136 True Crime Documentaries to Watch Now
136 titles
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West of MemphisMovie · 2012 · 150m · DocumentaryThis documentary reveals the untold story of a desperate struggle for truth. Made by those who experienced it firsthand, the film offers unprecedented access to the defense's inner workings, showing the investigation, research, and appeals process in detail. It unveils shocking and disturbing new information about a case that continues to impact the American South.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.4 - 102
The Cannibal That Walked FreeMovie · 2007 · 47m"The Cannibal That Walked Free" (also known as "Cannibal Superstar") is a British documentary by Visual Voodoo for Channel Five. It offers direct access to explore the unusual psychology and notoriety of Japanese cannibal Issei Sagawa, who achieved a disturbing level of celebrity fame.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.8 - 103
Issei Sagawa: Excuse Me For LivingMovie · 1993 · 50mThis film chronicles the life of Issei Sagawa, a Japanese student who murdered his Dutch girlfriend, dismembered her, boiled her remains, and consumed them. Found insane, he later documented his crime in the book "In the Fog," which became a bestseller. Released from a French psychiatric hospital in 1984, with the condition he remain in Japan, he was released from the Japanese facility a year later. Since then, Sagawa has authored five books on crime and gained notoriety among avant-garde circles. In the film, Sagawa discusses his experiences and reads from his writings.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.0 - 104
The Trial of Jeffrey Dahmer: Serial KillerMovie · 1992 · 93mJeffrey Dahmer was indicted on 17 murder charges, later reduced to 15. He was not charged in the attempted murder of Edwards. His trial began on January 30, 1992. Faced with overwhelming evidence, Dahmer pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity. The two-week trial concluded with the court finding him sane and guilty on 15 counts of murder. He was sentenced to 15 life terms, totaling 957 years in prison. During his sentencing hearing, Dahmer expressed remorse and a desire for his own death.IMDb 7.4TMDB 9.0 - 105Death DiplomaMovie · 1987 · 50mThis documentary profiles several infamous American murderers, including Charles Manson and his followers, Kenneth Bianchi, known as the "Hillside Strangler," Henry Lee Lucas, and Otis Toole. The film features interview segments and details their criminal actions.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.0
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The Jeffrey Dahmer FilesMovie · 2013 · 76mThis documentary blends archival footage, interviews, and dramatized scenes to explore the lives of those connected to Jeffrey Dahmer in the summer of his 1991 arrest.IMDb 6.3TMDB 5.5 - 107
In a Town This SizeMovie · 2011 · 71m"In A Town This Size" explores the hidden tragedy of childhood sexual abuse in an Oklahoma community. The film details how a respected former pediatrician, the perpetrator of these crimes, is finally held accountable. Through powerful first-person accounts from victims, their families, and professionals, the film reveals the enduring devastation caused by such abuse. Spanning the 1960s and 1970s to the present day, these personal stories are both heartbreaking and hopeful. "In A Town This Size" compels audiences to confront child sexual abuse as a critical social issue and advocates for changes to state statutes of limitations.IMDb 6.3TMDB 5.3 - 108
The Krays - The Prison YearsMovie · 2016 · 44mDiscovery Channel presents a detailed look at the Kray twins' lives after they were imprisoned. This documentary features previously unseen footage, interviews, and reconstructions to chronicle their experiences from 1968 until their deaths. The film covers their trial, Ronnie Kray's commitment to Broadmoor after being diagnosed as mentally ill, their activities while incarcerated, and their marriages. Interviewed sources include those who knew the Krays personally: Wilf Pine, Ronnie Kray's manager; Freddie Foreman, who was convicted alongside the twins for disposing of a body; and Maureen Flanagan, a close friend and former model whom Reggie Kray proposed to repeatedly while in prison.IMDb 7.8 - 109
Life After MansonMovie · 2014 · 25m*Life After Manson* is an intimate look at one of history's most infamous crimes and its notorious killer. In an exclusive interview, Patricia Krenwinkel, a member of the Manson Family, recounts her unusual relationship with the charismatic Charles Manson. This relationship led her to abandon all moral boundaries, ultimately resulting in the brutal murders she committed to gain his approval. The film is a provocative character study exploring a woman grappling with her past, the difficult process of understanding the consequences of her actions, and the possibility of forgiveness. Can society offer her the same, and can anyone understand a woman who took lives in a desperate search for love?IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.6 - 110
Audrie & DaisyMovie · 2016 · 95m · DocumentaryThis documentary examines three rape cases, focusing on the experiences of two American high school students, Audrie Pott and Daisy Coleman, who were 15 and 14 years old, respectively, when the assaults occurred. Following the attacks, both victims and their families faced significant abuse and cyberbullying.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1 - 111
Kids for CashMovie · 2014 · 102m · Crime, Documentary, DramaRobert May's film examines the story of a former judge who accepted bribes to sentence young people to prison, often for very minor offenses.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.6 - 112
One Minute to NineMovie · 2007 · 83m"One Minute to Nine," also titled "Every F---ing Day of My Life," follows Wendy Maldonado during her final five days of freedom before she and her son are sentenced for the manslaughter of her husband. The film also depicts the years of domestic abuse the family endured leading up to his death.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.6 - 113My Neighbor, My KillerMovie · 2009 · 80mFollowing the genocide, the people of Rwanda strive for healing and unity through a deliberate effort of acknowledging the past and offering forgiveness.IMDb 7.8TMDB 6.5
- 114Reflections of the PastMovie · 2010 · 89mThe 1954 murder of Honora Parker in suburban Christchurch, New Zealand, by teenage friends Pauline Parker and Juliet Hulme, remains a deeply unsettling case that has captivated public attention. In 1994, Peter Jackson adapted the events into the film 'Heavenly Creatures,' starring Kate Winslet and Melanie Lynskey. This documentary explores the complex relationship between Pauline and Juliet, and the details surrounding the crime.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0
- 115
Perfect Murder, Perfect Town: JonBenét and the City of BoulderMovie · 2000 · 178mThe case of six-year-old JonBenét Ramsey's murder and the intense media scrutiny surrounding it. The extensive media coverage complicated the investigation into the crime.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.6 - 116
The Death and Life of Marsha P. JohnsonMovie · 2017 · 105m · Documentary"The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson" is a documentary exploring the life of Marsha P. Johnson, a key activist in New York City's gay community since the Stonewall era. As a co-founder of S.T.A.R., she dedicated herself to fighting for LGBTQ+ rights until her death in 1992. The NYPD initially ruled it a suicide, a verdict disputed by those who knew her. The film follows activist Victoria Cruz as she investigates the circumstances of Johnson's death while honoring her lasting impact on the fight for equality. It’s a compelling blend of mystery and social history, offering a thoughtful look at an iconic figure in the LGBTQ+ rights movement.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1 - 117
CanibaMovie · 2017 · 96m*Caniba* is a film exploring themes of flesh and desire. It examines the unsettling role of cannibalism in human nature through the story of Issei Sagawa, a Japanese man, and his enigmatic connection with his brother, Jun Sagawa.IMDb 5.6TMDB 5.6 - 118
The Brandon Teena StoryMovie · 1998 · 89mThis documentary recounts the story of Brandon Teena, a transgender man whose life and tragic death in rural Nebraska in 1993 became a national story. Teena was murdered along with two friends, and the film explores the circumstances surrounding their deaths.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.1 - 119Interview with a CannibalMovie · 2008 · 121mA revealing interview with Armin Meiwes, known as the "Cannibal of Rotenburg."IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.7
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Just, Melvin: Just EvilMovie · 2000 · 75mThis documentary examines the devastating impact of a man's sexual abuse of multiple generations of his children and stepchildren.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.4 - 121
The ForgivenessMovie · 2009 · 65mAndrés Rabadán shocked the world by killing his father with a crossbow. Beyond the media frenzy, what really happened to the young man who became known as the "maniac with the crossbow"?IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.9 - 122
Inside The Manson GangMovie · 2007 · 85mThis is the incredible, true story, with exclusive footage, of the Manson Gang – the 20th century's most dangerous white gang. Guided by Robert Hendrickson, viewers witness the gang and America's most infamous gangster firsthand. No actors or recreations; just the real story.IMDb 5.9TMDB 5.0 - 123
The Thin Blue LineMovie · 1988 · 103m · Crime, DocumentaryDocumentarian Errol Morris uses detailed re-enactments to explore the difficult events following the murder of a Dallas police officer. He reconstructs the crime scene and investigation to examine the complicated mix of truth, deception, and emotions involved in such a tragedy. Combining cinematic storytelling with investigative journalism, Morris creates a compelling narrative that reveals the human side of the story behind the news. The film examines themes of justice, trust, and loyalty, while also highlighting the difficulties faced by law enforcement today.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.6 - 124
Head Cases: Serial Killers in the Delaware ValleyMovie · 2013 · 110mThis documentary explores the story of serial killer Wayne Montgomery and the individuals who became involved with him.IMDb 4.3TMDB 5.3 - 125
4 Little GirlsMovie · 1997 · 102m · Documentary, TV MovieSpike Lee's film examines the 1963 bombing of a black church in Birmingham, Alabama, during Sunday school, which killed four young girls. Using detailed research and recreations, Lee reveals the complex political tensions, hateful actions, and societal inequalities that led to this tragedy. The film includes an interview with former Alabama Governor George Wallace, who reflects on his involvement during that difficult time and the larger story of civil rights in America. This compelling film tells the painful story of a devastating act of violence and reminds us of the continuing fight for equality and justice in American history.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.2 - 126
Whitey: United States of America v. James J. BulgerMovie · 2014 · 107m · Crime, DocumentaryThis documentary chronicles the highly publicized trial of James 'Whitey' Bulger, a notorious gangster. The legal proceedings serve as a lens to examine claims of corruption within powerful law enforcement agencies. Academy Award-nominated director Joe Berlinger investigates Bulger's complex ties with the FBI and Department of Justice, revealing how these relationships enabled him to control a criminal organization in Boston for many years.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.4 - 127
Love ChildMovie · 2014 · 75mIn Seoul, South Korea, a young couple is on trial for neglect after their infant daughter dies, allegedly due to the parents' excessive engagement with an online fantasy game. *Love Child* documents the 2010 trial and the resulting verdict, which established a significant legal precedent worldwide as virtual worlds increasingly shape real life.IMDb 5.6TMDB 5.3 - 128
Sins of My FatherMovie · 2009 · 94mNicolas Entel's documentary explores the life of Pablo Escobar, the notorious Colombian drug lord, through the perspectives of his son Sebastian and the sons of two of his most significant victims. Sebastian recounts his experiences of wealth and living in hiding, but primarily he seeks to break the cycle of violence and find reconciliation with the families his father devastated.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.5 - 129
The Video Diary of Ricardo LopezMovie · 2000 · 70m · Documentary, HistoryThis film offers an intimate look at Ricardo Lopez, a man isolated from society, during the final days of 1996. He meticulously crafts and sends a letter bomb containing sulfuric acid to Icelandic singer Björk, then prepares to record his own suicide on video before returning home.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.0 - 130Interview with a CannibalMovie · 2012 · 33mIssei Sagawa murdered an innocent woman and consumed her flesh over three days. Legal loopholes allowed him to remain free. Declared insane and institutionalized in Paris, Sagawa was soon deported due to public pressure. In Japan, a series of unusual legal maneuvers and psychiatric evaluations led doctors to conclude he was "sane, but evil." On August 12, 1986, Sagawa left Tokyo's Matsuzawa Psychiatric hospital and has remained a free man ever since.IMDb 6.5TMDB 4.0
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Killing for LoveMovie · 2016 · 131m · Crime, DocumentaryIn 1985, Derek and Nancy Haysom were murdered in their Lynchburg, Virginia home. Their daughter Elizabeth and her boyfriend Jens Söring became suspects. Fearing prosecution, they fled to Europe but were eventually apprehended and returned to the United States. Elizabeth was given a 90-year prison sentence for incitement to murder, while Söring received two life sentences. Karin Steinberger, Marcus Vetter, and their team spent over three years investigating this highly publicized case, revealing new evidence – notably, none of the blood found at the crime scene belonged to Jens Söring.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.2 - 132
Children of GodMovie · 1994 · 63mA former member reflects on the lasting impact of their upbringing within a secretive group. The group's deeply troubling practices included the sexual abuse of children.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.5 - 133
The Iceman Confesses: Secrets of a Mafia HitmanMovie · 2001 · 43mRichard Kuklinski presented himself as a devoted husband and loving father, but he was also a ruthless killer. Ten years after a previous look inside his life, the convicted murderer, who openly admits to killing over 100 people, allows viewers a further glimpse into his chillingly calculating mind. This sequel to the 1992 film *The Iceman Tapes: Conversations with a Killer* offers new details about his work as one of the Mafia's most infamous assassins and reveals confessions related to several unsolved murders.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3 - 134
The WitnessMovie · 2015 · 86m · DocumentaryA man investigates the true story behind Kitty Genovese's alleged murder. The event, where she was reportedly attacked in broad daylight with numerous witnesses present, cemented her image as a symbol of indifference in city life. He seeks to uncover details about her life, often overlooked, and the circumstances surrounding her death.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.6 - 135
My Friend RockefellerMovie · 2015 · 87mChristian Karl Gerhartsreiter built a life on lies and criminal acts, culminating in his most ambitious deception: posing as a Rockefeller. How did he manage to fool so many people, from all walks of life? The story begins in a small Bavarian town, moves to the most exclusive clubs on the American East Coast, and concludes in a Los Angeles courtroom.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.4 - 136
Profilers: Gaze Into the AbyssMovie · 2014 · 85mThis documentary profiles six criminal profilers working internationally. It offers a look into their methods and the challenges they face in understanding the minds of criminals.IMDb 5.3TMDB 6.5
