Must-Watch Hard-Hitting TV Shows on Hulu

Student Athlete is a crucial 2018 HBO documentary that exposes the exploitation of collegiate athletes by the NCAA. Co-directed by Trish Dalton and Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy and executive produced by LeBron James, this film provides a deep dive into the lives of several student-athletes. It highlights the stark contrast between the enormous revenue generated by college sports and the lack of compensation for the athletes, who struggle to balance academics and sports. Featuring figures like John Shoop and Silas Nacita, the documentary uncovers the harsh realities of the NCAA system, such as the push for athletes to choose less challenging majors and their financial hardships despite their contributions. With its engaging storytelling and eye-opening revelations, Student Athlete compels viewers to reconsider the ethics of collegiate athletics and the urgent need for reform.

More about Student Athlete

---

Crime + Punishment, directed by Stephen Maing, is a powerful and illuminating documentary that provides a rare glimpse into the lives of whistle-blower cops in New York City. This film chronicles the courageous efforts of the NYPD12 and private investigator Manny Gomez as they expose the detrimental effects of arrest and summons quotas on minority communities. Through Maings immersive verité camerawork and thoughtfully-placed surveillance footage, the documentary offers an unvarnished look at the ethical struggles within the policing system. The film’s compelling narrative, bolstered by firsthand accounts and original music by Brendon Anderegg and Caleb Burhans, engages viewers emotionally and intellectually. Recognized with the U.S. Documentary Special Jury Award for Social Impact at Sundance, Crime + Punishment is not just a documentary but a call to awareness and action. It's an essential watch for anyone interested in justice, ethics, and systemic reform.

More about Crime + Punishment

---

Ray Donovan is a must-watch drama series that captivates audiences with its intricate storytelling, complex characters, and stellar performances. Centered around Ray Donovan, a fixer with a troubled past, the show artfully balances his professional finesse in solving clients problems with his personal struggles and family dynamics. Created by Ann Biderman and aired on Showtime from 2013 to 2020, the series offers a rich narrative set against the backdrop of Los Angeles, although it was filmed in both California and New York. Liev Schreiber delivers a compelling portrayal of Ray, with Jon Voight as his tumultuous father, Mickey, adding further depth to the family saga. The series is a treasure trove of talent, featuring standout performances from Eddie Marsan and Dash Mihok. Garnering multiple awards and nominations, including a Golden Globe for Voight, Ray Donovan immerses viewers in a gripping, emotional journey. Its diverse soundtrack and notable guest stars only enhance the experience, making it essential viewing for drama aficionados.

More about Ray Donovan

---

More about Life of Crime 2

---

The Professional Fighters League (PFL), established in 2017, offers a revolutionary take on mixed martial arts (MMA) by structuring its competition into a regular season, playoffs, and a championship. Unlike traditional MMA, the PFL blends high-quality production with an emphasis on the human stories behind the fighters, showcasing their struggles, preparation, and journeys to elite status. Co-created by Donn Davis, Russ Ramsey, and Mark Leschly, the series features insightful commentary from the charismatic president Ray Sefo, and former MMA fighter Sean OConnell. Unique to the PFL, viewers can enjoy the worlds first MMA league presented through a seasonal format, enhancing the competitive drama. With live broadcasts on ESPN2 and ESPN+ and captivating behind-the-scenes content, the PFL provides an unparalleled glimpse into the raw emotions and physicality of MMA. This innovative approach, coupled with its engaging personal narratives, makes the PFL a must-watch for sports enthusiasts and MMA fans alike.

More about Professional Fighters League

---

Meth Storm is a gripping 2017 documentary that sheds light on the devastating methamphetamine crisis in rural America, focusing on impoverished regions of Arkansas. This emotionally charged film, directed by award-winning filmmakers Brent and Craig Renaud, immerses viewers in the stark reality faced by both addicts and the law enforcement trying to curb the epidemic. Featuring real-life individuals rather than professional actors, the raw and authentic portrayal adds a deeper layer of impact, highlighting the human struggle behind the statistics. Through the harrowing stories of Veronica, a struggling drug user, and Johnny, a determined DEA agent, Meth Storm offers a poignant and intimate look at the far-reaching consequences of addiction. The understated music further intensifies the raw, unfiltered depiction of these communities. Watching Meth Storm is essential for anyone seeking to understand the human toll of drug addiction and the urgent need for empathy and action in addressing this crisis.

More about Meth Storm

---

The Trade, a 2018 Showtime docuseries, offers a harrowing and intimate perspective on the opioid crisis. Directed by Matthew Heineman, known for Cartel Land, the series captures the raw, unfiltered realities of the drug trade. It uniquely covers all fronts—from addicts and their families to law enforcement and cartel operatives—providing a comprehensive understanding of this ongoing epidemic. With its gripping storytelling and real-life portrayals, The Trade serves as an eye-opening experience, urging viewers to face the multifaceted human struggles behind the statistics. Dont miss this compelling series if you seek to understand the depth and breadth of one of todays most pressing issues.

More about The Trade

---

More about Amaraica (Span Sub)

---

Why You Should Watch Flesh and Bone (TV) Flesh and Bone, which premiered on Starz in 2015, offers an immersive dive into the competitive world of professional ballet, unveiling the stark contrast between the art's grace and the underlying dark realities. Centered around Claire Robbins, a gifted yet troubled ballet dancer portrayed by Sarah Hay, the series captures her journey in a prestigious New York ballet company. Created by Moira Walley-Beckett of Breaking Bad fame, the show masterfully blends the elegance of ballet with intense psychological drama. The cast's performances are standout, especially Hay’s nuanced depiction of Claire and Ben Daniels’ compelling turn as the volatile artistic director, Paul Grayson. Real ballet talent like Irina Dvorovenko lends authenticity, while Ethan Stiefel’s choreography elevates the dance sequences. With its rich storytelling, powerful performances, and breathtaking dance, Flesh and Bone is a must-watch for those who appreciate intricate character studies and the enigmatic world of ballet.

More about Flesh And Bone (TV)

---

Shut Up and Dribble is a compelling 2018 documentary series that delves into the evolving roles of athletes, especially NBA stars, in the sociopolitical landscape. Produced by LeBron James and narrated by Jemele Hill, the series offers a powerful exploration of sports figures transcending the court to become influential voices in societal issues. The provocative title was inspired by conservative pundit Laura Ingrahams comment directed at LeBron, highlighting the contentious intersection between sports and politics. With insightful interviews, archival footage, and dynamic animated sequences, the series isnt just about basketball; its a reflection on the broader cultural and social impact athletes wield. Directed by Gotham Chopra and featuring an evocative score by Adam Dorn, Shut Up and Dribble is not just entertainment—its an urgent call to recognize and appreciate the significant roles that athletes play in shaping important conversations in todays world.

More about Shut Up and Dribble

---

Rock and a Hard Place is a powerful 2017 documentary executively produced by Dwayne The Rock Johnson that sheds light on a transformative program for incarcerated youth at the Miami-Dade County Boot Camp Prison. Directed by Rasha Drachkovitch and Matthew ONeill, the film doesnt shy away from the harsh realities faced by these young men but also offers a beacon of hope. Featuring Johnson, who shares his own life challenges, the documentary provides a raw, inspirational narrative about second chances and redemption. With over 11,000 program graduates, it showcases the potential for profound, positive change. The films unflinching honesty, combined with its emotional soundtrack, makes it a must-watch for anyone interested in the human capacity for growth and change.

More about Rock and a Hard Place

---

Killing Them Softly is a gripping 2012 neo-noir crime film directed by Andrew Dominik and based on George V. Higgins novel Cogans Trade. Set against the backdrop of post-Hurricane Katrina New Orleans, the story follows mob enforcer Jackie Cogan, played by Brad Pitt, as he navigates the chaotic underworld to restore order after a heist disrupts the local criminal economy. Dominiks reflection on the 2007-2008 economic crisis and Obamas presidency adds a rich, thought-provoking layer to the narrative. With standout performances from a talented cast, including Richard Jenkins and Ray Liotta, the film skillfully blends intense action with profound commentary on American society. Shot beautifully by Greig Fraser, the atmospheric visuals and a compelling soundtrack—including Johnny Cash's The Man Comes Around—enhance the viewing experience. Nominated for the prestigious Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival, Killing Them Softly is a must-watch for fans of thought-provoking, elegantly crafted cinema.

More about Killing Them Softly

---

More about Mike

---

More about The Crime of the Century

---

More about Girl in the Basement

---

Kingpin, a 2018 documentary series, is a captivating exploration of some of historys most notorious crime lords. This gripping series, produced by Raw and aired on the History Channel, delves deeply into the rise and fall of infamous drug kingpins, bringing their stories to life through a seamless blend of archival footage and dramatic recreations. What sets Kingpin apart is its rigorous research and compelling storytelling. Each episode provides an in-depth look at different crime figures from various eras and regions, making it an educational yet thrilling watch. With standout performances by Toto Castineiras as Amado Carrillo Fuentes, Duncan Clyde as Lord Louis Mountbatten, and Benny Safdie as Pablo Escobar, the series humanizes these complex characters while maintaining their menacing aura. Director BJ Golnick's skillful integration of historical narratives with modern storytelling techniques, enhanced by a hauntingly dramatic score, makes Kingpin a series that not only informs but also captivates. If you're a fan of true crime and riveting narratives, Kingpin offers an unparalleled experience.

More about Kingpin

---

Notes from the Field is a must-watch for anyone seeking to understand the intricate and often heartbreaking realities of Americas education and justice systems. Brought to life by the incredibly talented Anna Deavere Smith, this film delves into the school-to-prison pipeline through captivating portrayals based on hundreds of real-life interviews. Directed by Kristi Zea and produced by HBO Films, Smith seamlessly embodies multiple characters, offering diverse perspectives that are both enlightening and thought-provoking. The films powerful narrative, combined with Marcus Shelbys evocative soundtrack, creates an emotional and immersive experience. By highlighting the challenges faced by marginalized communities, Notes from the Field calls for urgent reflection and conversations on equity and justice. Watch it to witness masterful storytelling and to gain a deeper understanding of an alarming social issue that demands attention.

More about Notes From the Field

---