20 Best Documentary Movies on Disney Plus 2026
Explore 20 standout Disney Plus documentaries, from The Rescue and Before the Flood to Music by John Williams, updated for September 2026.
If you’re looking for the best documentary movies on Disney Plus, this list makes it easy to find something worth your time. From the survival tension of The Rescue to the climate urgency of Before the Flood, the platform has a strong mix of real-life stories that can feel thrilling, moving, and eye-opening all at once. You’ll also find music-focused picks like Music by John Williams, family-friendly nostalgia in Not Just a Goof, and older nature gems such as Beaver Valley. With 20 titles on the page, there’s plenty to explore across documentary, action, mystery, thriller, and news-style storytelling. Fresh additions like Disney Worldbuilders and Orangutan show how wide the selection has become as of September 2026.
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01
Disney Worldbuilders
documentary
We sit down with some of the key figures shaping Disney’s most enduring stories for a series of intimate conversations about their early years, first sparks, and formative Disney memories — and how the worlds they once dreamed up are now taking shape at Disney destinations around the globe.
Directed by Leslie IwerksCast Bob Iger, Dave Filoni, James Cameron, Jared Bush, Jennifer LeeDisney Plus -
02
The Rescue
documentary · action · mystery · thriller
The enthralling, against-all-odds story that transfixed the world in 2018: the daring rescue of twelve boys and their coach from deep inside a flooded cave in Northern Thailand.
Directed by Jimmy Chin, Elizabeth Chai VasarhelyiCast Natnadai Bradwell, Tiger Hirankrit, Nat Lawson, Obie Matthew, Felix RosenDisney Plus -
03
Before the Flood
documentary · news
A look at how climate change affects our environment and what society can do to prevent the demise of endangered species, ecosystems, and native communities across the planet.
Directed by Fisher StevensCast Eddie Albert, Lionel Barrymore, Marvin MillerDisney Plus -
04
Music by John Williams
documentary · biography · music
His unforgettable scores are an essential part of some of the most beloved movies of our time, over a career that spans decades. See and hear maestro John Williams' own story, with insights from filmmakers, musicians, and others he has inspired, complete with rare behind-the-scenes looks at the making of movie history.
Directed by Laurent BouzereauCast John Williams, Steven Spielberg, J.J. Abrams, Emanuel Ax, Kate CapshawDisney Plus -
05
Fly
documentary
Over seven years, three couples involved in the extreme sport of BASE jumping test the limits of love and life itself. Risking everything for the thrill of the jump, their dedication is put to the ultimate test.
Directed by Christina Clusiau, Shaul SchwarzCast Espen FadnesDisney Plus -
06
Beaver Valley
documentary · short · family
The film depicts a young male beaver who must defend his new family against hungry predators, mischievous river otters, and the ever-impending threat of winter.
Directed by James AlgarCast Winston Hibler, Mogens LindDisney Plus -
07
Orangutan
documentary
Narrated by Josh Gad, journey high into the rainforest canopy of Southeast Asia where a magnificent and mysterious community filled with playful personalities lives. Witness the exhilarating action, heartwarming encounters, and a closeup look at a stunning jungle teeming with wildlife as the inquisitive adolescent orangutan Indah prepares to leave her family and venture out on her own for the first time.
Directed by Mark Linfield, Oscar Dewhurst, Vanessa BerlowitzCast Josh GadDisney Plus -
08
Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour
documentary · music · musical
A concert film documenting Taylor Swift's record-breaking Eras Tour (2023-2024). Filmed during the Los Angeles shows, the film captures the tour's ten acts, each representing a different musical era from Swift's career. The film showcases over 40 songs, elaborate stage productions, and Swift's performance.
Directed by Sam WrenchCast Mike Meadows, Max Bernstein, Paul Sidoti, Amos Heller, Matt BillingsleaDisney Plus -
09
Disneyland Handcrafted
documentary
Oscar and Emmy nominated filmmaker Leslie Iwerks returns with an all-new Disney documentary giving viewers an up-close look at the dedication, effort, and passion that was required to realize a dream that would go on to inspire millions around the world.
Directed by Leslie IwerksCast Walt Disney, Art Linkletter, Irene Dunne, Harriet Burns, Marty SklarDisney Plus -
10
Not Just a Goof
documentary · family
Documentary exploring the untold story of A Goofy Movie. Follow a young creative team tackling their first Disney feature, its initial disappointment, and its surprising resurgence decades later. Featuring key interviews and rare footage, this documentary reveals the film's impact and why it remains a beloved classic for a generation.
Directed by Eric Kimelton, Christopher NinnessCast Christopher NinnessDisney Plus -
11
Pets
documentary
Worldwide stories of human-animal bonds, following pet owners and rescuers with dogs, cats, pigs, goats and birds of prey. Features interviews, archives and viral clips showing people's connections with their animals.
Directed by Bryce Dallas HowardDisney Plus -
12
Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour - The Final Show
documentary · music
Filmed at the end of the tour in Vancouver, B.C., with the entire Tortured Poets Department set.
Directed by Glenn WeissCast Taylor Swift, Mike Meadows, Max Bernstein, Paul Sidoti, Amos HellerDisney Plus -
13
The Space Race
documentary · biography
Uncover the little-known stories of the first Black pilots, engineers and scientists seeking to break the bonds of social injustice to reach for the stars, including Guion Bluford, Ed Dwight and Charles Bolden among many others.
Directed by Lisa Cortes, Diego Hurtado de MendozaCast Guion Bluford, Ed Dwight Jr., Charles BoldenDisney Plus -
14
Let It Be
documentary · music
A documentary chronicling the Beatles' rehearsal sessions in January 1969 for their proposed "back to basics" album, "Get Back," later re-envisioned and released as "Let It Be."
Directed by Michael Lindsay-HoggCast John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Ringo Starr, Billy PrestonDisney Plus -
15
The Pope: Answers
documentary
Ten young people from all over the world meet in Rome with Pope Francis with the aim of talking and conveying to him the main concerns of their generation. What awaits them is an unprecedented meeting, a face-to-face conversation, and a unique event.
Directed by Marius Sánchez, Jordi ÉvoleCast Pope FrancisHuluDisney Plus -
16
The Real Red Tails
documentary
Documenting the recovery of a Tuskegee Airman's downed WWII plane in Lake Huron and uncovering its 80-year-old mystery through underwater archaeology, firsthand accounts, and footage of the wreck.
Cast Sheryl Lee RalphDisney Plus -
17
Elton John: Never Too Late
documentary · biography · music
Sir Elton John looks back on his life and the astonishing early days of his 50-year career in this emotionally charged, full-circle journey. As he prepares for his final concert in North America at Dodger Stadium, Elton takes us back in time and recounts his struggles with adversity, abuse, and addiction, and how he overcame them to become the icon he is today.
Directed by R.J. Cutler, David FurnishCast Elton John, Bernie Taupin, Dua Lipa, John Lennon, David FurnishDisney Plus -
18
Jaws @ 50: The Definitive Inside Story
documentary
The authorized documentary celebrating the film that redefined Hollywood, 50 years after its premiere. Featuring rare archival footage and interviews with acclaimed Hollywood directors alongside Steven Spielberg, top shark scientists, and conservationists, the film uncovers the behind-the-scenes chaos and how the film launched the summer blockbuster, inspired a new wave of filmmakers, and paved the way for shark conservation that continues today.
Directed by Laurent BouzereauCast Steven Spielberg, Cameron Crowe, Jordan Peele, Steven Soderbergh, Carl GottliebDisney Plus -
19
Operation Arctic Cure
documentary
War reporter Bob Woodruff leads veterans on an Arctic expedition to test a cure for post-traumatic stress and depression: the experience of awe in nature. As they trek across one of the world’s most dramatic and pristine wildernesses, researchers monitor changes to their physical and emotional well-being. Could this be the medicine they’ve been looking for?
Directed by Lucian ReadCast Bob WoodruffDisney Plus -
20
Madu
documentary · biography
From practicing barefoot on the streets of Lagos to performing on stage in England, twelve year old Anthony Madu leaves his home in Nigeria to study at one of the most prestigious ballet schools in the world. Anthony, who had barely left his neighborhood in Lagos, finds himself thrust into a new world where his wildest dream is suddenly within reach. His journey is a story of extraordinary obstacles, courage, growth, and ultimately, his search for belonging.
Directed by Matthew Ogens, Joel Kachi BensonDisney Plus
Wrapping Up
This roundup is built to help you quickly spot the most compelling nonfiction films available on Disney Plus, whether you want high-stakes survival, environmental storytelling, or a deep dive into movie music. Titles like Fly, The Rescue, and Music by John Williams prove there’s more here than standard documentaries, with enough variety to suit different moods. Bookmark this page and come back when you need a new watch, because it’s updated regularly as the library changes. If you enjoy learning something new while still getting a strong cinematic payoff, this is the place to start.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often is this list updated?
We refresh this list regularly as titles are added or removed from streaming catalogs, so rankings and availability stay current.
Do I need a Disney Plus subscription to watch these?
Yes — every title on this list is currently available on Disney Plus. Availability can change, so we recommend checking the streaming link on each title before you start watching.
How are these documentary movies ranked?
We rank by a combination of audience rating and current popularity, so you're seeing the documentary titles people are actually watching right now, not just an old fixed list.
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Last updated: September 8, 2026