Documentaries have a unique way of drawing us into real-life stories, sparking curiosity, and shining a light on topics we might otherwise overlook. Whether they’re about history, culture, music, or personal struggles, they blend education with entertainment in a way that’s both engaging and thought-provoking. This year, 2025, is no exception. From exploring the lives of legendary musicians to uncovering stories of resilience and creativity, this year’s lineup of documentaries has something for everyone. If you’re looking to laugh, cry, or simply learn something new, buckle up, because this list highlights some of the most captivating documentaries you won’t want to miss.

From “Sly Lives!” to “Thank You Very Much,” the films of 2025 are packed with powerful storytelling, incredible visuals, and unforgettable moments. Here’s a closer look at the ones that stand out the most.

1. Sly Lives! (aka The Burden of Black Genius)

Directed by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, this documentary dives into the life and legacy of Sly Stone, the trailblazing leader of Sly and the Family Stone, one of the most influential bands of the late 1960s and 70s. Known for their genre-blending sound and boundary-pushing lyrics, Sly and the Family Stone created hits like “Everyday People” and “Dance to the Music.” The film doesn’t just revisit their rise to fame; it also explores the cultural and personal challenges that came with it.

Featuring interviews with musical icons like André 3000, Chaka Khan, and Nile Rodgers, Sly Lives! captures the energy and complexity of Sly Stone’s world, showcasing both his brilliance and the struggles he faced. Questlove, fresh off his Oscar-winning Summer of Soul, creates yet another masterful tribute that goes beyond music, offering a broader exploration of race, fame, and creativity in America.

2. One to One: John & Yoko

For Beatles fans or anyone fascinated by iconic love stories, One to One is a must-watch. Directed by Kevin Macdonald, this film focuses on John Lennon’s life from 1971 to 1973, a period when he and Yoko Ono relocated to New York City. This was a time of artistic experimentation, radical politics, and Lennon’s only full-length solo concert.

The documentary weaves together restored concert footage, intimate moments in Lennon and Ono’s Greenwich Village home, and insights into the couple’s activism. With audio production overseen by their son, Sean Ono Lennon, the film not only digs deep into their personal lives but also reflects the turbulent era they inhabited. It’s a fresh lens on one of music’s most famous and unique duos.

3. SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night

What’s it like to work on one of the longest-running and most beloved TV shows in history? SNL50 takes audiences behind the scenes of Saturday Night Live as it celebrates its 50th anniversary. This four-part docuseries features interviews with over 60 comedians, writers, and performers who have shaped the legendary sketch show.

From the nerve-wracking auditions to the writers’ room dynamics, SNL50 explores the creation of some of the show’s most iconic sketches. Plus, you’ll get access to never-before-seen footage spanning five decades, all while hearing hilarious and heartfelt stories from people like Bill Hader, Tina Fey, and Amy Poehler. Whether you’re an SNL superfan or just curious about how a live comedy show comes together, this docuseries is packed with laughs and nostalgia.

4. Seeds

Winner of the U.S. Documentary Grand Jury Prize at this year’s Sundance Film Festival, Seeds is a quiet yet powerful story about Black farmers in the American South. Directed by Brittany Shyne, the film explores the daily struggles of these farmers as they fight for their livelihoods and demand fair treatment in an industry that often overlooks their contributions.

Through breathtaking cinematography and intimate storytelling, Seeds highlights resilience, community, and the bond these farmers have with the land. It’s a deeply moving examination of systemic challenges and the strength it takes to overcome them. If you’re looking for a documentary that’s both stunning and full of heart, Seeds is one to add to your list.

5. Thank You Very Much

Andy Kaufman was a trailblazing comedian unlike any other. Known for pushing the boundaries of performance with his absurdist humor and cringe-inducing antics, his life and career are the focus of this documentary produced by the Safdie Brothers.

Thank You Very Much is packed with archival footage and interviews with those who knew Kaufman best, including Steve Martin, Danny DeVito, and Robin Williams. The film explores his rise to fame, his unique brand of comedy, and the mystery surrounding his untimely death. With its mix of humor, heart, and a touch of the bizarre, this documentary is perfect for anyone curious about one of comedy’s most fascinating figures.

6. Other Must-Watch Documentaries

While the above titles are clear standouts, there are plenty of other great documentaries making waves in 2025. Here are a few more worth checking out:

  • Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey follows the story of an endangered mammal and its road to rehabilitation, created by the same team behind My Octopus Teacher.
  • Don’t Die: The Man Who Wants to Live Forever explores the strange and sometimes controversial quest of a multimillionaire trying to reverse aging.
  • Call Her Alex provides a behind-the-scenes look at Alex Cooper, host of the popular Call Her Daddy podcast, offering insights into her life and career.
  • No Other Land tackles the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict through the lens of two activists striving for equality and understanding.