As a lifelong fan of true crime stories, I must say that this collection of shows and documentaries is nothing short of captivating! Each one offers a unique glimpse into the lives of individuals who found themselves embroiled in some of the most intriguing and complex situations imaginable.
It’s clear as day that true-crime narratives are ubiquitous, showing up in podcasts, television shows, and movies. The fascination with them doesn’t appear to be waning any time soon. _The Hollywood Reporter_ has rounded up a selection of the latest true-crime series and films that can be streamed online for your viewing pleasure.
Over the past few years, these popular TV series and films have amassed over 60 Emmy nominations. An additional 19 nods are expected this year for Griselda, Under the Bridge, The Jinx – Part Two, and, while not strictly a true-crime series, Feud: Capote vs. the Swans.
As a true-crime enthusiast myself, I was intrigued by recent findings from a 2022 YouGov poll. It turns out that nearly half of fellow Americans share my passion for delving into the world of crime and justice. Among these fans, one third confessed to weekly viewings, while one quarter admitted to rewatching true-crime series and films multiple times per week.
Given the growing fascination with real-life crime tales, people looking for immersive experiences in their entertainment are drawn to such content. Consequently, it’s not surprising to see an increasing number of documentary series debuting on various streaming services.
It seems that many people are attracted to the true crime genre for several reasons, one of which is the familiar story structure that offers a sense of comfort, as suggested by Jean Kim, M.D. People may also be captivated by its strong moral messages and the reminder it provides of their own good fortune at times.
Discover below a collection of 35 true-crime series or shows with similar themes, available for streaming on platforms such as Max, Netflix, Hulu, and others.
‘The Vow’
Streaming on MAX, “The Vow” delves into the emotional repercussions experienced by past members of NXIVM, a self-help organization, following their ordeals within this group whose leader, Keith Raniere, was found guilty of crimes such as sex trafficking and racketeering. This documentary series uncovers the personal transformations undergone by the group’s creators, advocates, and dissidents, shedding light on new evidence that emerges over time.
‘Unbelievable’
Drawing inspiration from real events, Netflix’s “Unbelievable” unfolds around Kaitlyn Dever’s character, Marie, who reports being bound, gagged, and raped only to later retract her statement. As the story progresses, detectives portrayed by Merritt Wever and Toni Collette pursue a lead that could uncover the truth in this gripping series.
‘The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story’
“The second part of the ‘American Crime Story’ series is titled The Assassination of Gianni Versace, delving into the tragic murder of the renowned fashion designer by multiple killer Andrew Cunanan. This scripted nine-episode production is inspired by the book Vulgar Favors: Andrew Cunanan, Gianni Versace, and the Unsuccessful Manhunt that Spanned U.S. History.”
‘The Dropout’
The Hulu series “The Dropout,” modeled after the ABC podcast, narrates the true story of Elizabeth Holmes (portrayed by Amanda Seyfried). As the creator and CEO of Theranos, she spearheaded a groundbreaking healthcare technology, which unfortunately exposed millions of users to potential risks during her rise and eventual downfall.
‘The Watcher’
Netflix’s dramatization titled “The Watcher” narrates the story of a married couple, portrayed by Naomi Watts and Bobby Cannavale, who relocate into their ideal home in New Jersey suburbs. However, their tranquility is shattered when they start receiving ominous letters from an anonymous person known as “the Watcher.”
‘A Friend of the Family’
The Peacock series “A Friend of the Family,” based on real events, depicts the harrowing tale of the Brobergs, a family whose youngest child, Jan (McKenna Grace), was abducted on more than one occasion by a supposed friend, portrayed by Jake Lacy. In this chilling account, Robert, played by Lacy, manipulated the Broberg’s trust and managed to turn their daughter against them.
‘Murdaugh Murders: A Southern Scandal’
As a devoted viewer, I can’t help but be captivated by “Murdaugh Murders: A Southern Scandal,” which delves into the tale of a once-respected South Carolina family. Their esteemed lineage starts to crumble following a tragic boating incident and, subsequently, the mysterious deaths of Maggie Murdaugh and her son Paul. This gripping Netflix documentary unearths a century’s worth of deceit, influence, and concealed secrets in the heart of the South.
‘Stolen Youth: Inside the Cult at Sarah Lawrence’
As a former student who once attended Sarah Lawrence College, I have always been captivated by its rich history and diverse community. However, it is with a heavy heart that I must share my thoughts on a dark chapter in the school’s past – the cult led by Larry Ray. Having graduated before this saga unfolded, I can only imagine the terror and confusion that the students endured during those years.
‘Dahmer — Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’
“The Jeffrey Dahmer Story: Dahmer – Monster” portrays the tale of the infamous serial killer, whose criminal activities took place in the Midwest from 1978 to 1991. The scripted program details various occasions where Dahmer nearly got caught before his final conviction and demise.”
‘Unsolved Mysteries’
As a devoted fan, I’ve been captivated by the enduring enigma that is “Unsolved Mysteries.” Originally premiered on NBC from 1987 to 1997, it was later revived on CBS from 1997 to 1999, then Lifetime from 2001 to 2002, Spike from 2008 to 2010, and now streaming on Netflix since 2020. This riveting true-crime docuseries delves into the heart of confounding disappearances, chilling murders, and extraordinary paranormal occurrences, keeping me on the edge of my seat with each episode.
‘Mindhunter’
Netflix’s “Mindhunter” delves into the inception of the Behavioral Analysis Unit within the FBI Academy’s Training Division at Quantico, marking the dawn of criminal profiling. The drama unfolds around characters Holden Ford (played by Jonathan Groff), Bill Tench (portrayed by Holt McCallany) and psychologist Wendy Carr (interpreted by Anna Torv). David Fincher and Charlize Theron are some of the influential minds behind this compelling production.
‘Under the Banner of Heaven’
The Hulu miniseries, “Under the Banner of Heaven: A Story of Violent Faith,” is adapted from Jon Krakauer’s nonfiction book. This series focuses on Andrew Garfield’s character, Jeb Pyre, and Gil Birmingham’s character, Detective Bill Taba, as they delve into an investigation concerning a double murder. The perpetrators of this crime, the Lafferty brothers Ron (played by Sam Worthington) and Dan (portrayed by Wyatt Russell), claimed to have acted in the name of God.
‘Candy’
Hulu’s drama series, titled “Candy,” vividly portrays the real-life tale of Candy Montgomery, a model 1980s housewife and mother who seemed to have everything in order until she engaged in an affair with her neighbor, which ultimately led to a tragic murder. The series featuring Jessica Biel and Melanie Lynskey delves into the events preceding the affair, the illicit relationship, the shocking ax-murder, and the subsequent court trial.
‘Inventing Anna’
Julia Garner portrays the true Anna Delvey in Netflix’s fictional drama series, inspired by the real-life Instagram sensation heiress who captivated and swindled the finances of New York high society.
‘The Act’
Hulu’s drama series titled “The Act” narrates the story of Gypsy Blanchard (Joey King), a young woman attempting to break free from her harmful bond with her overly protective mother, Dee Dee (Patricia Arquette). As she embarks on her journey towards self-reliance, an unsettling truth eventually triggers a fatal act.
‘The Staircase’
Drawing inspiration from real-life events, Max’s television series, titled “The Staircase“, narrates the tale of Michael Peterson, a writer who stands accused of murdering his wife. The tragic incident unfolds when her lifeless body is discovered at the foot of the staircase in their home, initiating a lengthy legal struggle within the family. Amidst this turmoil, a French documentary crew becomes intrigued by the case.
‘The Girl From Plainville’
Elle Fanning assumes the character of Michelle Carter in a Hulu scripted series, which delves into the actual events surrounding the “texting-suicide” case. It examines her interactions with Conrad Roy III, the sequence of events preceding his demise, and ultimately her conviction for involuntary manslaughter.
‘Dopesick’
Michael Keaton is featured in Danny Strong’s Hulu series that delves into the country’s battle against opioid addiction, tracing its roots from Purdue Pharma to the corridors of the Drug Enforcement Administration. Alongside him are Kaitlyn Dever, Rosario Dawson, and Will Poulter in key roles.
‘When They See Us’
Ava DuVernay’s “When They See Us” tells the story of the Central Park Five, a group of five young individuals wrongly accused of assaulting and raping a woman in Central Park in 1989. This Netflix scripted series spans a period of 25 years, starting from their initial interrogations to their eventual exoneration in 2002.
‘Ted Bundy: Falling for a Killer’
Amazon Prime Video’s docuseries “Falling for a Killer” offers a unique female viewpoint on the criminal activities of Ted Bundy, revealing how his misogynistic tendencies intersected with the feminist movement and cultural conflicts during the 1970s, as suggested by the streaming service.
‘Making a Murderer’
Over the span of 13 years, the documentary series Making a Murderer follows the stories of two individuals, Steven Avery and Brendan Dassey, who were found guilty of a tragic crime that they claim they did not commit. The release of this Netflix docuseries sparked public demand for a review of Avery’s case; however, Wisconsin authorities maintain that crucial evidence presented in the series is omitted from their records.
‘Fear City: New York vs. The Mafia’
In the ’70s and ’80s, this Netflix documentary delves into the notorious Five Mafia Families of New York – the Gambinos, Colombos, Bonannos, Luccheses, and Genovese – while a federal task force attempts to dismantle their operations.
‘Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile’
Zac Efron and Lily Collins lead in the Netflix drama titled “Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile“, where Lily’s character Liz develops feelings for Zac’s character Ted Bundy despite his being accused of numerous kidnappings and crimes against women. Supporting actors include Haley Joel Osment, John Malkovich, and Jim Parsons.
‘Welcome to Chippendales’
Hulu’s biographical drama “Welcome to Chippendales” narrates the journey of Kumail Nanjiani’s character, Somen “Steve” Banerjee, a passionate Indian immigrant chasing the American Dream. He later establishes the popular male revue show that swept through culture, however, it’s followed by a series of tragic events, including murders.
‘Narcos’
The Netflix series “Narcos” isn’t purely fictional; instead, it draws heavily on real events related to the escalation of cocaine trafficking in Colombia and the efforts by law enforcement agencies to combat drug-related crimes. The characters portrayed as DEA agents who brought down Pablo Escobar – Steve Murphy and Javier Peña, played by Boyd Holbrook and Pedro Pascal respectively – have confirmed that while some creative liberties are taken, the sequence of events in the show closely follows reality.
‘Truth Be Told’
The fictional show “Truth Be Told” is adapted from Kathleen Barber’s novel “Are You Sleeping.” It centers around Poppy Parnell, a well-known true-crime podcaster, who reexamines the case that brought her fame when fresh evidence emerges, hinting at the possibility of an incorrect conviction. Each season of this AppleTV+ series explores a new set of characters, with Kate Hudson, Aaron Paul, Lizzy Caplan, and the late Ron Cephas Jones among the stars.
‘Night Stalker: The Hunt for a Serial Killer’
Netflix’s documentary series, titled “Night Stalker: The Pursuit of a Serial Killer“, chronicles the efforts of young detective Gil Carrillo and homicide investigator Frank Salerno as they urgently search for the night-time predator who committed a string of murders and sexual assaults in Los Angeles during 1985, which initially appeared to be unconnected incidents.
‘The Case Against Adnan Syed’
As a gamer diving into the world of true crime documentaries, I recently binge-watched HBO’s four-part series that delved into the 1999 murder of Hae Min Lee and the ensuing conviction of her ex-boyfriend Adnan Syed. This case was initially brought to light by the Serial podcast. Interestingly enough, twenty years later, Syed’s murder conviction was overturned, and he walked out of prison a free man.
‘The Ripper’
From 1975 to 1980, in West Yorkshire and Manchester, England, a serial killer named Peter Sutcliffe took the lives of 13 women. A four-part Netflix series delves into the investigation of these murders committed by Sutcliffe, who was known as the Yorkshire Ripper due to his murder methods resembling those of Jack the Ripper.
‘The Trials of Gabriel Fernández’
In the Netflix documentary series titled “The Trials of Gabriel Fernandez“, director Brian Knappenberger delves into the tragic death of an 8-year-old California boy, who suffered abuse at the hands of his mother and her partner. The series raises concerns about whether our protective systems are effectively safeguarding vulnerable children.
‘Griselda’
The Netflix miniseries titled “Griselda” is inspired by the true events surrounding Griselda Blanco, often referred to as the “Cocaine Queen.” Sofía Vergara assumes the lead role, earning her an Emmy nomination and making her the second Latin actress (after Anya Taylor-Joy for “The Queen’s Gambit”) to be nominated in this category for a limited series. Griselda Blanco played a significant role in moving the drug trade from Colombia to the United States, particularly leaving her impact in Miami during the 1970s until the early 2000s.
‘Under the Bridge’
“Under the Bridge” is inspired by the 2005 book with the same title by Rebecca Godfrey, which recounts the real-life events surrounding the murder of 14-year-old Reena Virk (Vritika Gupta) in Canada during the 1990s. The story focuses on a group of six teens known as the “Shoreline Six” who were implicated in her death. Riley Keough takes on the role of a writer, who went back to her hometown of Saanich, British Columbia, to complete a novel she was previously working on. However, she ends up telling the story of the group of teens under scrutiny for Reena’s murder instead. Lily Gladstone, who earned her first Emmy nomination for her role in the series, shares the screen with Keough.
‘The Jinx — Part Two’
The Jinx – Continuation
‘The Truth vs. Alex Jones’
HBO’s documentary chronicles the journey of Alex Jones, a contentious figure in U.S. media, from his rise to fall. It delves into how he constructed an empire, only for it to crumble when he started peddling a conspiracy theory claiming that the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting was a hoax and that the bereaved parents were merely actors. Titled The Truth vs. Alex Jones, this project was filmed over a span of four years and two court trials, culminating in Jones declaring bankruptcy.
‘Feud: Capote vs. the Swans’
The second part of Ryan Murphy’s “Feud” series is inspired by Laurence Leamer’s best-selling book, “Capote’s Women: A True Story of Love, Betrayal, and a Swan Song for an Era.” This story revolves around Truman Capote, portrayed by Tom Hollander, a writer, and the high-society women he associated with in New York City during the 1950s. The cast includes Naomi Watts, Diane Lane, Chloë Sevigny, Calista Flockhart, Demi Moore, and Molly Ringwald for the FX series. Although it’s not a traditional crime drama, “Feud: Capote vs. the Swans” is based on the real-life events involving Capote and his social circle in 1950s New York City.
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2024-08-12 05:56