136 True Crime Documentaries to Watch Now
136 titles
- 1Incendiary: The Willingham CaseMovie · 2011 · 99mIn 1991, a house fire in Corsicana, Texas, killed Cameron Todd Willingham's three daughters. He was convicted of arson and their murders and executed in 2004, despite significant expert doubts about the evidence presented by the prosecution. Now, Willingham's case has become a major issue in forensic science and the death penalty debate. However, Texas Governor Rick Perry continues to view Willingham as a criminal, disregarding the scientific evidence that suggested his innocence. INCENDIARY is a film that blends a murder mystery with forensic investigation and political drama, exploring the lasting impact of a prosecution based on flawed assumptions.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.3
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Conspiracy of SilenceMovie · 1993 · 60m"Conspiracy of Silence" is a disturbing documentary exposing a nationwide child abuse and pedophilia ring that reaches into the highest levels of government. The film follows John DeCamp, a decorated Vietnam veteran and Nebraska state senator, as he investigates how individuals within various levels of government have systematically engaged in child abuse and pedophilia to satisfy powerful politicians' desires.IMDb 7.5TMDB 9.0 - 3
Who Killed Vincent Chin?Movie · 1987 · 87mThe film details the murder of Vincent Chin, a Chinese-American automotive engineer wrongly identified as Japanese and killed by an American factory worker. The worker blamed Chin for job losses caused by Japanese automakers. The film follows how the perpetrator evaded justice within the legal system. Restored by the Academy Film Archive and The Film Foundation, in association with the Museum of Chinese in America. Restoration funding was provided by the Hobson/Lucas Family Foundation, with additional support from Todd Phillips.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.3 - 4
Death on the Staircase: The AftermathMovie · 2005 · 40mThis documentary series continues with an update on the case of Michael Peterson, following his conviction for murder. In a newly filmed interview from behind bars, Peterson speaks publicly for the first time since his trial concluded.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.7 - 5
Death PenaltyMovie · 2012 · 100mThis documentary recounts the most shocking series of crimes in Chilean history. A group of killers committed unprecedented acts of murder and rape. The film explores the origins of these crimes, examining how a dark mindset took root, developed, and manifested itself during the military government of the 1980s.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.0 - 6
Cold Light of DayMovie · 1989 · 81mIt's February 1983. Police investigate a London suburb after reports of human remains clogging the drains of a house. Dennis Nilsen, a seemingly ordinary civil servant living there, is questioned. The investigation reveals one of Britain's most shocking and disturbing serial murder cases.IMDb 5.4TMDB 5.0 - 7
Forgiving Dr. MengeleMovie · 2006 · 82mEva Mozes Kor, a Holocaust survivor who endured Josef Mengele's horrific twin experiments at Auschwitz, deeply affects fellow survivors with her decision to forgive their oppressors as a path to healing.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.2 - 8Vincent Who?Movie · 2009 · 40mThis documentary examines the 1982 murder of Vincent Chin and its lasting impact. It also considers how the story relates to contemporary Asian-American identity, a topic largely unknown to younger generations.IMDb 8.0TMDB 3.3
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Have You Seen Andy?Movie · 2003 · 80m"Have You Seen Andy?" is a personal story about a childhood friendship shattered by the tragic abduction of Andy Puglisi. Thirty years later, Melanie Perkins, Andy's childhood friend, uses her unique access to revisit the day he disappeared. She reviews the original police investigation and discovers new, surprising details, leading to the reactivation of the long-unsolved case.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.1 - 10
This Is the Zodiac SpeakingMovie · 2008 · 102mThis documentary presents interviews with those connected to the Zodiac killings, exploring the entire investigation. It features perspectives from the original investigators, as well as surviving victims, covering all facets of the case.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.0 - 11
Deliver Us from EvilMovie · 2006 · 101m · Crime, DocumentaryDocumentary filmmaker Amy Berg examines the life of Father Oliver O'Grady, a 30-year-old pedophile. The film reveals the corruption within the Catholic Church that enabled his abuse of numerous children. Through victims' accounts and a revealing interview with O'Grady himself, the documentary explores the troubled mind of the priest who gained the trust of many while secretly betraying them by moving from parish to parish.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.1 - 12
Dennis Nilsen: In Love with DeathMovie · 2009 · 58mThis is the story of Dennis Nilsen, a serial killer who murdered fifteen young men during the 1980s. - 13
Monster: The Josef Fritzl StoryMovie · 2010 · 48m · Crime, DocumentaryThis film presents interviews with Josef Fritzl's family, including his daughter, medical professionals who treated her, and the seven children she bore during her 24-year captivity in a basement.IMDb 4.9TMDB 5.0 - 14
Into the AbyssMovie · 2011 · 105m · Documentary, CrimeWe don't know when or how we will die. Death Row inmates do. Werner Herzog engages in conversations with people serving life sentences, exploring their perspectives on life, death, and the events that led them to prison. He delves into their individual stories and the circumstances of their crimes.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.9 - 15
The Staircase II: The Last ChanceMovie · 2012 · 130m · DocumentaryUnexpected revelations involving the North Carolina police department's forensics lab and its chief, Duane Deaver, bring fresh attention to the murder case of Michael Peterson.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3 - 16
The Moors Murder CodeMovie · 2004 · 105mBetween 1963 and 1965, Ian Brady and Myra Hindley committed a series of murders in the Manchester area of England, targeting five children aged ten to seventeen. This documentary examines a set of photographs held by the convicted murderers. Police believe these images may hold clues to the locations of the children's graves.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.5 - 17
Where is Robert Fisher?Movie · 2011 · 84mThis is a chilling account of Robert Fisher, a person of interest to law enforcement. After his family was brutally murdered in 2001, Fisher disappeared and has been missing ever since. His current location remains a mystery.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.5 - 18
Thought CrimesMovie · 2015 · 81m · Documentary"Thought Crimes" examines the disturbing case of Gilberto Valle, a former NYPD officer known as "The Cannibal Cop," accused of plotting to kidnap and eat women. Valle claimed his actions were only in his imagination. This controversial story, which gained attention for its shocking details and impact on civil rights, questions the boundary between free thought and criminal behavior. The documentary uses interviews with Valle and insights from experts to explore whether dangerous thoughts should be illegal. This compelling look at a case with significant implications asks audiences to consider the challenges at the meeting point of mental freedom and public safety.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.2 - 19
Murder: No Apparent MotiveMovie · 1984 · 75mThis documentary explores the world of serial killers and the FBI profilers who hunt them. It features interviews with Ed Kemper and Ted Bundy, alongside perspectives from crime victims and law enforcement. The film incorporates some dramatic recreations of events.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0 - 20
The SentenceMovie · 2018 · 87mCindy Shank, a mother of three, is spending 15 years in federal prison due to her indirect connection to a drug ring in Michigan from years ago. This personal film, shot by Cindy's brother, details the harsh realities of mandatory minimum drug sentences and their impact on a family over a decade.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.8 - 21
Captive for 18 Years: The Jaycee Lee StoryMovie · 2009 · 49mThis is the true story of Jaycee Lee Dugard, a young girl abducted from a school bus stop who was discovered alive eighteen years later.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.3 - 22
TowerMovie · 2016 · 82m · Animation, Crime, DocumentaryTower uses archival footage and rotoscopic animation to tell the untold stories of those who witnessed, helped, or survived America's first mass school shooting. It shows how a terrible event sparked courage and compassion in many people.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.6 - 23
Beware the SlendermanMovie · 2016 · 115m · Documentary, CrimeThis is a chilling contemporary story about an online monster and two 12-year-old girls willing to do anything for him. Their exploration of the internet plunges them into its darkest corners. The film questions how accountable children are for the things they discover online.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.5 - 24
Natascha: The Girl in the CellarMovie · 2010 · 60m · DocumentaryThis remarkable interview recounts the harrowing experience of Natascha Kampusch, who was held captive in a basement for eight years by Wolfgang Priklopil.IMDb 6.0TMDB 5.8 - 25
The Hunting GroundMovie · 2015 · 104m · DocumentaryThis film reveals the shocking reality of rape on American college campuses, exposing how institutions often conceal these crimes and the profound impact on students and their families. The story follows several undergraduate survivors as they fight to continue their studies and seek justice, facing significant obstacles including resistance, harassment, and the lasting effects of trauma.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4 - 26
The Confessions of Thomas QuickMovie · 2015 · 95mFrom a young age, Thomas Quick was isolated and withdrawn, eventually becoming Sweden's most infamous serial killer, confessing to over 30 murders. For years, Quick was housed in a psychiatric institution, and his confessions began after extensive work with therapists who believed memory recovery could cure criminal behavior. In a country with a typically low crime rate, Sweden watched in disbelief as Quick's confessions implicated him in many unsolved cases. Brian Hill delivers a stylish noir thriller, featuring testimonials from those impacted by the story, including Quick himself, and dramatic reenactments. What begins as a story of extreme evil transforms into a more complex exploration of the people surrounding Quick and their motivations.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.3 - 27
Party Monster: The ShockumentaryMovie · 1998 · 57mThis is the story of Michael Alig, a young man from the Midwest who dreamed of emulating Andy Warhol. He rapidly became New York's leading party promoter and the central figure among the Club Kids. However, his life took a dark turn as he became addicted to drugs and ultimately murdered his roommate, Angel Melendez.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.2 - 28
Dance with a Serial KillerMovie · 2008 · 70mIn 1989, a woman is brutally murdered in plain sight on a beach in Brittany. The assigned detective, young homicide cop Jean Francois Abgrall, becomes certain that the killer is Francis Heaulmes, an enigmatic drifter who, despite having an alibi, continues to offer cryptic clues. Abgrall details his pursuit of Heaulmes across France in an effort to bring him to justice.IMDb 7.0 - 29
Brother's KeeperMovie · 1992 · 104m · DocumentaryJoe Berlinger and Bruce Sinofsky's documentary offers an intimate look at the trial of Delbert Ward, a member of a secluded family of four elderly brothers who lived as farmers in rural America. Their isolated world is disrupted when one of the brothers, William, dies under suspicious circumstances, and Delbert is charged with his murder.
The film closely examines this real-life drama, revealing the complexities of the brothers' lives and the judicial process. Through detailed documentation, Berlinger and Sinofsky present an honest portrayal of Delbert Ward's trial, exploring themes of family, prejudice, and the difficulties faced by those living apart from mainstream society. The film is a powerful exploration of human nature, prompting viewers to consider understanding and empathy for those who are different.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.0 - 30
The Perfect Crime: Leopold & LoebMovie · 2016 · 52mThis is the true story of Richard Leopold and Nathan Loeb, two privileged college students who, in 1924, murdered a 14-year-old boy. Their motive? To prove their intelligence by demonstrating they could evade justice.IMDb 7.3TMDB 4.7 - 31
An Unreal Dream: The Michael Morton StoryMovie · 2013 · 92mIn 1986, Michael Morton's wife Christine is murdered before their child, and Michael is convicted. After spending twenty-five years in Texas prisons, he grapples with questions of justice and innocence. While largely forgotten by the world, a team of lawyers works for years to access DNA evidence from the crime scene. Their findings reveal that a wrongful conviction has devastating consequences that extend far beyond the individual.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.9 - 32
Gringo: The Dangerous Life of John McAfeeMovie · 2016 · 100m · Documentary, DramaThis true story follows John McAfee, a former tech billionaire who experienced a series of extraordinary events. His life shifts from successful entrepreneur to secluded yogi in the jungle, echoing themes from Joseph Conrad's 'Heart of Darkness'. McAfee's story takes a dramatic turn when he becomes a suspect in a murder. He then unexpectedly considers running for president on the American Libertarian Party ticket. This compelling narrative explores one man’s journey through wealth, isolation, controversy, and ambition.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.6 - 33
Long ShotMovie · 2017 · 41m · Documentary, CrimeWrongfully accused of murder, Juan Catalan fights to prove his innocence using compelling, previously unseen video footage he secretly recorded.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2 - 34Stranger with a CameraMovie · 2000 · 61mIn 1967, Canadian filmmaker Hugh O'Connor and his crew traveled to eastern Kentucky to document diverse American lives. Their day concluded with filming coal miners and their families in their rented homes. As the crew departed, Hobart Ison, the property owner, fired three shots, killing O'Connor. Elizabeth Barrett, a Kentuckian, investigates the circumstances behind this event by examining the people and culture of eastern Kentucky.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.0
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The Iceman Tapes: Conversations with a KillerMovie · 1992 · 47mRichard Kuklinski lived a seemingly normal life as a devoted husband and father, but he was also a ruthless killer who murdered over 100 people. This documentary features a revealing and unsettling interview with Kuklinski, recorded inside the prison where he is serving two life sentences for multiple homicides.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3 - 36
The Teller and the TruthMovie · 2015 · 82mIn 1974, 24-year-old Francis Wetherbee, a bank teller, vanishes from her Texas hometown of Smithville two weeks after her fiancé's bank is robbed. Her car is found in a river, but the discovery offers no answers. A thorough search yields nothing, and the authorities eventually close the case. Nearly 40 years later, those close to Francis share theories and clues, prompting a renewed investigation. The film shifts from documentary to narrative, revealing the story of Francis' life and the truth behind her disappearance.IMDb 6.1TMDB 2.4 - 37
The Central Park FiveMovie · 2012 · 119m · DocumentaryIn 1989, five Black and Latino teenagers from Harlem were arrested and convicted of raping a white woman in New York City's Central Park. They served six to thirteen years in prison before a serial rapist confessed to the crime, overturning their convictions. Against a backdrop of a troubled city marked by violence and racial tension, the film recounts the horrific event, the police's hasty judgment, the media's demand for sensational stories, and the public's outrage – and the devastating impact on the five lives wrongly accused.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.0 - 38
Lost for LifeMovie · 2013 · 75mThis documentary explores the lives of young people incarcerated for life without the possibility of parole, alongside the stories of the families of those they harmed.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.3 - 39
Glory Daze: The Life and Times of Michael AligMovie · 2015 · 135mThis film explores the vibrant and unconventional nightlife scene in 1990s New York City. The former members of the notorious Club Kids share their personal stories from that time, leading up to Alig's release from prison.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.3 - 40
Mommy Dead and DearestMovie · 2017 · 82m · Crime, DocumentaryThis mystery explores the dark side of a seemingly perfect life. A mother and daughter's idyllic existence hides a disturbing reality, marked by child abuse, mental illness, and a forbidden love.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.4 - 41
Myra: The Making of a MonsterMovie · 2003 · 112mThis documentary explores the mind of Myra Hindley, her relationship with Ian Brady, her past, and her years in prison. At the time of her death on November 15th, Hindley was Britain's longest-serving female prisoner, having spent 36 years incarcerated. She was sentenced to life in prison in 1966 for murdering two children alongside her partner, Ian Brady.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.0 - 42Maddie - A Verdade Da MentiraMovie · 2009 · 50m*A Verdade da Mentira* is a documentary film based on the book by Gonçalo Amaral, a former Judicial Police Inspector who investigated the mysterious disappearance of an English child in the Algarve region of Portugal in 2007.IMDb 5.0TMDB 9.0
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There's Something Wrong with Aunt DianeMovie · 2011 · 97m · DocumentaryDirector Liz Garbus explores the perplexing story of Diane Schuler, seeking to uncover the circumstances behind a devastating event.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.6 - 44
Murder on a Sunday MorningMovie · 2001 · 111m · Crime, DocumentaryThis 2001 French documentary chronicles the murder trial of a 15-year-old Black teen in Jacksonville, Florida. The film won the 2002 Academy Award for Best Documentary.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.4 - 45
Ian Brady: 50 Years Behind BarsMovie · 2016 · 90mFifty years after the sentencing of Moors murderer Ian Brady, this documentary explores his life behind bars. Prison officers, detectives, relatives of his victims, pen pals, and fellow inmates share insights into Brady's detached attitude toward his crimes during his time in prison. Arrested in 1965, he has never applied for parole and has never expressed a desire for release.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.0 - 46
Reckless IndifferenceMovie · 2000 · 101mEmmy-winning director William Gazecki (WACO: The Rules Of Engagement) presents a powerful look at the American legal system, telling the tragic story of four teenagers, drugs, and murder. Reckless Indifference examines how California's felony murder rule unfairly altered the lives of these teens. After a fight that resulted in the death of a police officer's son, they were sentenced to life in prison, despite unclear evidence. Ten years later, they remain incarcerated, awaiting an appeal. Featuring interviews with legal expert Alan Dershowitz, family members, and a recent interview with Brandon Hein from jail, Reckless Indifference offers an intimate view of a highly publicized trial that failed to deliver justice.IMDb 7.2TMDB 5.0 - 47
DisgracedMovie · 2017 · 102mThis film recounts the summer of 2003 at Baylor University, revealing the attempted cover-up and corruption at the heart of a highly unusual college sports scandal.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.3 - 48
Paradise Lost 3: PurgatoryMovie · 2012 · 121m · Documentary, CrimeThis film examines the aftermath of the release of three teenagers who spent nearly 20 years in prison for the murder of three young boys in Arkansas. New DNA evidence suggests they may be innocent, prompting a renewed look at the case.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.4 - 49
Hunting the KGB KillersMovie · 2017This is the complete account of Alexander Litvinenko's assassination in London and the worldwide search for his killers. Featuring unprecedented access to those directly involved, the story reveals the full details of the investigation that ultimately pointed to the Kremlin.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.4 - 50
Capturing the FriedmansMovie · 2003 · 107m · Documentary, CrimeThis Oscar-nominated documentary examines the devastating story of a middle-class American family fractured by accusations of child sexual abuse against the father, Arnold, and son, Jesse. Director Jarecki interviews individuals connected to the case, exploring the question of whether their trials were just, given their claims of innocence and the lack of concrete evidence.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.1 - 51
AMovie · 1998 · 136m · DocumentaryThis documentary examines Aum Shinrikyo, a Buddhist sect led by Shoko Asahara, between September 1996 and November 1997. It covers the sect's reaction to media attention, the trials following the 1995 Tokyo subway sarin attack, and the cult's dwindling finances due to public disapproval. The film centers on Hiroshi Araki, who becomes Aum's main spokesperson after the leaders are arrested. We see the hostility he encounters from the Japanese public, who struggle to understand how many followers were unaware of the attacks and remain devoted despite the violence. This revealing look at cult life explores the complicated connection between Aum Shinrikyo, its members, and a society that rejects them.IMDb 6.9TMDB 5.9 - 52
StevieMovie · 2002 · 145m · Documentary, DramaIn 1995, director Steve James (of *Hoop Dreams*) revisits rural Southern Illinois to reconnect with Stevie Fielding, a troubled young boy he mentored as an "Advocate Big Brother" a decade prior.IMDb 7.8TMDB 6.9 - 53
The Batman ShootingsMovie · 2012 · 57mThe Aurora, Colorado premiere of "The Dark Knight Rises" became a horrific tragedy when a lone gunman, James Holmes, opened fire inside the theater. Twelve people were killed and many more wounded. This documentary explores Holmes' life, the stories of those who were victims, and features perspectives from survivors.IMDb 5.0TMDB 6.4 - 54
JonBenét’s Mother: Victim or Killer?Movie · 2016This film offers an intimate look at Patsy Ramsey, exploring her life as a mother, prominent social figure, beauty queen, and the woman at the center of a murder investigation. It features previously unseen interviews alongside an analysis of evidence utilizing contemporary forensic techniques.IMDb 6.7 - 55
Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His FatherMovie · 2008 · 94m · Documentary, CrimeIn 2001, medical resident Andrew Bagby is murdered shortly after ending his relationship with his girlfriend. Later, when she reveals she is pregnant, Andrew’s close friend Kurt Kuenne creates this film as a gift for the child.IMDb 8.5TMDB 8.1 - 56
Crazy LoveMovie · 2007 · 92m · Documentary, RomanceDan Klores' film explores the unusual relationship between Burt Pugach and Linda Riss. In 1950s New York, Pugach, a successful lawyer, begins a relationship with the much younger Riss. However, Riss ends the relationship after discovering Pugach lied about being divorced. Learning that Riss was engaged to someone else, Pugach hires men to attack her with lye, resulting in a 14-year prison sentence.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.4 - 57
Aileen: Life and Death of a Serial KillerMovie · 2003 · 89m · Documentary, CrimeDocumentarian Nick Broomfield returns to the story of Aileen Wuornos, the Florida woman convicted of murdering six men between 1989 and 1990. Broomfield interviews Wuornos as she becomes increasingly unstable, exploring the troubled mind of a woman the Florida authorities consider mentally competent for execution. The film incorporates footage from Broomfield's own testimony during Wuornos' trial.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.7 - 58
Serial Killers: The Real Life Hannibal LectersMovie · 2001 · 60m · Documentary, Thriller, CrimeThe film explores several documented cases of serial killers, drawing parallels between their behaviors and the character of Hannibal Lecter from popular fiction.IMDb 6.5TMDB 5.9 - 59
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 - 60
Bus 174Movie · 2002 · 118m · Documentary, CrimeThis documentary recounts the events of June 12th, 2000, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, when a young man hijacked bus 174, threatening to harm the passengers. The incident, broadcast live across Brazilian television, became a deeply disturbing portrayal of violence and a stark example of police failure and misconduct.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.3 - 61
Arropiero, el vagabund de la mortMovie · 2009 · 80mThis is the chronicle of Manuel Delgado Villegas, known as 'The Arropiero,' Spain's most prolific mass murderer. A wandering figure who sold his blood, he confessed to forty-eight crimes, though authorities were able to investigate only twenty and definitively link him to seven, some committed in France and Italy. Overwhelmed by the extent of his brutality, justice, police, and psychiatrists ultimately confined him to a life of institutionalization. He was largely forgotten until his death in 1998. Even now, many questions remain about his life.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.0 - 62
Waco: The Rules of EngagementMovie · 1997 · 136m · DocumentaryThis documentary examines the Waco siege, one of the most tragic confrontations between law enforcement and a religious group in recent history. Using archival footage and recorded conversations, the film explores the events leading to April 19, 1993. It analyzes how the FBI's rigid tactics escalated a difficult situation into a devastating outcome for everyone involved. The documentary examines the Branch Davidian sect and raises questions about law enforcement approaches to dealing with isolated communities. By carefully reconstructing those events, the film provides an in-depth look at the tensions that ultimately resulted in the Waco tragedy.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.6 - 63
In Search of the Papin SistersMovie · 2000 · 94mThis film delves into the shocking double murder committed by the Papin sisters in early 1930s France, a case that continues to captivate audiences. Claude Ventura revisits the brutal killing of their employer in Le Mans on February 2, 1933. The crime deeply intrigued prominent intellectuals like Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, Jean Genet, and Jacques Lacan.IMDb 6.3 - 64
ShenandoahMovie · 2012 · 97mThis documentary follows a coal mining town with a strong immigrant history, once vital to America's industrial growth, now facing economic hardship and a struggle to maintain its identity. The community is deeply affected when four white football players are charged in the fatal beating of Luis Ramirez, an undocumented Mexican immigrant. Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer David Turnley’s most personal film, SHENANDOAH offers a powerful look at a working-class community and the challenges to the American Dream.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.6 - 65
Bazaar Bizarre: The Strange Case of Serial Killer Bob BerdellaMovie · 2004 · 88mIn 1988, Chris Bryson was discovered naked, beaten, and bloody on a Kansas City street, wearing only a dog collar and leash. He recounted to police how local businessman Bob Berdella abducted him, held him captive, repeatedly raped and tortured him, and took photographs over several days. Berdella was arrested, and a search of his home revealed hundreds of Polaroid photographs, a detailed torture log, envelopes containing human teeth, and a human skull. Authorities later learned Berdella murdered six young men by drugging them and subjecting them to sexual torture. Some victims endured the horrors for only days, others for six weeks. After death, Berdella dismembered the bodies with an electric chainsaw and bone knife, storing the remains in dog food bags for trash collection. Though he denied it, it is believed Berdella used the victims' organs as food in his shop.IMDb 3.9TMDB 3.5 - 66
Sex in a Cold ClimateMovie · 1998 · 52mThis film weaves together interviews with four women who were confined to Magdalene asylums and orphanages. Their reasons for being there varied: unwanted pregnancies, sexual assault, or simply being deemed "too attractive."IMDb 8.1TMDB 6.9 - 67
Interview with a Serial KillerMovie · 2008 · 44mIn a revealing interview conducted inside prison, Arthur Shawcross, known as the Genesee River Killer, openly discusses his crimes and the unexpected connections he has with his family.IMDb 5.9TMDB 4.8 - 68
Aileen Wuornos: The Selling of a Serial KillerMovie · 1992 · 87m · Documentary, CrimeNick Broomfield's documentary explores the disturbing case of Aileen Wuornos, a prostitute accused of killing several men. The film features extensive interviews with Wuornos, revealing the complexities of her life and the possible reasons behind her actions. Broomfield's crew films the trial, highlighting potential problems within the justice system. The documentary also examines Wuornos' complicated relationship with Arlene Pralle, a religious woman who advised her. Furthermore, the film documents the attorney who chose to prioritize selling Wuornos’ story over effectively defending her. The documentary is a compelling look at crime, justice, and human nature, presenting a haunting portrait of Aileen Wuornos.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.6 - 69
Twist of FaithMovie · 2004 · 87mA man grapples with the lasting effects of childhood sexual abuse at the hands of a Catholic priest. His decision to speak out deeply divides his family, his community, and his faith.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.7 - 70Obituary of a BeastMovie · 1985 · 60mFrom 1962 to 1966, Jurgen Bartsch brutally murdered four children in a German air raid bunker. This documentary explores the personality of Bartsch, who died in 1976 during a voluntary castration surgery at age 30. He was widely condemned by the press for his crimes and became a subject of study for prominent criminal psychologists like Alice Miller, who theorized that those who abuse were themselves abused as children, and that murderers often have their childhood abuse denied. Bartsch was raised in an institution and later adopted by emotionally distant parents. He murdered his first victim at 15. This documentary offers detailed information to help viewers understand the nature of criminal insanity and how societal factors can contribute to it.IMDb 7.6
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A Gray StateMovie · 2017 · 93m · Documentary, TV MovieIn 2010, David Crowley, an Iraq veteran, filmmaker, and rising figure in fringe politics, started making his film *Gray State*. The movie is set in a near-future dystopia where the government abuses civil liberties. Its online trailer gained a strong following among libertarians, Tea Party activists, and members of the alt-right. In January 2015, Crowley and his family were found dead in their Minnesota home. Their deaths sparked conspiracy theories suggesting a shadowy government assassinated Crowley because the film was revealing too much about their plans.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.4 - 72
The Family I HadMovie · 2017 · 77m"The Family I Had" tells the story of a mother who recounts how her gifted teenage son destroyed their perfect family with a single, shockingly violent act. The film follows the family as they struggle to rebuild their lives after the tragedy, examining the complexities of love and forgiveness in the face of unimaginable loss.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.0 - 73
Captivated: The Trials of Pamela SmartMovie · 2014 · 102mThis is a remarkable and heartbreaking American story. A murder in a small town became a sensation, captivating the nation. The film examines how the media’s constant coverage shaped the case, from its groundbreaking status as the first televised trial to the countless books and films inspired by it.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.1 - 74
The Killing of AmericaMovie · 1981 · 90m · Documentary, CrimeThis documentary examines the slow decline of American society throughout its history. Using a wealth of rare footage, it explores events that have contributed to this decline, including race riots and the rise of serial killers. The film presents a direct look at this history, reflecting on the complexities and challenges America has faced. It prompts viewers to reconsider national identity, social issues, and how violence and unrest have shaped modern America.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2 - 75
Valentine RoadMovie · 2013 · 89mIn February 2008, eighth-grader Brandon McInerney shot his classmate Larry King in the back of the head in Oxnard, California. Larry died two days later, shocking the country. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear: Was it a hate crime by a young man with neo-Nazi sympathies, triggered by a possible romantic interest from Larry, who was perceived as effeminate? Or is there a deeper explanation?IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.1 - 76
A2Movie · 2001 · 131mA2 follows director Tatsuya Mori's film A (1998), offering a stark look inside the compound of Japan's Aum Shinrikyo cult following the 1995 Tokyo subway sarin gas attacks. Many followers were unaware of the planned attacks or their religion’s violent intentions. After the attacks, they were left to rebuild their faith amidst widespread condemnation from Japan. The film centers on Hiroshi Araki, a young man who becomes Aum's chief spokesman after the leaders are arrested. Araki confronts intense hostility from the Japanese public, struggling to explain the followers' lack of knowledge about the attacks and their continued devotion to the religion, despite the violence.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0 - 77
Jonestown: Paradise LostMovie · 2007 · 101m"Jonestown: Paradise Lost" documents the final days of the Peoples Temple and its leader, Jim Jones. Using firsthand accounts from witnesses and survivors, the film reconstructs the events of the week leading up to the mass murder-suicide on November 18, 1978.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8 - 78
I Don't Like MondaysMovie · 2006 · 49mThis documentary examines the 1979 school shooting committed by Brenda Spencer, a 16-year-old girl who opened fire on a playground, killing two people and wounding eight children. She stated her motive was simply, "I don't like Mondays." The event marked the first school shooting of its kind and inspired the Boomtown Rats' popular song, "I Don't Like Mondays."IMDb 5.6TMDB 6.0 - 79
The Cheshire MurdersMovie · 2013 · 115m · DocumentaryIn the summer of 2007, the Petit family's peaceful life in Cheshire, Connecticut, was shattered when two ex-convicts, Steven Hayes and Joshua Komisarjevsky, broke into their home. The intruders attacked Dr. William Petit, his wife Jennifer, and their daughters Michaela and Hayley, holding them captive.
Over several hours, the invaders ransacked the house, brutally attacking the family. Jennifer and Hayley were murdered, and Michaela was raped and killed in a fire that engulfed the home.
The horrific events left the community reeling, forcing them to confront the fragility of safety and the depths of human cruelty. The story is a chilling reminder of the devastating impact of violence on a community and the enduring pain of unimaginable loss.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.5 - 80
Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood HillsMovie · 1996 · 150m · Documentary, CrimeA close-knit community is shattered by the horrific murder of three children, leading to a desperate search for the killers. The investigation zeroes in on three young men known for their unconventional ways. Though no direct evidence connects them to the crime, public pressure results in their indictment.
The trial hinges on circumstantial evidence and the boys' unusual lifestyles, with the prosecution using these as proof of guilt. The film examines how societal expectations, prejudice, and public opinion can influence a jury. By exploring the trial and the lives of the accused, it raises questions about fairness, judgment, and the dangers of blindly following the crowd. It’s a compelling drama that challenges viewers to consider their own assumptions about guilt and innocence.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.5 - 81
Out of Thin AirMovie · 2017 · 85m · Documentary, CrimeOut of Thin Air is a gripping crime drama set in the remote Icelandic landscape. The film investigates a real 1970s cold case: two men who vanished without explanation. Detectives struggle to piece together clues and navigate the complicated relationships within the isolated community surrounding their disappearance. The film's unsettling story is heightened by the stark beauty of Iceland, which mirrors the investigation's emotional intensity. Out of Thin Air is an intense look at human nature, crime, and the strength people find when facing difficult circumstances.IMDb 6.3TMDB 5.9 - 82
Paradise Lost 2: RevelationsMovie · 2000 · 130m · Documentary, CrimeThis film revisits the 1994 murders of three eight-year-old boys in Arkansas and the subsequent trial of three teenagers convicted of the crime. A follow-up to *Paradise Lost*, *Revelations* includes new interviews with the convicted men, as well as with the original judge and police investigators involved in the case.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2 - 83
The Price of HonorMovie · 2014"The Price of Honor" is a documentary detailing the 2008 murders of teenage sisters Sarah and Amina Said in Texas. The killings were a premeditated honor killing orchestrated and carried out by their father, Yaser Said.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.0 - 84
No Stone UnturnedMovie · 2017 · 111mIreland's 1994 World Cup victory over Italy is a cherished moment, yet overshadowed by a tragic event. While watching the game in a Northern Ireland pub, six people were murdered by terrorists. Disturbingly, no one was ever held accountable. For over two decades, the victims' families have sought answers. Now, they may finally have them. But the truth they uncover reveals a larger issue: what happens when governments conceal the truth?IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.6 - 85Fred and Rose: The West MurdersMovie · 2008 · 129mIn 1994, police discovered the bodies of nine young women hidden in the house of Gloucester builder Fred West and his wife Rose. Newly released police tapes show Fred West making disturbing confessions following the discovery of his teenage daughter Heather's body. The tapes also reveal home movies depicting the family home being used as a brothel by Rose, while the children were present.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.0
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Jonestown: The Life and Death of Peoples TempleMovie · 2006 · 86m · Documentary, History, TV MovieThis documentary presents previously unseen footage offering a stark examination of the Peoples Temple, led by Jim Jones. In 1978, Jones guided over 900 followers to Guyana, where he commanded a mass suicide using poisoned drink.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.1 - 87
Cabin 28: The Keddie MurdersMovie · 2021"The Keddie Murders" is a 1981 unsolved case in which four people were murdered in Keddie, a former resort town in the Sierra Nevada mountains of Northern California. - 88
A Murder in the ParkMovie · 2015 · 91mDocumentary filmmakers claim Anthony Porter, a man who avoided the death penalty due to a college journalism program's intervention, was in fact guilty. The film argues that an innocent person was wrongly imprisoned.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2 - 89
The Murderer of PedralbesMovie · 1978 · 86mThis documentary explores the case of José Luis Cerveto, a man convicted of murder.IMDb 7.5TMDB 6.9 - 90
TalhotblondMovie · 2009 · 83m · Documentary, ThrillerThis is the true story of a love triangle that unfolds entirely online. Deception in the digital world escalates to murder, as a teenage woman known as 'talhotblond' uses online personas to attract men. The film reveals a disturbing true crime case highlighting the internet's capacity to amplify dangerous desires.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.6 - 91
Who Took JohnnyMovie · 2014 · 80m · DocumentaryThis film follows Noreen Gosch, a mother searching for answers thirty years after her son Johnny vanished. The story explores her journey through puzzling encounters and unsettling discoveries as she closes in on someone believed to be involved in his abduction. Noreen’s relentless pursuit of the truth exposes the dark side of her son's disappearance and reveals a powerful story of love, strength, and a mother's unwavering resolve to find answers.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9 - 92
The Agony and Ecstasy of Phil SpectorMovie · 2008 · 100mPhil Spector was a groundbreaking figure in American music, renowned for producing artists like John Lennon and Tina Turner. However, by April 2009, he had been convicted of murder. Vikram Jayanti's documentary presents a different side of Spector than the image often portrayed in sensationalized media coverage – not as the stern defendant, but as a charismatic and astute music executive who genuinely believes in his importance to popular music history.IMDb 7.2TMDB 5.6 - 93
3 ½ Minutes, 10 BulletsMovie · 2015 · 98m · Documentary, Thriller, TV MovieOn Black Friday, November 2012, four teenage boys in a red SUV stop at a gas station after a day of shopping. While one boy gets a soda and gum, a couple arrives next to them for wine. An argument erupts when the couple asks the boys to lower their music. The situation escalates, resulting in a deadly exchange of gunfire: three and a half minutes and ten bullets later, one of the boys is dead. *3½ MINUTES* examines the consequences of this tragic event.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.3 - 94
SantoallaMovie · 2016 · 83mMartin and Margo Verfondern, a Dutch couple, relocate to the isolated Spanish village of Santoalla seeking a fresh start. Their arrival sparks friction with the local community, culminating in Martin's mysterious disappearance.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.1 - 95
Very Young GirlsMovie · 2007 · 83m"Very Young Girls," named for the fact that the average age when girls enter prostitution in the U.S. is thirteen, follows Rachel Lloyd. A former victim of sex trafficking, she founded the New York City organization GEMS (Girls Educational and Mentoring Services) to help young women escape exploitation and build new lives free from pimps.IMDb 6.4TMDB 5.2 - 96
Goodnight, Sugar Babe: The Killing of Vera Jo ReigleMovie · 2013 · 87mThe discovery of a young, mentally challenged mother's body, brutally mutilated, sets off a chain of events leading to a shockingly unbelievable crime that remains unsolved. Filmmaker J. David Miles reveals, for the first time, the details of this case by exploring the mind of a powerful woman at the center of a small-town crime family. His investigation uncovers a conspiracy that has baffled law enforcement for years, presenting a disturbing and deeply affecting alternative motive to the one established in court. Miles achieves this by directly interviewing the perpetrators themselves, offering a unique and unprecedented true crime story.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.3 - 97
The DogMovie · 2013 · 100m · DocumentaryIn 1972, John Wojtowicz attempted to rob a Brooklyn bank to fund his lover's sex-change surgery. This event inspired the film *Dog Day Afternoon*. Here, Wojtowicz recounts his story for the first time, offering a uniquely offensive, humorous, and poignant perspective. The film provides a historical look at New York's gay liberation movement, where Wojtowicz was a key figure. Later footage shows him as a continuing force of rebellion, supported by his mother Terry, whose wit and charm are central to the film. Wojtowicz and those who witnessed the robbery detail the events and motivations behind it.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.7 - 98
The Seven FiveMovie · 2015 · 102m · DocumentaryMichael Dowd was the most corrupt police officer in New York City's history. During the 1980s, while on duty in Brooklyn, he engaged in theft and drug dealing.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.3 - 99
Team FoxcatcherMovie · 2016 · 91m · DocumentaryUsing previously unseen home video footage, this film details the increasingly paranoid decline of John E. du Pont and the murder of Olympic wrestler Dave Schultz.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.0 - 100
The Six Degrees of Helter SkelterMovie · 2009 · 105m · DocumentaryHollywood historian Scott Michaels guides viewers through this comprehensive documentary, featuring previously unseen autopsy reports, numerous rare photographs, original music recordings by the Manson Family, and contemporary footage of the sites where the crimes occurred. It offers the most complete cinematic account of the Manson Murders to date.IMDb 6.5TMDB 7.2
