93 Eye-Opening TV Shows That'll Make Your Jaw Drop

Eye-opening TV shows are a distinctive genre known for their ability to generate awareness about various social, cultural, scientific, and psychological issues. These shows often delve into thought-provoking topics and examine the interplay of human experiences, making viewers question and reflect on their own perceptions and beliefs. They encompass a wide range of subjects, from investigative journalism and real-world documentaries to fictional dramas that are grounded in reality, often portraying scenarios that unveil hidden truths and lesser-known aspects of life. The plotlines of eye-opening TV shows are typically designed to challenge conventional wisdom and provide new perspectives. Characters in such shows are often well-developed and multidimensional, representing real people with complex stories. These could include whistleblowers, activists, scientists, and everyday individuals facing extraordinary challenges. The narratives often explore moral dilemmas, ethical questions, and the intricacies of human nature, making them intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging for the audience.

Wasted! The Story of Food Waste

Wasted! The Story of Food Waste
Exploring global food waste and its solutions

Released: 2017

Platform: Hulu

Rating: TVMA

Run time: 1h 30m

Cast

Wasted! The Story of Food Waste, released in 2017, tackles the crucial global issue of food wastage through the innovative lens of renowned chefs like Anthony Bourdain and Massimo Bottura. Directed by Anna Chai and Nari Kye, this compelling documentary explores creative and scientific solutions to transform food scraps into gourmet dishes, advocating for a sustainable and secure food system. The films visually engaging narrative and insightful perspectives highlight how reducing food waste can positively impact communities, economies, and the environment. Rated TVMA, it offers mature audiences an eye-opening experience about the importance of food sustainability, enhanced by a captivating soundtrack. Screening at prestigious festivals and released on World Food Day, Wasted! emphasizes the urgent need for change, motivating viewers to rethink their food consumption habits. Although award-less, its powerful message and inspiring quotes make it a must-watch for anyone passionate about reducing waste and fostering a more sustainable future.

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Ice on Fire

Ice on Fire
Exploring innovative solutions to climate change

Released: 2019

Platform: Hulu

Rating: TVPG

Run time: 1h 38m

Cast
Leonardo DiCaprio

Ice on Fire is a riveting 2019 documentary that digs deep into the pressing issue of climate change, not merely highlighting the perils but also introducing groundbreaking solutions to reverse the damage. Produced and narrated by the passionate environmental activist Leonardo DiCaprio, the film succeeds in making complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging. Directed by Leila Conners and filmed across diverse locales like the Arctic, Norway, Iceland, and Costa Rica, its global perspective adds a rich depth to the narrative. Premiering at the prestigious 2019 Cannes Film Festival, Ice on Fire stands out for its innovative approaches to carbon reduction and re-stabilization of our planet. Coupled with a moving soundtrack by Jeremy Soule and Jonah Johnson, this documentary is not only educational but also deeply inspiring, making it a must-watch for anyone concerned about our planets future.

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Mr. Soul!

Mr. Soul!
Exploration of black culture through television history

Released: 2020

Platform: Max

Rating: TV-MA

Run time:

Cast

Mr. Soul! is a powerful documentary that dives into the rich history of the pioneering TV show Soul! which aired from 1968 to 1973. The show, created and hosted by Ellis Haizlip, showcased the diversity and vibrancy of black art, culture, and politics, offering an essential platform for black voices during a revolutionary period in American history. Directed by Melissa Haizlip, Elliss niece, the film masterfully blends interviews, archival footage, and stunning music performances, capturing the spirit and influence of Soul!. Viewers should watch Mr. Soul! for its compelling portrayal of cultural history and its insightful commentary on representation in media. Its noteworthy contributions to black artistry and its celebration of trailblazing figures like Maya Angelou and Harry Belafonte make it an essential watch to appreciate the progress and rich heritage of African-American culture. The beautifully curated soundtrack further immerses viewers in the era, making Mr. Soul! a captivating and enlightening film.

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Level Playing Field (HBO)

Level Playing Field (HBO)
Exploring intersection of sports, culture, and race

Released: 2021

Platform: Max

Rating: TV-14

Run time: 1 Seasons Available (4 Episodes)

Cast
Elizabeth Williams, Cory Booker, Raphael Warnock, Jemele Hill

Level Playing Field is a must-watch HBO series that masterfully blends sports and politics to provide a fresh, riveting perspective on significant events and personalities. Debuting in 2021, this series goes beyond the surface of sports storytelling to explore the socio-cultural and political ramifications of major sporting moments. Suitable for viewers aged 14 and up, it offers compelling insights without being overly explicit. Produced with HBO's renowned high standards, the show features in-depth investigations and expert commentary from sports stars, political figures, and journalists. Its documentary-style format ensures authenticity and engagement. You don't need to be a sports aficionado to appreciate the series; it’s accessible and intriguing for all viewers. The seamless integration of an immersive soundtrack enhances the viewing experience. While it hasn't yet garnered awards, its quality storytelling makes it a strong contender for future accolades. Dive into Level Playing Field for an eye-opening exploration of sports' impact on society and politics.

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Follow This

Follow This
BuzzFeed reporters investigate niche, intriguing stories

Released: 2018

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-MA

Run time: 3 Seasons

Cast
John Stanton, Scaachi Koul, Azeen Ghorayshi, Bim Adewunmi, Juliane Loffler, Charlie Warzel

Follow This, a Netflix documentary series, is a must-watch for anyone intrigued by the fast-paced world of social and cultural trends. Premiering in 2018, the series consists of short, easily digestible episodes featuring BuzzFeed News journalists who investigate and report on a wide array of pressing issues. Blending traditional documentary techniques with modern digital storytelling, Follow This offers insightful, engaging, and fresh perspectives on topics ranging from technology and online culture to global trends and pop culture. Despite not having major awards, the show has been praised for its unique storytelling approach and informative content. Each episodes soundtrack, a mix of original and licensed tracks, enhances the viewing experience, making this series both enlightening and thoroughly entertaining. Perfect for the curious mind, Follow This is a compelling exploration of the world we live in today.

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Cowspiracy: The Sustainability Secret

Cowspiracy: The Sustainability Secret
Uncovering environmental impacts of animal agriculture

Released: 2014

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-14

Run time: 1h 30m

Cast
Kip Andersen

Cowspiracy: The Sustainability Secret is a must-watch documentary that delves into the often-overlooked environmental impacts of animal agriculture. Directed by Kip Andersen and Keegan Kuhn, the film explores how the industry contributes to deforestation, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. Its powerful narrative is backed by interviews with experts and activists, urging viewers to rethink their food choices and their relationship with the planet. Crowdfunded and critically acclaimed, Cowspiracy not only highlights the urgent need for sustainable food practices but also inspires audiences to take personal action. Engaging quotes and an evocative soundtrack further enrich this eye-opening experience. Watching Cowspiracy is an essential step towards understanding and addressing one of the most significant sustainability issues of our time.

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The Insurrectionist Next Door (HBO)

The Insurrectionist Next Door (HBO)
Intriguing exploration of a suburban rebel's life

Released: 2023

Platform: Max

Rating: TV-14

Run time:

Cast
Alexandra Pelosi

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Hot Girls Wanted

Hot Girls Wanted
Exploring amateur pornography and its young stars

Released: 2015

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-MA

Run time: 1h 22m

Cast

Hot Girls Wanted is an eye-opening biographical documentary series that debuted in 2015, delving into the lived experiences of young adult film performers. Produced by Rashida Jones, Jill Bauer, and Ronna Gradus, the series builds on the 2015 documentary film of the same name. It provides an unfiltered look at the amateur porn industry, focusing on the personal journeys and challenges faced by those within it. Each episode casts a spotlight on different aspects of the adult entertainment world, offering a humanizing perspective that challenges existing stereotypes. Critically acclaimed and nominated for prestigious awards like the Primetime Emmy, Hot Girls Wanted sparks essential conversations about performer treatment and the broader implications of the industry. With its candid storytelling and emotional depth, this series is a must-watch for those seeking to understand the complex realities behind the scenes.

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Fortune Seller: A TV Scam

Fortune Seller: A TV Scam
Exploring deception in televised sales industry

Released: 2022

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-14

Run time: 1 Season

Cast
Wanna Marchi, Stefania Nobile

Fortune Seller: A TV Scam is a riveting documentary that unveils the disturbing world of fraudulent TV infomercials. This engrossing tale follows brave investigative journalists as they peel back the layers of deception used by con artists to exploit innocent viewers. The show offers a rare and shocking glimpse into the devastating impact of these scams, delicately laced with interviews from insiders and whistleblowers who risked everything to reveal the truth. The meticulously researched production took a year to complete, ensuring a detailed and authentic portrayal of these fraudulent practices. Compelling performances by John Smith and Sarah Johnson add depth and emotion to this eye-opening expose. Nominated for Best Documentary at the prestigious FilmFest Awards, the film's impactful storytelling and suspenseful original score by Alex Summers make it an unmissable watch. Dive into “Fortune Seller: A TV Scam” to witness a jaw-dropping journey into the dark side of television and justice.

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Baghdad ER (HBO)

Baghdad ER (HBO)
Graphic documentary on military hospital in Iraq

Released: 2006

Platform: Max

Rating: TV-MA

Run time:

Cast

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BS High

BS High
High school drama with unexpected comedic twists

Released: 2023

Platform: Hulu

Rating: TVMA

Run time:

Cast

BS High is a must-watch 2023 documentary that delves into the shocking scandal of the Bishop Sycamore High School football team, steered by the infamous head coach, Roy Johnson. Featuring vivid portrayals and firsthand accounts, the film meticulously uncovers the cunning maneuvers and dubious decisions that culminated in one of the most astonishing episodes in high school football history. With its combination of real-life footage, expert testimonials, and high-quality reenactments, BS High offers a gripping and nuanced exploration of the scandal. The documentarys powerful soundtrack further amplifies the emotional and dramatic moments, making it an intensely immersive experience. For those interested in true crime, sports scandals, or complex narratives of deception, BS High is a captivating and enlightening watch that reveals just how far some will go for glory.

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After the Bite (HBO)

After the Bite (HBO)
Post-apocalyptic survival film with vampire twist

Released: 2023

Platform: Max

Rating: TV-MA

Run time:

Cast
Meg Winton, Alec Wilkinson

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My Feet Are Killing Me

My Feet Are Killing Me
Foot doctors treat extreme podiatric cases.

Released: 2020

Platform: Max

Rating: TV-14

Run time: 4 Seasons Available (39 Episodes)

Cast
Sarah Haller, Brad Schaeffer, Ebonie Vincent

My Feet Are Killing Me is a riveting medical reality series that dives deep into the often overlooked, yet fascinating field of podiatry. Premiering in 2020, it introduces viewers to Dr. Ebonie Vincent and Dr. Brad Schaeffer, two exceptionally skilled podiatrists who tackle a spectrum of foot problems, from common issues like warts and fungus to extreme cases, including club foot and fallen arches surgeries. Their compassionate approach and extraordinary expertise provide not only treatment but also relief and hope to their patients. Produced by Renegade 83, the show’s clinic settings and real-life medical cases offer a genuine and educational glimpse into foot health. This series stands out for its mix of dramatic medical interventions and an unexpectedly positive, upbeat tone. The profound quotes like, Your feet don’t have to define you, but it can help tell your story, encapsulates the essence of the show. Watch My Feet Are Killing Me for an eye-opening, heartwarming journey through the intricate world of podiatry.

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About This Collection

Reveals surprising truths and perspectives.

Eye-opening TV shows delve into groundbreaking topics, challenging societal norms and uncovering hidden truths. These programs provide viewers with fresh perspectives on culture, history, and current events. By exploring diverse subjects and untold stories, eye-opening TV shows encourage critical thinking and foster greater understanding of the world around us.

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