The Top 10 Must-Watch Vegan Documentaries on Netflix Review

BeVeganism
3 min readFeb 6, 2024

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In recent years, there has been a surge of interest in veganism and its impact on the environment, health, and animal welfare. With the rise of streaming platforms like Netflix, accessing thought-provoking documentaries that explore these topics has never been easier. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan, curious about adopting a plant-based lifestyle, or simply interested in learning more, these Top 10 Must-Watch Vegan Documentaries on Netflix Review are sure to inform and inspire.

  1. David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet (2020): Sir David Attenborough, a renowned naturalist and broadcaster, takes viewers on a poignant journey through his life and the changes he has witnessed in the natural world. With a focus on the devastating impact of human activity on the planet, Attenborough advocates for urgent action to address issues like deforestation, climate change, and loss of biodiversity. This documentary serves as a wake-up call for viewers to consider the consequences of their actions on the environment and the need for sustainable living.
  2. Earthlings (2005): Narrated by Joaquin Phoenix, “Earthlings” is a powerful and unsettling documentary that exposes the exploitation and cruelty inflicted upon animals in various industries, including food, fashion, entertainment, and research. Through hidden camera footage and expert interviews, the film challenges viewers to confront the ethical implications of their choices and encourages compassion towards all living beings.
  3. Cowspiracy (2014): “Cowspiracy” follows filmmaker Kip Andersen as he investigates the environmental impact of animal agriculture. The documentary reveals the significant contribution of the meat and dairy industry to deforestation, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions, highlighting the urgent need for a shift towards plant-based diets to mitigate environmental destruction.
  4. Seaspiracy (2021): Directed by Ali Tabrizi, “Seaspiracy” exposes the hidden realities of industrial fishing and its detrimental effects on marine ecosystems. Through interviews with activists, scientists, and industry insiders, the film uncovers issues like overfishing, bycatch, and slave labor in the fishing industry, prompting viewers to reconsider their consumption of seafood and advocate for sustainable alternatives.
  5. Blackfish (2013): “Blackfish” tells the story of Tilikum, a captive killer whale involved in several fatal incidents at SeaWorld. Through interviews and archival footage, the documentary explores the ethical concerns surrounding the captivity of marine mammals for entertainment purposes, shedding light on the physical and psychological toll it takes on these highly intelligent animals.
  6. Eating You Alive (2018): This documentary examines the health implications of the standard American diet, which is high in animal products and processed foods. Through personal testimonials and expert interviews, “Eating You Alive” explores the link between diet and chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, advocating for a plant-based approach to improve health and well-being.
  7. The Game Changers (2018): Produced by James Cameron, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Jackie Chan, “The Game Changers” challenges the myth that meat is necessary for athletic performance. Through interviews with elite athletes and scientific research, the documentary explores the benefits of a plant-based diet for strength, endurance, and overall health, debunking common misconceptions about protein and nutrition.
  8. Rotten (2018–19): This docuseries investigates various aspects of the food industry, including the production of honey, garlic, and avocados, among others. While not exclusively focused on veganism, “Rotten” highlights issues like animal welfare, environmental degradation, and unethical practices within the food supply chain, prompting viewers to consider the broader implications of their food choices.
  9. Vegucated (2011): “Vegucated” follows three meat- and cheese-loving New Yorkers as they embark on a six-week vegan challenge. Through their journey, the documentary explores the health, environmental, and ethical reasons for adopting a vegan lifestyle, providing insights into the challenges and rewards of making the transition to plant-based eating.
  10. The Milk System (2017): Directed by Andreas Pichler, “The Milk System” examines the dairy industry and its impact on farmers, consumers, and the environment. The documentary explores issues like milk production methods, animal welfare, and the rise of plant-based alternatives, prompting viewers to reconsider their consumption of dairy products and support more sustainable agricultural practices.

In conclusion, these top 10 vegan documentaries on Netflix offer compelling insights into the environmental, health, and ethical implications of adopting a plant-based lifestyle. Whether you’re interested in the impact of animal agriculture on the planet, the health benefits of a vegan diet, or the ethical considerations of consuming animal products, these documentaries provide valuable information and perspective. By watching and reflecting on these films, viewers can make more informed choices about their diet and lifestyle, contributing to a more sustainable and compassionate world for all beings.

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