytelling prowess earned it an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, a BAFTA, and a Grand Jury Prize at Sundance, among other accolades.

This documentary is a testament to human daring and creativity, and it will captivate viewers who are intrigued by stories that push the boundaries of possibility.

Who Killed Robert Wone? (2023)

• Genre: Documentary/Crime fiction
• Creator: Jared P. Scott, Eric Wetherington, Patrick Reardon
• No of Seasons: 1 (Feature-length film)
• Release Date: 2023
• IMDb Rating: 7.2/10

Unsolved in 2006, the 2023 miniseries “Who Killed Robert Wone?” dives into the attorney’s murder. Found dead in a friend’s home with minimal evidence, suspicion falls on his housemates whose stories raise doubts. The documentary explores the investigation’s struggle to find a killer, the unusual charges against the housemates, and the lingering questions that continue to plague the case.

I Am Big Bird (2015)

• Genre: Documentary/Biography
• Creator: Dave LaMattina, Chad N. Walker
• No of Seasons: 1 (Feature-length film)
• Release Date: 2014
• IMDb Rating: 7.3/10

I Am Big Bird is a heartwarming documentary that offers an intimate glimpse into the life of Caroll Spinney, the man who brought Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch to life on Sesame Street. This documentary is more than just a biography; it’s a celebration of the joy and impact these characters have had on children and adults alike for generations.

For fans of Sesame Street and those who cherish the power of puppetry and performance, I Am Big Bird is an emotional journey that highlights the influence of educational television and the legacy of an extraordinary performer.

Taxi to the Dark Side (2008)

• Genre: Documentary/Crime/Dram/ War
• Creator: Alex Gibney
• No of Seasons: 1 (Feature-length film)
• Release Date: 2008
• IMDb Rating: 7.5/10

Taxi to the Dark Side (2007) isn’t a 2008 film, but a 2007 documentary that exposes the dark underbelly of the War on Terror. It centers on the tragic death of Dilawar, an Afghan taxi driver, in 2002.

Dilawar was wrongly detained by US forces and subjected to brutal interrogation techniques at Bagram Air Base. The film investigates the torture methods used, including excessive beatings, that ultimately led to Dilawar’s death.

Taxi to the Dark Side goes beyond a single case. It critiques the controversial U.S. policy of torture and its devastating human cost, prompting viewers to question the methods employed in the name of national security.

The Imposter (2012)

• Genre: Documentary/Crime
• Creator: Bart Layton
• No of Seasons: 1 (Feature-length film)
• Release Date: 2012
• IMDb Rating: 7.5/10

The Imposter is a Peacock documentary that takes viewers on a bewildering journey through the true story of Frédéric Bourdin, a French con artist who managed to impersonate Nicholas Patrick Barclay, a missing child from Texas. This documentary skillfully combines interviews, archival footage, and re-enactments to create a narrative that is as thought-provoking as it is unsettling.

Directed by Bart Layton, the film challenges viewers to question identity, family ties, and the lengths to which one might go to conceal a truth or find closure. Its compelling nature ensures it’s a standout addition to any documentary watchlist, particularly for those intrigued by crime and mystery.

Food, Inc. (2009)

• Genre: Documentary/Health
• Creator: Robert Kenner
• No of Seasons: 1 (Feature-length film)
• Release Date: 2008
• IMDb Rating: 7.8/10

Food, Inc. is a groundbreaking documentary that takes a critical look at the corporate-controlled food industry in America. The film exposes the often unethical practices of food production that prioritize profit over consumer health, environmental sustainability, and animal welfare.

Food, Inc. is not just informative—it’s a call to action that encourages viewers to reconsider where their food comes from and the impact of their eating habits. This documentary is a standout on Peacock for its compelling narrative and its ability to enlighten and inspire change in its audience, much like other peacock documentaries.

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Fahrenheit 9/11 (2004)

• Genre: Documentary/Politics
• Creator: Michael Moore
• No of Seasons: 1 (Feature-length film)
• Release Date: 2004
• IMDb Rating: 7.5/10

When discussing documentaries on Peacock that have made significant cultural and political impacts, Michael Moore’s Fahrenheit 9/11 stands out as a seminal work. As the highest-grossing documentary at the time of its release, this film probes the events of September 11, 2001, and the subsequent war in Iraq.

Fahrenheit 9/11 is not just a film; it’s a national conversation starter. It’s a piece of cinematic history that questioned the role of the government and the media in a time of crisis. With its unflinching look at politics and corporate interests, the film won the prestigious Palme d’Or at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival, showcasing its universal critical acclaim despite its controversial nature.

Rewind (2023)

• Genre: Documentary/Crime
• No of Seasons: 1 (Feature-length film)
• Release Date: 2019
• IMDb Rating: 6.9/10

Rewind presents an autobiographical documentary that ventures into the personal and painful experiences of childhood sexual abuse. Director Sasha Neulinger reclaims his past through family home videos, piecing together a narrative filled with courage and the will to overcome trauma. The film serves as a poignant testament to resilience and the arduous journey towards healing.

By confronting the harrowing truths of abuse and its long-term aftermath, Rewind transcends a story of personal suffering to become a catalyst for broader societal recognition and dialogue about the plight of survivors. It’s a documentary that balances the vulnerability of its subject with an empowering message of recovery and hope for those who have endured similar experiences.

Holy Hell (2016)

• Genre: Documentary/Drama
• No of Seasons: 1 (Feature-length film)
• Release Date: 2016
• IMDb Rating: 7/10

Holy Hell (2016) isn’t a fictional story, but a documentary that delves into the manipulative world of a cult. Filmmaker Will Allen chronicles his own 22-year experience as a member of a Los Angeles-based spiritual group called Buddhafield.

Allen, initially drawn to the group’s alternative lifestyle, uses footage he shot during his time there. The documentary exposes the charismatic leader, Michel, who used manipulation and emotional abuse to control his followers.

Holy Hell unveils the disillusionment and eventual escape of Allen and other former members, painting a chilling portrait of life within a cult.

Casey Anthony: Where the Truth Lies (2022)

• Genre: Documentary/Crime Fiction
• No of Seasons: 1 (Feature-length film)
• Release Date: 2022
• IMDb Rating: 3.7/10

Casey Anthony: Where the Truth Lies” tackles the highly debated 2008 case of a Florida mom, Casey Anthony, accused of murdering her toddler daughter Caylee. The documentary explores the confusing investigation, media frenzy, and controversial “not guilty” verdict, leaving viewers to decide for themselves what truly happened.

I Am Not Your Negro (2016)

• Genre: Documentary/History
• Creator: Raoul Peck
• No of Seasons: 1 (Feature-length film)
• Release Date: 2016
• IMDb Rating: 7.8/10

I Am Not Your Negro also emerges as one of the best documentaries on Peacock outside US, drawing from James Baldwin’s seminal, yet incomplete manuscript, “Remember This House.”

It delves into the fabric of race relations in America, threading through the lives and tragic assassinations of civil rights icons Medgar Evers, Malcolm X, and Martin Luther King Jr. Baldwin’s prophetic prose, interwoven with archival footage and modern-day interviews, serves as a piercing lens into the enduring shadow of racism and systemic inequity in American society.

I found that through this poignant narrative, the documentary invites viewers to confront uncomfortable truths and reflect on the persistent struggle for racial justice and equality. This is just a taste of what Peacock offers – there are many other best shows on Peacock outside US to captivate you on every topic!

Redditors Suggestion for Best Documentaries on Peacock

Reddit thread is full of folks looking for the perfect post-travel documentary fix, and while they don’t mention Peacock specifically, they’ve got some great ideas for documentaries to kick-start your relaxation. After viewing the Reddit suggestions I streamed “Who Killed Robert Wone” and “Buried in the Backyard”

Peacock has a fantastic selection of true crime shows, including a brand new one about Joran van der Sloot. I’m currently enjoying Finally Caught. You can also watch documentaries like Once Upon a Time in Londongrad, Shiny Happy People, Stolen Youth, and A Friend of the Family. I believe these content pieces are a perfect blend of entertainment to keep your streaming spirit high.

Award-winning documentaries on Peacock

“Man on Wire” (2008) has received numerous awards, including:

• Academy Award: Best Documentary Feature (2009)
• BAFTA Award: Outstanding British Documentary (2009)
• Sundance Film Festival: Grand Jury Prize (Documentary) (2008)
• National Board of Review: Top 5 Documentaries (2008)
• Los Angeles Film Critics Association: Best Documentary (2008)
• New York Film Critics Circle: Best Non-Fiction Film (2008)

These are just some of the major awards “Man on Wire” has received. It’s a highly acclaimed documentary recognized for its storytelling and capturing Philippe Petit’s incredible high-wire walk between the Twin Towers and is currently streaming on Peacock.

Food, Inc. (2008) was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature at the 82nd Academy Awards. While it didn’t win the award, the nomination itself is a significant recognition of the film’s quality and impact.

FAQs – Best Documentaries on Peacock

Wrap Up

You can easily watch best documentaries on Peacock outside US on Peacock with a trustworthy VPN, I suggest ExpressVPN. These best selections captivate audiences with their diverse range of topics, engaging storytelling, and insightful exploration of real-life events and issues.

If you are wondering if there are Peacock Documentaries 2024 streaming, the platform ensures that viewers have access to high-quality, educational, and entertaining content that leaves a lasting impact and sparks meaningful conversations. Happy streaming!