How to Get Your Documentary on Netflix and Other Streaming Platforms

If you're wondering how to get your documentary on Netflix or other streaming platforms, you've come to the right place. Netflix is one of the biggest players in streaming content, and landing a deal with them can mean massive exposure. However, getting your film on Netflix isn't straightforward—they don't accept direct submissions from individuals. Here’s how you can increase your chances and make your documentary stand out.

1. Understand What Netflix Wants

Netflix is always searching for fresh, compelling documentary content. But to get on Netflix, you need to know what they’re looking for:

Big Characters

Memorable people who leave a lasting impression, like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez in "Knock Down the House" or Joe Exotic in "Tiger King".

High Stakes

Stories that carry serious risks, conflicts, or investigations—think defying death (Free Solo), facing scandal (Operation Varsity Blues), or exposing corruption (The Panama Papers).

Exclusive Access

A story no one else can tell, with unique access that’s hard to replicate. Netflix wants exclusivity in your footage and depth that isn’t available elsewhere. For example, in "My Octopus Teacher", the filmmaker's exclusive and intimate relationship with the octopus provided a level of depth and personal insight that no other film could replicate.

A Realistic Budget

Netflix works with a wide range of budgets. Your proposal should be well-costed, ranging from small-budget ($100k) to big-budget productions ($1m+), depending on the scope and the talent involved.

2. How to Pitch Your Documentary to Netflix

Netflix does not accept unsolicited submissions, so to get your project in front of Netflix decision-makers, you need to work with a trusted gatekeeper. Here are some of the most effective ways:

Get an Agent

Agents have established relationships with Netflix and other streamers. They know what the platforms are looking for and can guide your pitch to increase its chances of success. Top agencies include WME, CAA, and UTA.

Partner with a Distributor

Distributors pitch content to Netflix regularly. They’re always seeking new projects for their catalog. Distributors can help you with Netflix and also other streaming platforms that may be a better fit for your documentary. For example, Magnolia Pictures and Gravitas Ventures are well-known distributors that have successfully placed documentaries on major streaming platforms, including Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hulu.
 

Collaborate with an A-List Producer

Netflix prefers to work with established names. Partnering with an experienced producer who has a proven track record with Netflix can give you a significant advantage. You may lose some creative control, but your chances of success will improve. For example, "Our Planet" was produced by Silverback Films, a company with a reputation for creating high-quality wildlife documentaries, which played a key role in securing a deal with Netflix.

3. Essential Pitch Tools for Netflix

To make your project attractive to Netflix, you need three essential components:

Pitch Deck

A concise document summarising your story, characters, access, and visual approach. Include everything from a synopsis to exclusive agreements with your subjects. To help put together a documentary pitch for your documentary project, I've put together a free documentary treatment template that you can access here: Documentary Pitch Deck Template

Sizzle Reel

A 3-5 minute video showcasing the main characters, the story arc, and the core essence of your documentary. It should feel like a movie trailer but go deeper into why this story matters.

Exclusive Agreements

Have the necessary agreements to show you have exclusive rights to the story and full access required to complete your documentary.

4. Consider Other Streaming Platforms

If Netflix doesn’t show interest, there are many other streaming platforms that may be a good fit for your documentary. Amazon Prime, Hulu, HBO Max, and others all have strong documentary segments and are always seeking fresh content. Most of these platforms require similar industry connections—agents, distributors, or film festivals.

5. How Film Festivals Can Help Get Your Documentary on Netflix

One of the best ways to get noticed by Netflix and other streaming services is through film festivals. Major festivals like Sundance, Tribeca, or DOC NYC are attended by buyers and streaming executives. Festivals are an opportunity to showcase your film and connect with the right people—agents, distributors, or even Netflix representatives who may take an interest in your project.

This is exactly how "The Eagle Huntress", a documentary I worked on, got sold. "The Eagle Huntress" was accepted into the Sundance Film Festival. There were several interested buyers who saw the film at the festival, and in the end, Sony Pictures Classics acquired the rights.

6. How Much Does Netflix Pay for Documentaries?

The amount Netflix pays for documentaries varies depending on the project’s scope, exclusivity, and talent involved. Typical budgets can range from USD$300,000 for a shorter documentary to USD$1.5 million or more for a multi-episode series or feature-length film. High-profile documentaries featuring A-list producers or well-known subjects can command even higher fees.

7. Be Ready for Tough Questions

Netflix executives are known for their detailed scrutiny of documentary pitches. Be prepared to answer questions like:

• What makes this story unique?
• Why is this documentary relevant now?
• How will this project engage a global audience?

The more prepared you are, the better your chances of making a lasting impression.

Final Thoughts on Getting Your Documentary on Netflix

Getting a documentary on Netflix is challenging, but certainly not impossible. It requires the right connections, a solid pitch, and a unique, compelling story. Teaming up with experienced industry players, agents, or distributors can give you a significant advantage. However, even if Netflix says no, there are plenty of other options available. Many streaming platforms like Amazon Prime, Hulu, and HBO Max are always looking for fresh content.

And remember, Netflix might not be the best fit for every project. Today, we have access to powerful streaming platforms like YouTube, where you can release your documentary directly to viewers without needing permission from gatekeepers. Unlike the past, when a few decision-makers controlled what content reached the public, now nothing stops you from connecting directly with your audience. If you believe in your story, you can share it with the world on your own terms. The power is in your hands.