7 Must-Watch Underrated Netflix Documentaries for May 2025

7 Underrated Netflix Documentaries to Stream in May 2025

Netflix’s documentary catalog is vast, but not all gems get the attention they deserve. To help you cut through the noise, we’ve curated a list of seven underrated documentaries—ranging from shocking true crime to music retrospectives and deep dives into 1970s cinema. Each offers a unique perspective, ensuring there’s something for every viewer.

1. Breakdown: 1975

Breakdown: 1975 (Netflix) is a deep dive into the golden age of American cinema. Directed by Morgan Neville, the Oscar-winning filmmaker behind 20 Feet From Stardom, this documentary explores how films like Taxi Driver, Chinatown, All the President’s Men, and Dog Day Afternoon captured the era’s widespread anxiety and distrust through independent filmmaking. With insights from some of history’s greatest directors, it’s both a fascinating and thoroughly enjoyable watch.

Al Pacino in Dog Day Afternoon. Image credit: mptvimages.com / Courtesy of Netflix © 2025

2. Victim/Suspect

Victim/Suspect (Netflix, 2023) examines a disturbing trend: victims of sexual assault being treated as suspects by law enforcement. The documentary follows a journalist who uncovers multiple cases across the U.S. where young women, despite telling the truth, are charged with false reporting. Featuring voices from survivors, legal experts, and advocates, it’s a harrowing yet essential exploration of systemic failures and the fight for justice.

3. Girl in the Picture

Girl in the Picture (Netflix) is a chilling true crime documentary that begins with a suspicious hit-and-run death in Tulsa. The victim’s coworkers soon realize she wasn’t who she claimed to be, unraveling a web of deception. A reporter’s discovery of a childhood photograph of the woman adds another layer to this baffling case. For fans of true crime, this one is a must-watch.

4. The Greatest Night in Pop

The Greatest Night in Pop (Netflix, 2024) chronicles the making of the iconic 1985 charity single We Are the World. The documentary brings together legendary pop stars for a one-night recording session after an awards show, featuring archival footage of Michael Jackson battling stage fright, Bob Dylan navigating the crowd, and Quincy Jones and Lionel Richie racing against the clock. Despite its star-studded cast, this underseen gem remains a hidden treasure.

Why These Documentaries Stand Out

These seven documentaries offer something for every viewer, whether you’re drawn to:

• Cinematic history: Breakdown: 1975 explores the cultural impact of 1970s films.
• True crime: Victim/Suspect and Girl in the Picture tackle urgent social issues and baffling mysteries.
• Music retrospectives: The Greatest Night in Pop celebrates a legendary moment in pop history.

How to Find More Underrated Netflix Documentaries

Netflix’s algorithm can make it easy to miss hidden gems. To discover more underrated documentaries:

• Use the “Documentaries” category and sort by “Most Relevant” or “A-Z”.
• Check the “Critically Acclaimed” section for lesser-known titles.
• Follow Netflix’s “Just Watched” recommendations for personalized suggestions.

Final Thoughts

From the political tensions of the 1970s to modern-day injustices, these seven underrated Netflix documentaries offer compelling storytelling and fresh perspectives. Whether you’re a true crime enthusiast, a music lover, or a film buff, there’s a hidden gem waiting for you this May.