Oscars nominations are here, and while Sentimental Value and Sinners dominate much of the fiction race with multiple acting, directing, and technical nominations, it is the nonfiction genre that has quietly asserted itself as one of this year’s most compelling competitions. The Best Documentary Feature lineup reflects a remarkable range of real-world stories, from systemic injustice in The Alabama Solution to personal resilience of Mr. Nobody Against Putin, that break through the noise of mainstream cinema.

For documentary fans, these nominations are an invitation to engage deeply with narratives that challenge, educate, and illuminate. Yet while buzz and awards chatter swirl, the practical question remains: How can audiences watch these films? 

The five films nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the 98th Academy Awards are The Alabama Solution, Come See Me in the Good Light, Cutting Through the Rocks, Mr. Nobody Against Putin, and The Perfect Neighbor. All earned their nominations amid a crowded field of influential nonfiction films screened at Sundance, DocsBarcelona, and other major festivals throughout 2025.

Among them, The Perfect Neighbor and The Alabama Solution have generated strong critical momentum, the former for its powerful examination of a controversial stand-your-ground case in Florida, and the latter for its harrowing exposé of mass incarceration in the US prison system. Cutting Through Rocks stands out for its international perspective on grassroots political change, while Mr. Nobody Against Putin offers a unique, ground-level look at life under state propaganda.

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While some of these Oscar-nominated documentaries are already available on Netflix, others are scattered across different platforms, so here is a complete guide on where to watch.

Directed by Geeta Gandbhir, The Perfect Neighbor examines a fatal shooting of Ajike Owens in Florida by Susan Lorincz, a middle-aged white woman. Its aftermath is a legal battle, probing societal and legal questions about self-defense laws. This film is available on Netflix, where it was released in late 2025 and quickly became one of the most-watched documentaries in the US

Directed by Andrew Jarecki and Charlotte Kaufman, The Alabama Solution exposes systemic abuse and corruption within Alabama’s prisons, using footage filmed covertly by incarcerated individuals. The documentary premiered at Sundance and was released on HBO Max in late 2025. It may also be available for rental on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV depending on region.

This documentary, directed by Ryan White and others, takes an intimate look at personal identity, disability, and artistic expression of American poet and activist Andrea Gibson. While official streaming details vary by territory, films of this profile often appear on platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, or PBS after festival runs; check local listings or festival VOD options for availability.

Directed by Sara Khaki and Mohammadreza Eyni, Cutting Through Rocks follows the first elected female council member, Sara Shahverdi in a rural Iranian village, blending social progress with personal narrative. Following its Sundance premiere, regional distribution may include VOD platforms like Kanopy or Festival Scope.

Directed by David Borenstein and featuring filmmaker Pavel Talankin’s own experiences, this documentary explores state influence and indoctrination during wartime. As of early 2026, Mr. Nobody Against Putin is listed on Apple TV for purchase or rental. 

While the fiction genre of the Oscars sees many snubs and misses, the 2026 Oscar documentary slate offers both breadth and depth, with films that inform, disrupt, and stay with viewers long after the credits roll. 

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Which documentary are you most excited to watch or think will win? Share your thoughts and viewing tips in the comments.