44 Must-Watch Social Justice TV Shows for Smart Binge-Watching

Why You Should Watch Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj is a must-watch TV comedy show that seamlessly blends humor with insightful analysis of contemporary political and cultural issues. Premiering in 2018, this Netflix-produced show is hosted by Hasan Minhaj, a former correspondent of The Daily Show. Minhaj's unique comedic style and sharp commentary make each episode both entertaining and enlightening. The show features well-researched segments, comedic monologues, and satirical elements, offering a fresh perspective on complex topics. It’s not only a pioneer as the first weekly talk show hosted by an Indian-American but also highly acclaimed, winning awards like the Primetime Emmy for its outstanding motion design. With its engaging presentation, diverse soundtrack, and Minhaj's personal touch, Patriot Act offers an unparalleled viewing experience that educates while it entertains. Whether you’re looking to stay informed or just have a good laugh, this show is for you!

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Mayor of Kingstown is a riveting crime drama series that premiered in 2021, setting a high bar with its raw portrayal of power, corruption, and inequality. Created by Taylor Sheridan and Hugh Dillon and starring Jeremy Renner, Dianne Wiest, and Kyle Chandler, the series delves into the murky operations of the Buchanan family in Kingstown, Michigan, a town dominated by its prison industry. Renners compelling performance as Mike McCluskey, coupled with Wiests emotional depth and Chandlers stoic presence, offers a gripping examination of systemic issues entwined with human stories. The realistic take on prison life and race dynamics makes it a standout in the genre. Its powerful dialogue, high-stake scenarios, and atmospheric soundtrack—featuring tracks like My Kingdom by Echo & The Bunnymen—ensure viewers are on the edge of their seats. Filmed in Toronto, this series offers a fresh yet gritty perspective worth watching.

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Harlan County, U.S.A. is an unmissable documentary that captures the gritty and intense reality of the 1973 Brookside Strike in Harlan County, Kentucky. Directed by Barbara Kopple, this film provides a deeply human look at the 180 brave coal miners and their wives fighting for better working conditions and, essentially, their survival against the powerful Duke Power Company. The raw footage, collected over years amidst threats and violence, offers an unflinching portrayal of the miners struggle, making it both a historical document and a gripping story. Viewers should watch Harlan County, U.S.A. to gain insight into the harrowing lives of these courageous workers. The film's compelling narrative, evocative scenes, and award-winning quality—culminating in an Oscar for Best Documentary Feature—make it a powerful and enduring testament to human resilience. With iconic music like Which Side Are You On? shaping its tone, this documentary is as poignant as it is educational.

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Mann V. Ford is a powerful and compelling HBO documentary released in 2011 that delves into one of the largest environmental justice cases in American history. Directed by Maro Chermayeff and Micah Fink, this film exposes the devastating consequences faced by the Ramapough Mountain Indians after Ford Motor Company dumped toxic wastes in their community. The documentary provides an in-depth investigation through interviews, historical footage, and court documents, spotlighting the relentless fight led by Wayne Mann and supported by social worker Vicki Yeager. Viewers should watch Mann V. Ford for its riveting portrayal of resilience against corporate negligence and the heart-wrenching human impact of environmental injustice. The evocative score by John E. Low and David Majzlin, along with poignant quotes from Wayne Mann, further enriches this narrative. It’s not just a film—it's a call to awareness about accountability and the ongoing struggle for justice in marginalized communities.

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