Paramount Plus Top Picks: Best Documentaries You Must Watch

Paramount Plus, a burgeoning platform in the streaming service industry, is home to an extensive library of documentaries that captivate, educate, and inform viewers. From gripping real-life stories to profound explorations of significant historical events, Paramount Plus offers an impressive range of documentary films that cater to a wide variety of interests. Whether you are a history buff, a science enthusiast, or simply someone who loves a good story, there's something for everyone.

The allure of documentaries lies in their ability to present real-world stories with authenticity and depth, often shedding light on topics many might not be familiar with. Paramount Plus takes pride in offering some of the best documentaries available, which not only entertain but also provoke thought and inspire change. As more people turn to streaming services for their documentary fix, the quality and diversity of content become paramount, pun intended.

In this article, we'll delve into the best documentaries on Paramount Plus, highlighting the unique stories they tell and the impact they have on viewers. We'll cover a variety of genres, from social issues to environmental challenges, and provide a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the platform's extensive documentary catalog. Whether you're looking for a heartwarming tale or a hard-hitting exposé, you'll find a documentary that resonates with you on Paramount Plus.

Table of Contents

• What Makes a Documentary Great?
• Why Choose Paramount Plus for Documentaries?
• Top Social Issue Documentaries
• Must-Watch Historical Documentaries
• Best Nature and Environment Documentaries
• Intriguing Science and Technology Documentaries
• How Do Documentaries Impact Society?
• Are There Exclusive Documentaries on Paramount Plus?
• What Genres Are Most Popular?
• How to Choose the Right Documentary for You?
• Top Picks for Family Viewing
• The Role of Filmmakers in Documentaries
• Where to Find More Recommendations?
• FAQs
• Conclusion

What Makes a Documentary Great?

Documentaries have the power to educate, entertain, and inspire audiences by presenting real-life stories in a compelling manner. But what truly makes a documentary stand out as great? A great documentary often combines several key elements:

• Authenticity: The story should be genuine, presenting facts accurately without embellishment.
• Engagement: The ability to captivate the viewer's attention and maintain interest throughout.
• Emotional Impact: The power to evoke emotions, whether it's empathy, anger, joy, or sadness.
• Relevance: Addressing topics that are timely and significant to society.
• Storytelling: A well-structured narrative that guides the viewer through the story.

When these elements come together, documentaries can leave a lasting impression on viewers, often prompting them to think, discuss, and even take action on the issues presented.

Why Choose Paramount Plus for Documentaries?

Paramount Plus has emerged as a go-to platform for documentary enthusiasts, offering a diverse selection of films covering various subjects. Here's why Paramount Plus stands out:

• Variety: A vast array of documentaries across different genres, including history, science, social issues, and more.
• Quality: High-quality productions with powerful storytelling and stunning visuals.
• Exclusives: Access to exclusive documentaries not available on other platforms.
• User-Friendly: An intuitive interface that makes browsing and selecting documentaries easy.
• Affordability: Competitive pricing plans that provide excellent value for money.

Whether you're a seasoned documentary fan or a newcomer, Paramount Plus offers something for everyone, making it a top choice for documentary streaming.

Top Social Issue Documentaries

Social issue documentaries on Paramount Plus tackle a wide range of important topics, offering viewers insight into pressing societal challenges. These films often serve as a call to action, encouraging audiences to reflect on their role in shaping the world around them. Some notable social issue documentaries include:

• "A Life Too Short": A poignant look at the struggles faced by women in conservative societies.
• "Poverty, Inc.": An exploration of the global aid industry and its impact on impoverished communities.
• "13th": A powerful examination of the intersection of race, justice, and mass incarceration in the United States.
• "The Social Dilemma": A thought-provoking film about the dark side of social media and its influence on society.

These documentaries not only educate viewers but also inspire them to become advocates for change, making them essential viewing for anyone interested in social justice.

Must-Watch Historical Documentaries

Historical documentaries offer a window into the past, providing insights into events and figures that have shaped our world. Paramount Plus boasts an impressive collection of historical documentaries that are both informative and engaging. Some must-watch titles include:

• "The Vietnam War": An in-depth exploration of the Vietnam War, featuring firsthand accounts and archival footage.
• "Apollo 11": A breathtaking look at the iconic space mission that landed humans on the moon.
• "The Civil War": A comprehensive examination of the American Civil War, its causes, and its consequences.
• "The Last Dance": A captivating series on Michael Jordan's career and the Chicago Bulls' dynasty.

These documentaries not only chronicle pivotal moments in history but also provide context and analysis, helping viewers understand their significance and impact.

Best Nature and Environment Documentaries

Paramount Plus offers a stunning selection of nature and environment documentaries that showcase the beauty and complexity of our planet. These films often highlight the importance of conservation and the urgent need to address environmental challenges. Some standout nature documentaries include:

• "Our Planet": A visually stunning series that explores the natural world and the impact of climate change.
• "Chasing Ice": A breathtaking look at the effects of global warming on glaciers and polar ice.
• "The Cove": An award-winning documentary about the controversial dolphin hunts in Taiji, Japan.
• "Before the Flood": A compelling film featuring Leonardo DiCaprio, exploring the threats posed by climate change.

These documentaries inspire viewers to appreciate the natural world and consider their role in protecting it for future generations.

Intriguing Science and Technology Documentaries

Science and technology documentaries on Paramount Plus delve into fascinating topics, from groundbreaking discoveries to the latest advancements. These films offer viewers a glimpse into the future and the potential of human ingenuity. Some intriguing titles include:

• "Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey": A scientific journey through the universe, hosted by Neil deGrasse Tyson.
• "Particle Fever": A thrilling exploration of the search for the Higgs boson at the Large Hadron Collider.
• "The Great Hack": An investigation into data privacy and the role of technology in shaping modern society.
• "The Mars Generation": A look at the next generation of space explorers and their dream of reaching Mars.

These documentaries not only entertain but also educate viewers about the incredible advancements in science and technology, inspiring curiosity and wonder.

How Do Documentaries Impact Society?

Documentaries have a profound impact on society by raising awareness, sparking conversations, and inspiring action. They serve as powerful tools for education and advocacy, often leading to real-world change. Here's how documentaries impact society:

• Education: Documentaries educate viewers on complex issues, providing a deeper understanding of the world.
• Awareness: They raise awareness about important topics, shining a light on issues that may be overlooked.
• Advocacy: Many documentaries advocate for change, encouraging viewers to take action and support causes.
• Empathy: By telling personal stories, documentaries foster empathy and understanding among diverse audiences.

Through compelling storytelling and powerful visuals, documentaries have the ability to influence public opinion and drive social progress.

Are There Exclusive Documentaries on Paramount Plus?

Yes, Paramount Plus offers a selection of exclusive documentaries that you won't find on other streaming platforms. These exclusives provide unique perspectives and cover a range of topics, from history to pop culture. Some exclusive documentaries on Paramount Plus include:

• "68 Whiskey": A comedic look at the lives of military medics stationed in Afghanistan.
• "Texas 6": A documentary series following a small-town high school football team in Texas.
• "Console Wars": A deep dive into the rivalry between Sega and Nintendo in the gaming industry.
• "For Heaven's Sake": A true-crime series investigating a mysterious disappearance in the Canadian wilderness.

These exclusives add to the rich tapestry of content available on Paramount Plus, offering viewers fresh and engaging stories.

What Genres Are Most Popular?

While documentaries come in many forms, certain genres tend to be more popular among viewers. On Paramount Plus, the most popular genres include:

• True Crime: Documentaries that explore real-life crimes and the pursuit of justice.
• History: Films that delve into historical events and figures.
• Nature: Documentaries showcasing the beauty and diversity of the natural world.
• Social Issues: Films that tackle pressing societal challenges and advocate for change.

These genres attract a wide audience, offering something for everyone and ensuring the continued popularity of documentaries.

How to Choose the Right Documentary for You?

With so many documentaries available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Here are some tips to help you find a documentary that suits your interests:

• Identify Your Interests: Consider what topics you find fascinating, whether it's history, science, or social issues.
• Read Reviews: Check out reviews and ratings from other viewers to gauge the quality and appeal of a documentary.
• Watch Trailers: Trailers can provide a glimpse into the documentary's style and content.
• Explore Genres: Experiment with different genres to discover new areas of interest.

By following these tips, you can find documentaries that resonate with you and provide an enjoyable viewing experience.

Top Picks for Family Viewing

Documentaries can be a great way for families to learn and explore together. Paramount Plus offers a selection of family-friendly documentaries that are both educational and entertaining. Some top picks for family viewing include:

• "Planet Earth II": A breathtaking series that explores the wonders of the natural world.
• "The Blue Planet": An awe-inspiring look at the oceans and marine life.
• "March of the Penguins": A heartwarming film about the life journey of emperor penguins.
• "Born to Be Wild": A touching documentary about orphaned elephants and orangutans.

These documentaries provide an opportunity for families to bond over shared interests and learn more about the world around them.

The Role of Filmmakers in Documentaries

Filmmakers play a crucial role in the creation of documentaries, shaping the narrative and bringing stories to life. Their vision, creativity, and dedication are essential to the success of a documentary. Here's how filmmakers contribute to documentaries:

• Storytelling: Filmmakers craft the narrative, deciding which stories to tell and how to tell them.
• Research: In-depth research is conducted to ensure accuracy and authenticity.
• Visuals: Filmmakers use visuals to enhance the storytelling and engage viewers.
• Editing: The editing process is crucial in shaping the final product and maintaining viewer interest.

Through their expertise and passion, filmmakers create documentaries that inform, inspire, and entertain audiences worldwide.

Where to Find More Recommendations?

If you're looking for more documentary recommendations, there are several resources available to help you discover new films:

• Online Reviews: Websites like Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb provide reviews and ratings for documentaries.
• Streaming Platforms: Explore the documentary sections of streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime for more options.
• Social Media: Follow documentary-focused social media accounts for recommendations and updates.
• Film Festivals: Attend film festivals, either in-person or virtually, to discover new and upcoming documentaries.

These resources can help you find documentaries that align with your interests and provide a fulfilling viewing experience.

FAQs

1. Are documentaries on Paramount Plus available in multiple languages? Yes, many documentaries on Paramount Plus offer subtitles or audio options in multiple languages.
2. Can I download documentaries on Paramount Plus for offline viewing? Yes, Paramount Plus allows subscribers to download content for offline viewing on compatible devices.
3. How often does Paramount Plus add new documentaries? Paramount Plus regularly updates its documentary library, adding new titles to keep the content fresh and engaging.
4. Are there any age restrictions for watching documentaries on Paramount Plus? Some documentaries may have age restrictions due to their content, so it's important to check the ratings before viewing.
5. How can I suggest a documentary for Paramount Plus to add? While there's no direct method to suggest documentaries, feedback can often be submitted through the platform's customer service channels.
6. Is there a free trial available for Paramount Plus? Paramount Plus typically offers a free trial period for new subscribers, allowing them to explore the platform's offerings.

Conclusion

Paramount Plus offers a rich and diverse collection of documentaries that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you're passionate about history, nature, social issues, or science, you'll find engaging and thought-provoking documentaries to enjoy. With its exclusive content and user-friendly interface, Paramount Plus is a top choice for documentary enthusiasts looking for quality entertainment and education. So, sit back, relax, and explore the best documentaries on Paramount Plus today.