Introduction
Inspiration is a big part of every designer’s journey, helping them create work that innovates and fascinates. Fortunately, there are many excellent Netflix documentaries that inspire designers to create more art and help them continuously grow professionally. Netflix documentaries have rapidly become go-to resources for designers looking to deepen their understanding of design history, creative personalities, and the nuances of visual storytelling.
Whether you’re a graphic designer, product designer, or simply a creative enthusiast, here are the top 10 Netflix documentaries every designer should watch. These carefully selected films and series provide a rich perspective on the world of design, introducing you to influential creators, unique processes, and the history behind iconic visuals. For those interested in improving their design toolkit, you might also enjoy our guide on “UI Color Palette Metrics: A Guide to Generating Stunning Designs.” Let’s explore the world of Netflix documentaries that reintroduce inspiration.
1. Abstract: The Art of Design (IMDb: 8.3/10)
Overview: Known as a designer’s must-watch, Abstract goes beyond typical design discussions, offering an intimate look at the processes of some of the world’s top designers across various fields.
Key Takeaway: From Christoph Niemann’s illustrative brilliance to Tinker Hatfield’s impact on footwear, the series showcases how each designer combines passion with process.
Why Watch: Every designer seems to have watched this series. If you want to connect with others in the design world, Abstract is a great starting point for inspiration and a conversation starter.
2. The Creative Indians (IMDb: 8.3/10)
Overview: This series spotlights Indian creatives across various mediums—filmmakers, artists, designers, and musicians—who bring their culture into the global design landscape.
Key Takeaway: For designers seeking diverse influences, The Creative Indians offers lessons in cultural interpretation and artistry.
Why Watch: The documentary underscores the importance of cultural storytelling, which is crucial in today’s globalized design world. If you’re curious about balancing color choices that are both culturally relevant and pleasing to the eye, check out “How to Choose Website Colors That Are Not Eye-Irritating.”
3. Struggle: The Life and Lost Art of Szukalski (IMDb: 7.9/10)
Overview: This documentary delves into the enigmatic life of Polish artist Stanislav Szukalski, exploring his art, struggles, and enduring passion.
Key Takeaway: Szukalski’s story reveals the fine line between art and obsession, serving as both a cautionary and inspiring tale for creatives.
Why Watch: This documentary appeals to designers drawn to surrealism, history, and the strength of individuality in art.
4. The Toys That Made Us (IMDb: 7.9/10)
Overview: The Toys That Made Us offers a nostalgic look at iconic toys like Barbie, LEGO, and G.I. Joe, examining their design, marketing, and cultural impact.
Key Takeaway: This series provides an engaging lesson in brand legacy, nostalgia, and innovation—an ideal mix for product designers.
Why Watch: For designers interested in branding and product development, this series covers essential themes.
5. The Andy Warhol Diaries (IMDb: 7.9/10)
Overview: Based on Warhol’s published diaries, this series explores his life, art, and cultural influence.
Key Takeaway: Warhol’s work defied norms and embraced commercialization, encouraging today’s designers to push boundaries.
Why Watch: This is a masterclass in combining personal vision with societal expectations, perfect for designers focused on pop culture and social influence.
6. Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things (IMDb: 6.6/10)
Overview: This documentary delves into the minimalist movement, showing how “less is more” applies not only to personal lives but also to design philosophies.
Key Takeaway: Minimalism is a major trend in design, and this film provides essential insights into its principles.
Why Watch: A must-watch for UX/UI designers, product designers, and anyone aiming to simplify their work. For a closer look at minimalist design techniques, our blog on “What Are Monospaced Fonts? 7 Best Use Cases” can provide some helpful insights.
7. Inside Bill’s Brain: Decoding Bill Gates (IMDb: 7.8/10)
Overview: Though not solely design-focused, this documentaries explores Gates’ problem-solving strategies, offering valuable insights into design thinking and creative problem-solving.
Key Takeaway: Designers can learn from Gates’ methods in analysis, iteration, and innovation.
Why Watch: Gates’ approach to complex challenges serves as a model for designers looking to blend creativity with functionality.
8.Philip Guston: A Life Lived (IMDb: 8.2/10)
Overview: While not exclusively about design, this documentary explores the abstract expressionism movement, a key influence on modern design aesthetics.
Key Takeaway: Abstract expressionism’s emphasis on experimentation mirrors today’s design innovations.
Why Watch: An excellent choice for designers interested in color theory, form, and the emotional power of visual design.
9. Helvetica (IMDb: 7.2/10)
Overview: Helvetica takes an in-depth look at typography, examining its relationship with culture, design, and history—making it essential for graphic designers.
Key Takeaway: This documentary reveals the subtle yet profound impact of typefaces on user perception and branding.
Why Watch: Typography is a vital tool for designers, and Helvetica provides a valuable perspective on this often-overlooked element.
10. Platon: Photography (IMDb: 8.4/10)
Overview: This special episode of Abstract focuses on photography, exploring its importance in visual communication and brand storytelling.
Key Takeaway: Photography captures moments and tells stories, enhancing many aspects of design.
Why Watch: Essential for designers interested in visual storytelling, this episode covers fundamentals like composition and lighting.
Conclusion
Each of these “Netflix documentaries” not only offers a unique perspective on art and design but also provides practical insights into how designers can boost their creativity to produce effective, meaningful work. As these films show, design is as much about seeing as it is about creating. So grab some popcorn, fire up Netflix, and let these documentaries fuel your design inspiration!