Even if you don't normally watch documentaries, this list may inspire you to discover something new. The nominated documentaries offer a unique look at different aspects of life and the world around us.
Below, in alphabetical order, the top ten nominees of the best documentary from 2024:
Alexander: The Making of a God
The first nominee is the British documentary Alexander: The Making of a God, which can be seen on Netflix. The series follows the life of Alexander III of Macedon, better known as Alexander the Great. He was king of ancient Greece in the fourth century BC and is often considered one of the greatest military leaders of all time. The docuseries explores his journey from exiled boy to obsessed conqueror determined to defeat Persian Emperor Darius. Within less than six years he managed to conquer the then known world.
Sounds like a fascinating documentary!
Here you can read the reviews that were written about Alexander: The Making of a God.
Dwars door de Lage Landen
Dwars door de Lage Landen (Right through the Low Lands) is a fascinating travel documentary in which presenter Arnout Hauben travels through the Netherlands and Belgium together with cameraman Philippe Niclaes and sound engineer Ruben Callens. The series is loved for the casual conversations with the people they meet along the way and the stories that add color to the scenes.
In the second season, which aired in 2024, they start their journey in Lauwersoog and walk diagonally through the Netherlands to the southernmost coastal town of Flanders, De Panne. Along the way they explore iconic landscapes, historic cities and meet interesting people.
This series already won the Golden Television Ring in 2024. Now also the 1st prize of the My Series election?
Formula 1: Drive to Survive
The Formula 1: Drive to Survive series offers an exclusive look behind the scenes of the Formula 1 World Championship, with interviews, footage from the races and the personal stories of the drivers and teams.
The series premiered on March 8, 2019 and has released a new season every year since. The series has contributed to the growth of Formula 1's popularity, especially in the United States, by highlighting the dramatic and human aspects of the sport.
Max Verstappen has previously indicated that he is not a big fan of the series because of the way events are sometimes exaggerated for dramatic effect. As a result, he was on screen less often and shared less personal information in season 6.
Does that make it less fun?
Het verhaal van Nederland
Het verhaal van Nederland (The Story of the Netherlands) is an impressive series that tells the history of the Netherlands in ten episodes. The series combines elements of drama and documentary, with actor Daan Schuurmans serving as narrator and traveling through time to explore important historical events.
The series takes the viewer from prehistory to modern times, and shows how the Netherlands has developed over the centuries.
A special aspect of the series is the hybrid approach, where Schuurmans can enter the set at any time to bring the stories to life. This makes the series both educational and fascinating for a wide audience.
Jehova: Van God los
Jehovah: Van God Los (Jehovah: Released from God) is a moving three-part documentary that can be seen on Videoland. The series offers a revealing look at life within the community of Jehovah's Witnesses and the experiences of former members who have left the organization.
The documentary features personal stories from ex-members who speak of abuse, exclusion and the loneliness that often accompanies leaving the community. One of the striking stories is that of Igmar Felicia, a former radio producer, who used a hidden camera to record a meeting warning against associating with apostates like him.
The series contains interviews with almost sixty former members, some of whom dared to talk about their experiences in images. The documentary has received a lot of attention and reactions, both in the media and in politics.
Quiet on Set: The dark side of Kids TV
Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV is a revealing four-part docuseries that exposes the dark side of popular American children's shows from the '90s and '00s. The series airs on HBO Max and offers an in-depth behind-the-scenes look at shows like iCarly, Drake and Josh, Zoey 101 and Victorious.
The docuseries features interviews with former child stars and crew members who talk about verbal and sexual misconduct on set. One of the central figures in the series is Dan Schneider, a prominent producer and writer at Nickelodeon, who has been accused of abuse and abuse of power. Other cases of abuse and misconduct within the production of these shows are also highlighted.
Quiet on Set has received a lot of attention for its shocking revelations and the courage of those involved to share their stories. The series provides an important perspective on the challenges and dangers that young actors can face in the entertainment industry.
The man with 1000 kids
Perhaps you have already read something about it in the media. The Man with 1000 Kids is a revealing docuseries on Netflix. The series tells the shocking story of Jonathan Jacob Meijer, a Dutch YouTuber and musician accused of fathering more than 500 children through sperm donation, with possibly up to 1,000 children worldwide.
The series examines how Meijer misled countless families by lying about the number of times he had donated. The documentary features interviews with affected families and experts, and highlights the legal and ethical implications of his actions.
The Man with 1000 Kids offers a deep and sometimes disturbing insight into the world of sperm donation and the potential abuses that can occur. It's a must-see for anyone interested in true crime stories and the complexities of modern reproductive technologies.
Together: Treble Winners
Together: Treble Winners is a fascinating docuseries that can be seen on Netflix. The series relives Manchester City FC's record-breaking 2022-23 season, which saw the team win the Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup.
The documentary features compelling footage and personal interviews with players and staff, including manager Pep Guardiola and striker Erling Haaland. It showcases the team's resilience, dedication and unwavering spirit throughout their historic journey.
Unsolved Mysteries
Unsolved Mysteries (2020) is an exciting docuseries on Netflix that is a revival of the iconic series from the '80s and '90s. The series explores true, mysterious disappearances, shocking murders and supernatural experiences. Each episode focuses on a different mystery, combining interviews with those involved, family members and experts with dramatic reconstructions.
Did you know that Unsolved Mysteries was created by the original series creators and the producers of Stranger Things, contributing to the show's high production quality and immersive nature.
Welcome to Wrexham
The last nomination goes to another sports documentary.
Season 3 of Welcome to Wrexham once again follows the adventures of Wrexham A.F.C. led by owners Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds. This season focuses on the team's challenges and successes as they play in League Two, which brings a new level of intensity.
In addition, the Wrexham women's team will receive A.F.C. attention, especially after their promotion to the Welsh Adran Premier League. The series showcases the new players, the revamped pitch and the increased competition as the team attempts to continue their dominance and make a name for themselves at the top of the league. The success of the series has contributed to the growing popularity of Wrexham A.F.C. and has put the club in the spotlight worldwide.
Whether you're a seasoned documentary enthusiast or just starting to explore this genre, these nominated documentaries offer a wide range of fascinating stories and insights. From historical figures and epic journeys to the intriguing world of Formula 1 and personal testimonies, there is something for everyone. But which one is the best?
These were all ten nominees nominated by you, the readers, the writers and myself. If you want to choose a different series, use your wildcard. Good luck voting!
I watch more series like Unsolved Mysteries and this one will get my vote. Nice dramatized and beautifully produced stories about strange cases that have not been solved yet. Recommended!