NBC News Originals

Watch NBC News Originals

  • 2014

NBC News Originals is a documentary series produced by the American broadcast network, NBC. The series showcases in-depth and investigative reporting on various issues that shape our world. The episodes are released periodically and delve into different subjects, ranging from social issues, politics, healthcare, climate change, and much more.

Each episode of NBC News Originals features expert reporting and compelling storytelling that dives deep into the topics in question. With veterans of NBC's news team, the show aims to provide viewers with unbiased and accurate information on complex and important issues.

The show features a wide range of topics but has taken particular interest in issues of social justice and the criminal justice system. The episode "America's Broken Bail System" explores how people in poverty or communities of color often have unfair treatment in the criminal justice system, where they are unable to pay bail and are jailed awaiting trial. The documentary exposes the flaws of a system that punishes poor people more than wealthier citizens, and the impact of this on society. Another episode, "Prisoners and Politics," takes a closer look at how the prison system has become highly politicized, reflecting on how politicians who promote "tough on crime" policies have contributed to its deterioration.

The series has also tackled significant political themes such as the 2020 United States Presidential election, highlighting the stark differences between candidates and how those differences are viewed by voters. As part of its coverage of the election, NBC News Originals also explored how the COVID-19 pandemic affected the normal ways in which Americans voted, with an episode titled "Voting in a Pandemic."

Climate change is another topic that NBC News Originals provides insight into, with the episode "Rising Seas, Vanishing Islands" exploring the impacts of rising sea levels on Pacific Islands. The show also delves into the impact of fracking on the environment and the communities affected by it. The episode "Big Oil, Bad Air" exposes how the oil and gas industry has polluted the air while evading Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations, and how it continues to have powerful allies in Washington.

In addition, the show also dives deep into healthcare issues in the US, tackling subjects such as the opioid crisis and how insurance companies are limiting access to critical cancer treatments. The episode "Addicted to Fentanyl" is an investigative report on the synthetic opioid epidemic, delving into how people become addicted and the harsh realities of trying to beat the addiction. While "Denied" highlights the insurance industry and its extensive prior authorizations that deny life-saving treatments to patients simply because of cost.

Overall, NBC News Originals is a well-produced and informative documentary series that provides insightful reporting on some of the most important issues of our time. It sheds light on vital issues and injustices in our society, going beyond news to bring viewers a more profound understanding of topics that matter most. With in-depth analysis and expert reporting, NBC News Originals delivers an intelligent and insightful perspective on the topics that shape our world.