The truth can indeed be unsettling. Whether you reflect them factual or untrue, there is always a kernel of truth waiting to be exposed. HBO Max has been generating important buzz for its carefully curated collection of films and television series. However, their array of the best documentaries deserves special attention! Covering a wide spectrum of topics, these best documentaries offer profound insights into various aspects of life.
For instance, delve into the equal pay struggles of a women’s soccer team, highlighting the ongoing fight for gender equality in sports. Explore the journeys of groundbreaking artists who have reshaped their respective fields. Each documentary on this list exemplifies the incredible diversity and depth of the genre. You many also our complied list of Horror Movies on Netflix.
Best Documentaries on HBO Max
Don’t miss out on these compelling lists of the Best Documentaries on HBO Max shows and movies available on HBO Max, where every story offers a unique perspective on the world we live in.
1: ‘Amy’ (2015)
Rotten Tomatoes: 96% | IMDb: 7.8/10
“Amy” offers a raw and unfiltered look at the tragic story of musical genius Amy Winehouse. The documentary delves into her upbringing and musical training, candidly addressing her heartbreaking battles with substance abuse without sugarcoating the harsh realities. Directed by Asif Kapadia, “Amy” aims to portray the true depth of her struggles while highlighting her exceptional talent, unique sound, and reluctant ascent to fame.
Despite the Winehouse family’s lack of involvement and their strong criticism of the documentary, its success was undeniable. “Amy” received immense critical acclaim and won numerous festival awards, shedding light on the incredible yet tragically short life of Amy Winehouse.
2: ‘LFG’ (2021)
Rotten Tomatoes: 53% | IMDb: 5.6/10
“LFG” follows the members of the U.S. women’s national soccer team as they file a gender-discrimination lawsuit against the U.S. Soccer Federation for pay inequality. Featuring stars like Megan Rapinoe, Becky Sauerbrunn, and Jessica McDonald, the documentary captures their legal battle three months before the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Although U.S. District Judge R. Gary Klausner set a trial to address claims of discriminatory work conditions, he did not recognize the unequal pay portion of the lawsuit.
The film also showcases the team’s athletic achievements, including their record-breaking 2019 World Cup victory. These highlights contrast with their fight for equal pay, revealing the harsh realities they face as they strive to meet the physical demands of their sport with courage and determination. “LFG” is a powerful and cinematic documentary that explores the team’s relentless efforts both on and off the field.
3: ‘BS High’ (2023)
Rotten Tomatoes: 87% | IMDb: 7.2/10
“BS High” is aptly titled as it delves into the investigation of an Ohio high school football team that drew attention when it was discovered the school didn’t actually exist. The scandal centers on the charismatic and controversial former head coach Roy Johnson, who exploited his charm and questionable motives to create a fake team of aspiring young athletes from Columbus. These athletes competed against elite private high schools, gaining exposure and media coverage far beyond what their underfunded public schools could offer.
However, Johnson’s deceit and scams ultimately subjected these young Black athletes to harmful scrutiny, while also revealing the financial disparities within Ohio’s sports system.
4: ‘Being Mary Tyler Moore’ (2023)
Rotten Tomatoes: 77% | IMDb: 7.5/10
Step into the life of the trailblazing performer who transformed the portrayal of women on television, both in front of and behind the camera. “Being Mary Tyler Moore” offers a comprehensive look at Moore’s life, from her early days on “The Dick Van Dyke Show” to her personal battles with health and other hardships. The documentary features archival interviews and footage that provide insight into how she was perceived by the media, along with testimonials and stories from her closest friends and colleagues, including Treva Silverman (The Mary Tyler Moore Show), James L. Brooks (The Simpsons), and Edward Asner (Up). – Tauri Miller
5: ‘All the Beauty and the Bloodshed’ (2022)
Rotten Tomatoes: 95% | IMDb: 7.5/10
Renowned director Laura Poitras delves into the captivating life of legendary photographer and activist Nan Goldin in “All the Beauty and the Bloodshed.” This documentary highlights the intersection of art and politics, vividly revealing Goldin’s fervent efforts to expose the Sackler family’s role in the devastating opioid epidemic. Through unfiltered interviews with figures like David Velasco and Megan Kapler, Poitras presents a powerful and emotional portrayal of Goldin’s activism and artistic legacy. “All the Beauty and the Bloodshed” is a profound and moving documentary that showcases the impact of one artist’s relentless pursuit of justice. – Yael Tygiel
6: ‘Roadrunner: A Film About Anthony Bourdain’ (2021)
Rotten Tomatoes: 91% | IMDb: 7.7/10
When Anthony Bourdain’s death was announced in 2018, the culinary world was forever changed. Years later, “Roadrunner: A Film About Anthony Bourdain” explores his life and career as a chef, author, and travel documentarian. Bourdain, celebrated by both renowned chefs and the general public, rose to fame with his book “Kitchen Confidential,” which offered an unfiltered look at the demanding restaurant industry. His travel show “Parts Unknown” further solidified his prominence by providing viewers with insights into life in developing countries, war zones, and disaster areas through the lens of food.
“Roadrunner” highlights Bourdain’s hard-working nature and the highs and lows of his career. It also delves into the personal challenges he faced due to his frequent work-related travel. This documentary promises to reveal new facets of Bourdain’s life and legacy.
7: ‘Tina’ (2021)
Rotten Tomatoes: 92% | IMDb: 7.9/10
The life of a mega superstar can be tumultuous, and “Tina” captures the highs and lows of Tina Turner’s musical career. Based on her memoir “Happiness Becomes You,” the documentary offers a raw retelling of her life, from childhood abandonment and poverty to stardom and a secretive abusive relationship. Viewers will see her struggles and triumphant return as a solo artist, ultimately finding peace with her loving partner, Erwin Bach.
“Tina” is a story of resilience, highlighting how Turner overcame numerous hardships and emerged as a strong figure in both her personal and professional life despite her violent past.
8: ‘The Inventor: Out for Blood in Silicon Valley’ (2019)
Rotten Tomatoes: 78% | IMDb: 7.2/10
If you enjoyed Hulu’s “The Dropout,” this documentary is for you. “The Inventor: Out for Blood in Silicon Valley” follows the story of Elizabeth Holmes, the former biotechnology entrepreneur behind the now-defunct company Theranos. Once hailed as the youngest self-made female billionaire and featured on the cover of Forbes, her so-called success unraveled due to massive fraud. Named one of Fortune’s “The World’s 19 Most Disappointing Leaders,” the film explores how Holmes orchestrated one of the largest criminal frauds in the healthcare industry.
Holmes touted a revolutionary blood testing method requiring just a finger prick, but medical experts doubted its viability. Ignoring criticism, Holmes and her partner Sunny Balwani ramped up Theranos’ marketing, claiming competitor sabotage. Despite her efforts to convince the media of her company’s success, mounting allegations ultimately led to the downfall of both Theranos and Holmes.
9: ‘Tony Hawk: Until the Wheels Fall Off’ (2022)
Rotten Tomatoes: 90% | IMDb: 8.0/10
Tony Hawk is unparalleled in the world of skateboarding. “Tony Hawk: Until the Wheels Fall Off” offers an intimate look into the life of the legendary skateboarder, showcasing how he balances his extraordinary career with his personal life. Skateboarding has been central to Hawk’s life since he was 12, leading to numerous awards and record-breaking achievements.
This in-depth documentary explores Hawk’s passion for skateboarding and the life lessons he’s learned from the sport. It reveals the dedication and determination needed to master complex tricks and celebrates skateboarding culture. Featuring interviews with prominent figures in skateboarding, unseen footage, and unfiltered access to Hawk, the film provides a comprehensive look at both his life and the broader skateboarding community.
10: ‘The Bee Gees: How Can You Mend a Broken Heart’ (2020)
Rotten Tomatoes: 93% | IMDb: 8.1/10
“The documentary ‘The Bee Gees: How Can You Mend a Broken Heart’ delves into the story of the iconic band, focusing on the three brothers—Maurice, Robin, and Barry Gibb. Featuring mainly Barry Gibb and archival interviews with Robin and Maurice, the film includes insights from musicians like Noel Gallagher and Justin Timberlake. It highlights the band’s rise to fame, their temporary split, and reunion in the music industry. Unlike tabloid-style documents, it emphasizes the Bee Gees’ creative process, revealing their heartfelt songwriting amidst their glittering performances.”
