7 Best Documentaries On Disney Plus, Rotten Tomatoes-Approved

One of the most underrated genres on TV is probably the documentary genre. Although they've become a little more popular lately, many people still don't realize that the original documentary form has evolved and become a worthy part of television.

Viewers with literally any area of interest can find a documentary to their liking, and it helps that almost every streaming platform has huge libraries of such films.

Here are seven documentaries you can stream on Disney+ that have the highest Rotten Tomatoes scores.

1. Folklore: The Long Pond Sessions (2020)

Rotten Tomatoes: 100%

Our list starts with this 2020 documentary about Taylor Swift. Directed by Swift herself, the film gives us an intimate look inside her GRAMMY-winning album, which she created with co-producers Jack Antonoff and Aaron Dessner.

Taylor Swift takes viewers on the journey, revealing the secrets behind the making of the album and the hidden meaning behind each track. Viewers couldn't help but notice how professional she sounded in the film and how it helped fans understand her more as a person and a singer.

“I never get tired of listening to her talk about songwriting. I have to admit I teared up at her talking about this is me trying. And it was clear Jack Antonoff and Aaron Dessner have been really inspiring collaborators for her,” Redditor calkates said.

2. Summer of Soul (...Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised) (2021)

Rotten Tomatoes: 99%

Created by Ahmir-Khalib Thompson, this Oscar-winning documentary brings viewers the secret story of the iconic 1969 Harlem Culture Festival. For those who don't know, it was a multi-week true celebration of black culture, from music to fashion.

With Stevie Wonder, Jesse Jackson, Nina Simone and many more names at the center of the story, the documentary reveals all the problems these legendary people faced at the time and explains why the gigantic festival couldn't last and faded away.

3. Science Fair (2018)

Rotten Tomatoes: 97%

Have you ever imagined that science documentaries would make for compelling viewing? Well, try this one and you will be totally surprised and maybe even want to become a scientist yourself.

At the center of the movie are several excellent high school science students, and the audience gets the chance to witness them making their best decisions to win the competition they all end up in. The stress these teenagers feel is extreme and outrageous. Science Fair is a smart documentary that really feels like a sports movie.

4. The Beatles: Get Back (2021)

Rotten Tomatoes: 93%

You might think there's nothing you don't know about The Beatles, but Peter Jackson's documentary is here to prove you wrong. The three-part documentary takes fans back to the days of the band's private recording sessions in the 1970s, when their iconic album Let It Be rocked the whole world.

The movie is giving you the feeling like you are right there with them, taking part in the exact moment when something great is being created.

“This doc converted my husband from "I don't care about The Beatles" into a "These are my top 5 songs of each album and the reason behind it" kinda fan. It changed his life and therefore, mine as well. A must see for everyone who enjoys music,” Redditor AccurateMongoose6877 said.

5. Howard (2018)

Rotten Tomatoes: 94%

The 2018 documentary focuses on the life and work of Howard Ashman, one of the most important screenwriters, who literally created the best Disney movies. His life ended tragically shortly before the premiere of the legendary animated film Beauty and the Beast, which ended up being dedicated to him upon its release.

The documentary was created by his colleague Don Hahn, who carefully pieced together all the important parts of the talented Ashman's life. The film is a great watch for those who appreciate the real footage of the past years with the real voice interviews and clips from the movies he worked on.

6. Free Solo (2018)

Rotten Tomatoes: 98%

This movie is a perfect choice for sports fans. It centers on a popular rock climber Alex Honnold and his decision to free climb El Capitan in Yosemite National Park. For those who don't know, this means that he was climbing the mountain without a harness or safety line of any kind. This is really the most dangerous sports activity a person can participate in.

7. Stan Lee (2023)

Rotten Tomatoes 81%

The iconic Stan Lee and his amazing life are the focus of this documentary. The face and father of Marvel Comics, he had a brilliant career and was a true legend. The film features plenty of rare footage of Lee, including behind-the-scenes material of him creating the media behemoth that Marvel has become.