52 True Crime Documentary Films
52 titles
- 1
Amanda KnoxMovie · 2016 · 92m · Documentary, CrimeThis compelling documentary details the highly publicized trial, conviction, and later acquittal of Amanda Knox, a Seattle native, for the 2007 murder of a British student who was studying abroad in Italy.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.6 - 2
Mesrine: Public Enemy #1Movie · 2008 · 133m · Action, Thriller, CrimeFor nearly two decades, Mesrine captivated France as its most notorious criminal, skillfully cultivating a public image while pursuing his own ambitions for fame. However, increasing paranoia and isolation drive him to a final, dramatic clash with the authorities, solidifying his status as the nation's most infamous public enemy.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3 - 3
AdrienneMovie · 2021 · 98m · Documentary, DramaAdrienne Shelly was a prominent figure in independent cinema, known for her work with Hal Hartley and the acclaimed film *Waitress*. A dedicated mother, her life appeared stable until her husband discovered her deceased. Ever since, filmmaker Andy Ostroy has been determined to uncover the truth behind her death.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.5 - 4
Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, MissouriMovie · 2017 · 115m · Crime, DramaSeven months after her daughter's murder, Mildred Hayes takes a drastic step, posting three signs around town with a pointed message for Bill Willoughby, the respected police chief. The situation escalates when Officer Jason Dixon, the chief's subordinate and a volatile man with personal issues, becomes involved, intensifying the conflict between Mildred and the town's police department.IMDb 8.1TMDB 8.1 - 5
WonderlandMovie · 2003 · 104m · Crime, Mystery, DramaOn July 1, 1981, Los Angeles police responded to a distress call on Wonderland Avenue and found four people murdered. The subsequent police investigation revealed two conflicting accounts of what happened before the brutal killings, both implicating the famous porn actor, John Holmes.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.1 - 6
Death of a Centerfold: The Dorothy Stratten StoryMovie · 1981 · 100mThis is the story of Dorothy Stratten, the celebrated "Playboy" model and actress, and the devastating circumstances surrounding her untimely death.IMDb 5.7TMDB 4.7 - 7
The Girl Who Escaped: The Kara Robinson StoryMovie · 2023 · 88m · Thriller, Drama, CrimeThis is the true story of Kara Robinson, a 15-year-old girl who was kidnapped, assaulted, and held captive for 18 hours. While imprisoned in a serial killer's apartment, Kara meticulously plans a daring escape.IMDb 6.3TMDB 7.1 - 8
Jack the Ripper : The Case ReopenedMovie · 2019 · 59mEmilia Fox and Professor David Wilson, Britain’s leading criminologist, offer a fresh perspective on the Jack the Ripper murders. They use modern technology to reconstruct the crime scenes, aiming to understand the extreme risks the killer took. Analyzing police records through the HOLMES system – a specialized computer program for detecting criminal patterns – and previously overlooked evidence, their findings suggest a different woman may have been the Ripper's first victim.IMDb 6.6TMDB 7.4 - 9
I Shot Andy WarholMovie · 1996 · 103m · DramaThe film chronicles Valerie Solanas, a controversial figure of the 1960s who wrote the "SCUM" manifesto, advocating radical changes to societal gender roles. She also wrote a screenplay hoping to gain the attention of Andy Warhol, believing him to be the ideal collaborator for her vision.
Frustrated by Warhol's lack of response to her repeated requests for support, Solanas became increasingly disillusioned. In a shocking act, she shot Warhol, attempting to drastically alter his life.
The film explores Solanas' motivations and the factors that led to her descent into violence, examining themes of feminism, misogyny, and the struggle for artistic recognition in a male-dominated environment.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.1 - 10
DeadlineMovie · 2004 · 90mIn 2000, Illinois Governor George Ryan halted executions after students found evidence that 13 men on death row were innocent. This film documents the hearings held by a panel Ryan assembled to examine the issue. It includes interviews with activists, experts, and those affected by the death penalty, alongside an exploration of the penalty's history in America. As Ryan's term nears its end, he faces a critical decision about reforming the justice system.IMDb 7.5TMDB 9.0 - 11
Aileen Wuornos: American BoogeywomanMovie · 2021 · 86m · Horror, ThrillerThis is the true story of Aileen Wuornos, America's most infamous female serial killer. In 1989 and 1990, she embarked on a killing spree in Florida. But in 1976, a young and attractive Aileen arrived in Florida seeking a fresh start after a difficult past. She married a wealthy Yacht Club President and seemed to have the opportunity to reinvent herself within Florida's elite. Or so it appeared.IMDb 3.9TMDB 5.1 - 12
Bowling for ColumbineMovie · 2002 · 120m · Documentary, DramaThis film isn't about gun control. It explores the underlying anxieties of the United States and the 280 million Americans who can legally own a Uzi. Examining Columbine High School security footage, the home of NRA President Charlton Heston, a young man creating napalm from a guide book, and the tragic murder of a six-year-old by another six-year-old, "Bowling for Columbine" journeys across America, examining its history to understand why the pursuit of happiness is so intertwined with violence.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.5 - 13
White Boy RickMovie · 2018 · 111m · Crime, DramaThis is the story of Richard Wershe Jr., a teenager who worked as an undercover informant for the police in the 1980s. He was later arrested for drug trafficking and sentenced to life in prison.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.3 - 14
PsychoMovie · 1960 · 109m · Horror, Thriller, MysteryMarion Crane, a real estate clerk who has stolen money and is trying to escape her past, arrives at the Bates Motel. The motel is run by Norman Bates, who is responsible for his mother's care while she is confined to the house.IMDb 8.5TMDB 8.4 - 15
American MurdererMovie · 2022 · 101m · Crime, DramaThis is the true story of Jason Derek Brown, a charming con artist who finances his lavish life through a string of scams. FBI Special Agent Lance Leising is determined to bring Brown to justice. As Brown's money dwindles and his past returns to haunt him, he plans an elaborate scheme, leading to a dangerous chase with Leising and transforming Brown into the FBI’s most elusive fugitive.IMDb 5.4TMDB 5.9 - 16
The Burning BedMovie · 1984 · 100mAfter enduring years of abuse, a woman reaches a breaking point with her husband's violence. Finding no support from those around her, she takes a drastic action. One night, while he sleeps, she sets the bed on fire, trapping him inside.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.0 - 17
Black MassMovie · 2015 · 123m · Drama, Crime, HistoryThis is the true story of Whitey Bulger, the brother of a state senator and South Boston's most notorious violent criminal. He secretly worked as an FBI informant to dismantle a Mafia family that was trying to take over his territory.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.5 - 18
Memories of MurderMovie · 2003 · 131m · Crime, Drama, ThrillerIn the late 1980s, two detectives in rural South Korea struggle to solve a series of brutal rape and murders targeting young women, terrifying their community. Working with limited resources and old-fashioned techniques, they soon realize they are hunting the country's first documented serial killer as the murders continue with a disturbing pattern. This true-crime thriller follows their desperate attempt to connect the clues.IMDb 8.1TMDB 8.1 - 19
The Diary of Jack the Ripper: Beyond Reasonable Doubt?Movie · 1993 · 79mThis documentary chronicles the discovery of a diary believed to have belonged to Jack the Ripper, the infamous serial killer.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.5 - 20
Lost GirlsMovie · 2020 · 95m · Drama, Mystery, ThrillerAfter her daughter Shannan vanishes, Mari Gilbert becomes frustrated with the police response and begins her own search in the exclusive Long Island community where Shannan disappeared. Her investigation uncovers a disturbing pattern: over a dozen prostitutes have been murdered.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.1 - 21
The Avon Barksdale StoryMovie · 2010 · 72m"Legends of the Unwired" is the first film to reveal the real people behind the characters in the HBO series "The Wire," which was inspired by the lives of Baltimore gangsters. In this DVD, Avon "Bodie" Barksdale, the real man who inspired the character, speaks candidly with his actor, Wood Harris. Bodie shares an unvarnished account of drugs, sex, violence, and death.IMDb 5.7 - 22
Murder to Mercy: The Cyntoia Brown StoryMovie · 2020 · 96m · DocumentaryThe conviction of 16-year-old Cyntoia Brown sparks debate about her history, her physical and psychological state, and the fairness of the justice system.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.9 - 23
The InfiltratorMovie · 2016 · 127m · Crime, Drama, ThrillerA U.S. Customs official discovers an extensive money laundering operation connected to Pablo Escobar.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.7 - 24
ConvictionMovie · 2010 · 107m · DramaIn 1983, when her older brother Kenny is convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison, Betty Anne Waters, a Massachusetts wife and mother, begins an 18-year fight to prove his innocence. Certain Kenny is innocent, she pursues education, earning a high school diploma, a college degree, and eventually a law degree, all to free him. With her close friend Abra Rice, Betty Anne carefully examines questionable evidence gathered by local police officer Nancy Taylor, meticulously re-examining the events leading to Kenny's arrest. Driven by her belief in her brother and her pursuit of truth, Betty Anne and her team work to uncover the facts and use DNA evidence, hoping to clear Kenny's name.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1 - 25
All Good ThingsMovie · 2010 · 101m · Mystery, Thriller, RomanceThis film explores the true love story and unsolved murder of a highly publicized case in New York. Using newly discovered evidence, court documents, and theories, it delves into the details of this infamous crime.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.0 - 26
LizzieMovie · 2018 · 106m · Crime, Drama, ThrillerIn 1892 Massachusetts, Lizzie, a 32-year-old unmarried woman ostracized by society, is trapped by her father's harsh rule. The arrival of Bridget Sullivan, a young maid, offers Lizzie a connection and understanding. A hidden bond forms between them, leading to a dangerous scheme.IMDb 5.9TMDB 6.2 - 27
The Bling RingMovie · 2013 · 90m · Drama, CrimeBased on true stories, a group of young people driven by a desire for fame uses the internet to locate celebrities and then breaks into their homes to steal.IMDb 5.6TMDB 5.4 - 28
American Murder: The Family Next DoorMovie · 2020 · 83m · DocumentaryThis documentary uses real footage to explore the disappearance of Shanann Watts and her children, and the tragic events that unfolded afterward.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.3 - 29
PrimevalMovie · 2007 · 93m · Adventure, Horror, ActionA news crew travels to Burundi on assignment: to find and capture a legendary 25-foot crocodile. Their assignment becomes perilous when a warlord puts them in the crosshairs.IMDb 4.8TMDB 6.1 - 30
Casualties of Love: The Long Island Lolita StoryMovie · 1993 · 95mA young girl develops feelings for a married man who works at an auto body shop, and their relationship triggers significant and complicated events.IMDb 5.1TMDB 5.7 - 31
Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and VileMovie · 2019 · 111m · Drama, CrimeThis film tells the story of Ted Bundy's crimes, as seen through the eyes of Elizabeth Kloepfer, his long-term girlfriend. For years, she struggled to accept the reality of his actions.IMDb 6.7TMDB 7.0 - 32
Dog Day AfternoonMovie · 1975 · 124m · Crime, Drama, ThrillerThis true story follows John Wojtowicz and Salvatore Naturile, two men who attempt a bank robbery in Brooklyn as a rebellion against society. Their bold plan quickly turns into a tense hostage situation and standoff with police. As the film progresses, the reasons behind the crime are revealed, adding depth to the story. The event evolves from a simple robbery into a major media sensation, placing those involved in extraordinary circumstances and revealing their weaknesses and strengths.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.8 - 33
The IcemanMovie · 2012 · 105m · Thriller, Crime, DramaThis is the true story of Richard Kuklinski, a notorious contract killer who lived a double life as a devoted family man.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.6 - 34
The Frozen GroundMovie · 2013 · 105m · Thriller, CrimeAn Alaska State Trooper teams up with a young woman who survived serial killer Robert Hansen to help find him. This story is based on true events.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.3 - 35
The Most Hated Woman in AmericaMovie · 2017 · 91m · Crime, DramaThis is the true story of Madalyn Murray O'Hair, a controversial figure who rose to prominence as a vocal atheist and activist. The film chronicles her journey, from her initial controversial rise to her unexpected death.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.2 - 36
An American CrimeMovie · 2007 · 97m · Crime, Drama, HorrorThis is the true story of Gertrude Baniszewski, a suburban housewife in Indiana during the 1960s, who confined a teenage girl to the basement of her house.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.3 - 37
Victims for Victims: The Theresa Saldana StoryMovie · 1984 · 96mBefore stalking was widely recognized as a crime in North America, the story of Theresa Saldana captured the nation's attention. Arthur Jackson, a drifter from the U.K., travels to the U.S. specifically to find Saldana. His disturbing plan is to kill her and then request the death penalty so they can be together in the afterlife. Jackson ambushes Saldana on the street in front of her home and violently stabs her multiple times. A water deliveryman, Jeff Fenn, is the only one present who intervenes, subduing Jackson and taking the weapon from him. Jackson is arrested and charged with attempted murder. Theresa Saldana recounts her terrifying ordeal and her fight for survival in this television movie.IMDb 6.7TMDB 7.5 - 38
SilkwoodMovie · 1983 · 131m · Drama, ThrillerThe film tells the compelling story of Karen Silkwood, a committed worker in a plutonium processing plant. While uncovering serious safety violations and corporate cover-ups at her workplace, Karen becomes involved in a perilous situation with potentially devastating consequences.
Karen's life changes dramatically when she learns the shocking truth about unsafe practices at her job. She endures intense psychological pressure and faces possible threats as she continues to try and expose these dangerous conditions and safeguard her fellow workers.
The film powerfully depicts this true story with a direct examination of corporate greed and its harmful impact on worker safety. It explores themes of bravery, honesty, and the struggle for fairness when facing overwhelming challenges. Through its gripping story and strong performances, the movie highlights an important moment in labor history, keeping viewers deeply engaged.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9 - 39
Devil's KnotMovie · 2013 · 114m · Crime, Drama, ThrillerThe brutal murders of three young children lead to a highly publicized trial for three teenagers on suspicion of committing the crimes as part of a satanic ritual.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.2 - 40
The Wizard of LiesMovie · 2017 · 133m · Crime, Drama, TV MovieThis film examines the inner workings of Bernie Madoff's extensive Ponzi scheme, detailing its execution and the widespread devastation it caused. It follows the scheme's impact on those who invested and the consequences for Madoff's own family.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.6 - 41
Finding Steve McQueenMovie · 2019 · 91m · CrimeIn 1972, a tight-knit group of thieves from Youngstown, Ohio plans to steal $30 million in illegally obtained money. Based on a true story of the largest bank heist in U.S. history.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.0 - 42
The TraitorMovie · 2019 · 151m · Drama, Crime, ThrillerPalermo, Sicily, 1980. Mafia boss Tommaso Buscetta plans a move to Brazil with his family to escape the escalating violence between rival factions within the criminal organization. However, after enduring a series of hardships upon his return to Italy, he makes a courageous choice that fundamentally alters his life and the future of Cosa Nostra.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.7 - 43
KarlaMovie · 2006 · 99m · Crime, Drama, ThrillerThis film is based on true events and tells the story of Paul Bernardo and Karla Homolka, Canada's most infamous serial killers. Together, they kidnap, sexually abuse, and murder three young girls.IMDb 5.4TMDB 5.4 - 44
The Jane Doe MurdersMovie · 2021 · 87mYolanda McClary, a leading forensic specialist and former Las Vegas crime investigator known for her DNA recovery expertise, dedicates herself to identifying unknown victims. Employing advanced forensic technology and DNA databases, Yolanda and her team of genealogists assist local authorities in solving a 23-year-old murder. They aim to identify a woman found deceased in the Oregon woods. Working from skeletal remains, Yolanda races to uncover the truth and potentially unlock new leads in the long-cold case.IMDb 7.4 - 45
The Golden GloveMovie · 2019 · 110m · Crime, Thriller, HorrorIn early 1970s Hamburg, a serial killer terrorizes the city's population.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.9 - 46
A Cry for Help: The Tracey Thurman StoryMovie · 1989 · 96mTracy Thurman endured years of abuse from her husband, which continued even after she obtained a restraining order. Despite this, the police offered little protection. Following a brutal attack where he beat her severely and slashed her throat in front of them, Tracy sued the city and police department for failing to ensure her safety.IMDb 7.8TMDB 8.3 - 47
StanderMovie · 2003 · 116m · Action, Crime, DramaThis is the story of Andre Stander, who went from being a police officer in South Africa to becoming a bank robber. It follows his life and the path he took to that criminal career.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.2 - 48
My Friend DahmerMovie · 2017 · 107m · History, Drama, CrimeAs a child, Jeffrey Dahmer experiences challenges within his family. His adolescence marks a gradual shift, leading him increasingly toward the path of a serial killer.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.5 - 49
Natural Born KillersMovie · 1994 · 118m · Crime, Thriller, DramaThis film explores the lives of two people haunted by difficult childhoods. Their unexpected romance deepens into a dangerous partnership. The story examines how society's interest in violence can elevate these troubled individuals to a strange kind of heroism. It looks at the complexities of love and human nature, and the consequences of seeking approval from outside sources that blur the lines between right and wrong.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1 - 50
H.H. Holmes: America's First Serial KillerMovie · 2004 · 64m · Crime, Documentary, HistoryH.H. Holmes constructed a terrifying castle filled with devices of death: torture chambers, acid vats, greased chutes, and gassing rooms. The film chronicles Holmes' life as a criminal mastermind, detailing his creation of this horrific place.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.1 - 51
MonsterMovie · 2003 · 109m · Crime, DramaIn 1989, prostitute Aileen Wuornos forms a relationship with a young woman named Selby. Hoping to improve her life, Aileen's lack of education leads her back to working on the streets. After being assaulted, she kills her attacker. This event marks the beginning of a series of murders and robberies, ultimately transforming Aileen into America's first confirmed female serial killer.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2 - 52
Amanda Knox: Murder on Trial in ItalyMovie · 2011 · 87m · Crime, Drama, TV MovieThis Lifetime Original Movie, Amanda Knox: Murder on Trial in Italy, draws from the real-life events surrounding the murder of British student Meredith Kercher. Hayden Panettiere and Marcia Gay Harden star in the film, based on the widely reported story of an American exchange student who became infamous after being accused by Italian authorities of brutally killing her roommate. The movie explores whether Amanda Knox (Panettiere), a Seattle student accused of murdering Meredith Kercher in 2007 with her boyfriend Raffaele Sollecito and acquaintance Rudy Guede, was truly guilty or herself a victim.IMDb 5.7TMDB 6.1
