Looking for something engaging to watch this weekend? Netflix has a treasure trove of documentaries that provide authentic narratives featuring real people and relatable stakes—far beyond what fiction can offer. The great thing is, you won’t have to commit to a lengthy series; each of these documentaries tells its story in just 90 minutes or so.
Here are three exceptional documentaries that promise to entertain and inspire—whether you’re in the mood for a poignant tale of recovery, a whimsical escapade, or an adrenaline-pumping climbing adventure.
1. Kidnapped: Elizabeth Smart
Currently holding the No. 2 position on Netflix’s global Top 10 list and boasting a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes, Kidnapped: Elizabeth Smart is a hauntingly powerful documentary. It explores the traumatic yet ultimately redemptive story of Elizabeth Smart, who was kidnapped at the age of 14 in 2002 and held in captivity for nine harrowing months.
This documentary takes viewers through Elizabeth’s ordeal—from her abduction in the dead of night from her own bedroom to the psychological and physical torment she endured. It employs rare archival footage and newly uncovered materials to illustrate the timeline of her case. Through personal interviews, Elizabeth shares her struggles with trauma but emphasizes her incredible journey toward healing, highlighting her work as a dedicated advocate for child safety and sexual assault prevention.
2. Secret Mall Apartment
Secret Mall Apartment is a delightful documentary that feels almost too incredible to be true. It recounts the peculiar events involving a group of eight artists from Rhode Island who, after losing their community to the construction of the Providence Place Mall in 2003, discovered an abandoned space within the mall’s sprawling infrastructure.
Rather than accept the loss, these artistic rebels decided to transform this hidden corner—about 750 square feet—into a makeshift home. For four years, they managed to live undetected, furnishing the space and creating a vibrant living environment despite the risks. This documentary is a comedic yet nail-biting account of their escapades, detailing how they smuggled everything from furniture to building materials into their secret hideout. It raises questions about art, social experimentations, and the consumer culture while also providing a cheerful boost.
3. Meru
If you’re still buzzing from the excitement of extreme climbing feats like Alex Honnold’s jaw-dropping free solo ascent of the Taipei 101, then Meru is your next pick. This gripping documentary chronicles the journey of elite climbers Conrad Anker, Jimmy Chin, and Renan Öztürk as they attempt to conquer the perilous Mount Meru in India, specifically the notorious Sharks Fin route.
The film captures their two attempts at climbing this daunting mountain—one in 2008, which ended in retreat due to extreme weather conditions, and a successful ascent in 2011. Beyond the thrill of extreme sports, Meru delves into the emotional and psychological toll such pursuits take on the climbers and their loved ones, revealing the deep bonds of friendship, trust, and shared passion that drive them to take on such risks.
Weekend Viewing Sorted
With these three compelling documentaries now in your watchlist, whether you seek a heart-wrenching true crime story, an amusing artistic rebellion, or a breathtaking adventure into the wild, there’s something to fit every mood. Enjoy your weekend bingeing on the remarkable stories these films have to offer!
