Smart Christmas: 10 Freshest Netflix Documentaries to Stream in December
If you are tired from Home Alone and Elf.
When it's cold outside and you don't feel like going anywhere, Netflix and chilling has proven to be the best way to spend the evening. And while many of us will definitely choose some of our favorite comfort shows and movies, just to feel good and cozy, we actually have a better idea for you.
How about switching your focus to TV documentaries? The genre is perfect for fans of many things, as the stories at the center of these films can be about anything from a medical mystery to Brazilian pop stars. Here are ten new documentaries to binge on Netflix this holiday season – all of them have either just arrived to Netflix or are to be released in December.
Radical Wolfe (December 1)
Stories about how people changed the world are very popular with viewers, especially when the impact is as fundamental as reshaping an entire industry in a particular country. This documentary tells the story of American author and journalist Tom Wolfe, who became an icon overnight.
The man realized that the stories needed to be told differently than the way they are, because American journalism was all about ignoring minorities, including subcultures and communities. So he began to shape the New Journalism movement in the U.S., which ended up being revolutionary. The documentary gives a deeper look into his life and thoughts.
Who We Become (December 1)
The documentary takes place as the pandemic spreads across the world. And just as it was happening, three young Filipino women found themselves in the middle of a family drama. But in the process of reconnecting with their loved ones, they discovered their true identities, which led them to realize their political consciousness. The Filipino word "kapwa" which means a kind of shared identity, is a recurring theme throughout the documentary.
World War II: From the Frontlines (December 7)
This Netflix docu-series takes us back to the horrors of World War II and makes us realize how terrifying those days were for anyone caught in the crosshairs. What helps create the gripping image of an all-consuming war is the freshly enhanced archival footage. But what also makes this series different from any other WWII show is that it offers the perspective of both the Axis and Allied powers. The diverse narration makes this documentary the voice of the world.
Kevin Hart & Chris Rock: Headliners Only (December 12)
How often have you wished for a glimpse into the inner lives of your idols? Well, this documentary will finally make your dream come true as it offers a behind-the-scenes look at two legendary comedians, Kevin Hart and Chris Rock, while they are on tour. Viewers will also get to hear some of the best life stories from both of them. There aren't any other documentaries like this, but we think it could be the start of something big.
Under Pressure: The U.S. Women’s World Cup Team (December 12)
The documentary provides an inside look at the lives of the players on the legendary U.S. Women's National Team. The way they overcome all the obstacles and struggles, and how they manage to go through tremendous lengths to remain champions, is definitely a very inspiring watch not only for athletes and sports fans, but for literally anyone.
Se Eu Fosse: Luísa Sonza (December 13)
Are there fans of Brazilian culture? Well, we are sure that even if you are not one now, you will become obsessed after listening to any of Luisa Sonza's songs. It would be an understatement to say that Brazil's most polarizing pop singer has taken the world by storm, bringing the beats of Brazilian funk to every nightclub out there. In this documentary, she opens up about her life struggles and addresses all the controversy surrounding her name.
Face to Face with ETA: Conversations with a Terrorist (December 15)
This documentary is actually an exclusive interview with one of the biggest figures of ETA, the Basque separatist organization in Spain, Josu Urrutikoetxea (most known by the name Josu Ternera).
The documentary offers a never-before-seen glimpse into the inner workings of the terrorist organization, touching on some of the key moments leading up to its disbandment in 2018. A tense and exhausting conversation that allowed a victim of the conflict to unravel some of the mysteries of the attack he was a victim of almost 50 years ago.
Curry & Cyandie: The Jolly Joseph Case (December 22)
This documentary is the third production in the Indian Predator series. It revolves around the chilling events of the Koodathai cyanide case, forcing viewers to reflect on the fragility of human relationships and the unsettling mysteries behind the lives that at first seem so ordinary.
The film focuses on Jolly Joseph, a woman accused of murdering her entire family by poisoning them. It's emotionally devastating to see how a person's exterior can be so at odds with their true identity.
Hell Camp: Teen Nightmare (December 27)
This documentary is in the tell-all genre. It revolves around the heartbreaking stories of teenagers who attended the infamous wilderness therapy camp. As it is now revealed, the conditions in this camp were far from nice, the troubled children were brutally abused and never given a chance to recover. The gripping atmosphere of the documentary is actually nerve-tickling, so maybe don’t watch this at night.
High on the Hog: How African American Cuisine Transformed America (November 22)
Who doesn't love a good old-fashioned cooking show? Well, the newly released second season of this documentary about how food can be influential in shaping society is definitely a great watch. The show is hosted by Stephen Satterfield as he uncovers how African-American cuisine has powered social justice movements, transformed communities and sparked cultural creativity in America in powerful and lasting ways.