GetForward has rounded up some of the most interesting Netflix documentaries that uncover the future and boost critical thinking. Dig into some of the biggest topics that shape humanity’s path forward – and can aid you in becoming future literate.
Coded Bias
What’s it about?
This documentary investigates the bias in algorithms after MIT Media Lab researcher Joy Buolamwini uncovered flaws in facial recognition technology.
Why should you watch?
Because if AI is an inevitable part of humanity’s next chapter, it shouldn’t make decisions influenced by human shortcomings. The sad truth is that if you’re not a white man, AI will be biased against you, and that needs to change.
What do the critics say?
“As author and mathematician Cathy O’Neill points out in the film, we can’t understand algorithms—or technology in general—without understanding the asymmetric power structure of those who write code versus those who have code imposed on them. In discussions of AI, there is a tendency to think of algorithmic bias as an innocent whoopsie-daisy that can be iterated out. In reality, it’s often people in positions of power imposing old, bad ideas like racist pseudoscience, using computers and math as a smokescreen to avoid accountability. After all, if the computer says it, it must be true.”
Kiss the Ground
What’s it about?
Science experts and celebrity activists unpack the ways in which the earth’s soil may be the key to combating climate change and preserving the planet.
Why should you watch?
To learn about the potential of “fixing” soil, which could be an important factor in battling climate change. Instead of using pesticides and causing soil erosion, we have an option to turn to regenerative farming that can undo some of the damage we’ve done.
What do the critics say?
“In a few decades, you may literally be thanking the ground you walk on for saving the planet. And then you can think back and realize that directors Josh Tickell (“Fuel”) and Rebecca Tickell gave you a glimpse of hope during a dark time.”
Kevin Crust, Los Angeles Times
Our planet
What’s it about?
Experience our planet’s natural beauty and examine how climate change impacts all living creatures in this ambitious documentary of spectacular scope.
Why should you watch?
Documentaries showcasing the stunning beauty of nature often avoid the touchy subject of climate change. However, David Attenborough’s brilliant Our planet managed to combine both.
What do the critics say?
“Our Planet places clearer emphasis on the fragility and interconnectedness of all the species and eco-systems on display, and on the huge impact humanity has had on them in so short a time. Socially responsible nature programming that retains all its beauty – we have at last, and at least, come to this.”
Rotten
What’s it about?
This docuseries travels deep into the heart of the food supply chain. Moreover, it reveals unsavory truths and exposes hidden forces that shape what we eat.
Why should you watch?
We bet you’ve never thought about grocery shopping in a true-crime style – that’s about to change. If you wonder why honey tastes like melted sugar or why everyone is suddenly suffering from food allergies, check out this documentary. Avoid it if you’d rather not know how much corporations care mostly about your wallet.
What do the critics say?
“The documentary sympathizes both with the uninformed shopper and the “food-enlightened consumer,” the latter being those who make it a point to research the origins of the food they eat. As “Rotten” highlights, however, we’re all woefully clueless in the face of corporate subterfuge and government loopholes. But knowledge is power … and, perhaps, a locally sourced jar of honey.”
Lorraine Ali, Los Angeles Times
Seaspiracy
What’s it about?
Passionate about ocean life, a filmmaker sets out to document the harm that humans do to marine species — and uncovers alarming global corruption.
Why should you watch?
Because if we don’t take action against how the fishing industry operates today, the lack of tasty sushi will be the least of our problems. The documentary presents compelling arguments that make you want to give up fish forever. However, we suggest that besides educating yourself, you also do some fact-checking. Some NGOs, sustainability labels, and experts quoted in Seaspiracy claim that multiple claims used in the film are misleading.
What do the critics say?
“Seaspiracy isn’t the purest form of documentary journalism, but Tabrizi (the director) makes his point with enough principled persuasion to make it worth your time. Some of the fishing industry’s troublesome ethical quandaries occur in the shadows, but to call its corrupt elements conspiratorial is almost pointlessly sensational.”
What’s it about?
This documentary-drama hybrid explores the dangerous human impact of social networking. Tech experts sound the alarm on their own creations.
Why should you watch?
The documentary is a powerful lesson – or for some, a reminder – how precious our data is. Years back, we gave it away for free thoughtlessly in exchange for some targeted ads. Today, it’s a much darker business that manipulates us, controls our lives, and wants us online non-stop. High-level (former) executives from tech companies and experts weigh in. Sometimes, they even criticize the actions of their past selves, making the documentary all the more relevant.
What do the critics say?
“With the help of articulate testimony, illuminating visual aids, and a well-crafted thesis that elegantly articulates the relationship between persuasive technology and human behavior, Orlowski (the director) fortifies the familiar argument that addiction isn’t a side effect of social media, but rather the industry’s business model. Our data is used as a currency for these companies, but our time is a far more precious commodity — how much of our lives can they get us to forfeit over to them?”
