True crime documentaries have captivated audiences for years, offering a deep dive into real-life mysteries, criminal investigations, and the psychology behind some of the world’s most shocking crimes. Here’s a list of the best true crime documentaries you should add to your watchlist:
List of Best True Crime Documentaries
Here’s a list of the best true crime documentaries you should add to your watchlist, including where to watch them and their ratings:
1. Making a Murderer
This groundbreaking Netflix series follows the story of Steven Avery, a man wrongfully convicted of sexual assault, only to face another criminal charge after his release. With its gripping narrative and examination of potential legal flaws, this documentary keeps viewers questioning justice.
What sets Making a Murderer apart is its meticulous documentation of the events surrounding Avery’s second trial and conviction. Through courtroom footage, interviews, and in-depth investigation, the series raises serious questions about law enforcement’s conduct, evidence reliability, and the legal proceedings’ fairness.
Key elements, such as the mishandling of evidence, conflicts of interest within the investigating agencies, and alleged coercion of Avery’s nephew, Brendan Dassey, into a confession, suggest a profoundly flawed process that may have compromised the pursuit of truth.
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- Rating: 8.6/10 on IMDb
2. The Staircase
A true classic in the genre, The Staircase explores the mysterious death of Kathleen Peterson, whose husband, Michael, was accused of her murder. The series delves into courtroom drama and the forensic details that divided audiences over his guilt or innocence.
The documentary takes viewers on a rollercoaster of revelations, exploring the forensic details that became the cornerstone of the case.
From blood spatter analysis to autopsy findings, the series raises critical questions about the reliability of evidence and the potential for bias in criminal investigations.
It also examines alternative theories about Kathleen’s death, including the now-infamous “owl theory,” which suggests that an attack by a barred owl may have caused her fatal injuries.
These twists and turns keep viewers questioning Michael’s guilt or innocence, making the series as much about the audience’s shifting perceptions as it is about the trial itself.
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- Rating: 7.9/10 on IMDb
3. The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst
HBO’s The Jinx chronicles the life of real estate heir Robert Durst, who has been linked to several murders. The series’ jaw-dropping finale, featuring Durst’s off-camera confession, makes it one of the most unforgettable entries in true crime.
Throughout the series, The Jinx explores themes of privilege and justice, highlighting how Durst’s immense wealth and family connections may have shielded him from scrutiny.
Despite mounting evidence, Durst managed to evade severe consequences for decades, raising uncomfortable questions about the disparities in the legal system and the influence of power and money.
- Where to Watch: HBO Max
- Rating: 8.6/10 on IMDb
4. Evil Genius
This bizarre and chilling documentary focuses on the infamous “pizza bomber” case, where a man was forced to rob a bank while wearing a bomb collar. The unexpected developments in this situation are more bizarre than any story, keeping the audience captivated and eager for more.
The documentary is filled with unexpected revelations that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. From secret scavenger hunts to shocking confessions, each episode introduces new pieces to the puzzle, challenging assumptions about the crime and its perpetrators.
The storytelling is meticulously crafted, combining interviews, archival footage, and re-creations to immerse viewers in the investigation.
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- Rating: 7.5/10 on IMDb
5. Wild Wild Country
This Emmy-winning Netflix series explores the rise and fall of the Rajneeshpuram community in Oregon. The documentary reveals how a seemingly peaceful commune became embroiled in scandals involving bioterrorism and attempted murder.
Wild Wild Country provides a balanced exploration of the events through interviews with former Rajneeshees, residents, law enforcement officials, and journalists.
It doesn’t ignore Bhagwan’s teachings’ charisma and appeal, which attracted thousands of followers worldwide, nor the commune’s leadership’s darker, more destructive actions.
This multifaceted approach leaves viewers questioning how a movement rooted in peace and spirituality devolved into chaos and criminality.
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- Rating: 8.2/10 on IMDb
6. Abducted in Plain Sight
This unsettling documentary tells the story of a young girl who was kidnapped not once but twice by a family friend. In this case, the bizarre twists will leave you shocked and questioning human behaviour.
The documentary sheds light on how Berchtold exploited the family’s trust to gain unprecedented access to Jan, weaving a web of lies and emotional manipulation that ensnared both parents.
His tactics went beyond simple deceit—Berchtold preyed on vulnerabilities, fostering relationships with Jan’s parents to secure his control over her.
These layers of psychological and emotional manipulation led to Jan’s abductions, first at the age of 12 and again at 14, creating an alarming narrative that challenges the conventional understanding of victimhood and complicity.
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- Rating: 6.8/10 on IMDb
7. Night Stalker: The Hunt for a Serial Killer
This Netflix series recounts the terrifying spree of serial killer Richard Ramirez in 1980s Los Angeles. The detailed storytelling and interviews with investigators make it a chilling yet insightful watch.
Ramirez, infamously known as the “Night Stalker,” was a predator who committed a series of brutal murders, assaults, and burglaries. What made his crimes particularly terrifying was their randomness—he targeted victims of all ages, genders, and backgrounds, leaving the city paralyzed with fear.
This unpredictability made him a ghostly figure that seemed unstoppable, and the sense of dread pervaded communities, uniting people in their shared vulnerability.
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- Rating: 7.5/10 on IMDb
8. American Murder: The Family Next Door
Using social media posts, police bodycams, and text messages, this documentary unravels the tragic story of the Watts family murders. It offers a raw and haunting look into the events leading up to the crime.
The use of actual footage lends an eerie authenticity to the documentary, making the viewer feel like they are piecing together the case alongside the investigators. As the truth about Chris’s actions is uncovered during his police interrogations and polygraph test, the film transitions from a mystery to a devastating portrait of domestic violence and betrayal.
What makes American Murder: The Family Next Door especially haunting is its raw portrayal of the human cost of this crime. By focusing on Shanann’s voice through her social media and text messages, the film ensures that she and her daughters remain at the heart of the story, reminding viewers of the lives senselessly taken.
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- Rating: 7.2/10 on IMDb
9. The Keepers
This Netflix series investigates the unsolved murder of Sister Cathy Cesnik, a beloved nun and teacher, and its possible connection to a cover-up of sexual abuse within the Catholic Church. It’s a poignant and powerful documentary that sheds light on systemic corruption.
At the heart of The Keepers are the courageous women who refuse to let Sister Cathy’s story fade into obscurity. Former students like Gemma Hoskins and Abbie Schaub emerge as relentless citizen detectives, unearthing decades-old evidence and advocating for justice.
Their determination drives the narrative forward, shedding light not only on the horrifying abuse many endured but also on the systemic corruption that allowed it to continue unchecked.
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- Rating: 8.1/10 on IMDb
10. Don’t F**k with Cats: Hunting an Internet Killer
This three-part Netflix series follows a group of internet sleuths who band together to track down a killer after disturbing videos surfaced online. The blend of online investigation and real-world consequences makes it a gripping watch.
At its heart, Don’t F**k with Cats is not just about catching a killer—it’s about the power of collective action and the ethical questions that arise in the pursuit of justice. It’s a cautionary tale about the dangerous nexus of the internet, violence, and fame, and it forces viewers to grapple with their complicity in the world of viral content.
Chilling, thought-provoking, and unforgettable, this series is a must-watch for true-crime enthusiasts and anyone interested in the digital age’s profound and sometimes dark impact.
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- Rating: 8.0/10 on IMDb
11. Conversations with a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes
Through archival footage and interviews, this documentary offers a chilling look at the infamous serial killer Ted Bundy. It explores his manipulative charm and the horrific crimes he committed.
Conversations with a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes is not just a recounting of Bundy’s crimes but a sobering exploration of the darker sides of human nature and the systems that failed to stop him.
It leaves viewers grappling with the unsettling reality that evil can often hide in plain sight, cloaked in charm and normalcy. This documentary is a must-watch for true-crime enthusiasts and anyone interested in understanding the complexities of one of the most infamous criminals in history.
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- Rating: 7.8/10 on IMDb
12. I’ll Be Gone in the Dark
Based on Michelle McNamara’s book, this HBO series chronicles the hunt for the Golden State Killer. It’s both a compelling investigation and a tribute to McNamara’s tireless efforts to bring justice to the victims.
The series also serves as a moving tribute to the victims, giving voice to those who endured unimaginable trauma. Survivors share their stories with bravery and honesty, shedding light on the devastating impact of the crimes while also demonstrating the resilience of the human spirit.
These personal accounts add a deeply emotional layer to the narrative, ensuring that the focus remains on justice and healing.
- Where to Watch: HBO Max
- Rating: 7.4/10 on IMDb
13. The Imposter
This documentary tells the strange story of a French man who convinced a grieving Texas family that he was their missing son. In this case, the twists will leave you questioning truth and deception.
Visually striking and emotionally gripping, The Imposter combines dramatic reenactments, interviews, and archival footage to create a narrative that feels as much like a psychological thriller as it does a documentary.
It examines themes of identity, trust, and the lengths people will go to believe what they want to be true. Ultimately, The Imposter is not just a story about a con artist—it’s a chilling exploration of the fragility of truth and the human capacity for self-deception.
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
- Rating: 7.5/10 on IMDb
14. Killer Inside: The Mind of Aaron Hernandez
This Netflix series delves into the life and crimes of NFL player Aaron Hernandez, exploring the factors that led to his downfall, including brain injuries, personal struggles, and his criminal behavior.
Ultimately, Killer Inside: The Mind of Aaron Hernandez is more than just a true-crime story—it is a tragic exploration of how unaddressed trauma, societal pressures, and physical injury can converge in devastating ways.
It leaves viewers with lingering questions about responsibility, the impact of sports culture, and the complex nature of human behavior.
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- Rating: 7.4/10 on IMDb
15. Murder Among the Mormons
This gripping documentary explores a series of deadly bombings in Utah’s Mormon community and the shocking secrets that were uncovered during the investigation.
The story centers on Mark Hofmann, a skilled forger whose talent for creating counterfeit historical documents made him a prominent figure in rare artifacts.
Hofmann’s ability to produce seemingly authentic documents, including those related to the history of the Mormon Church, earned him the trust and admiration of collectors, historians, and church members alike.
However, the discovery of these documents—and their controversial implications for the church’s history—set the stage for an unfolding tragedy.
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- Rating: 7.0/10 on IMDb
16. The Fog of Murder
This compelling documentary series investigates lesser-known murder cases, uncovering the complexities of the investigations and the emotional toll on everyone involved.
Each episode delves deeply into a specific case, unraveling the intricate details of the crime, the investigation, and the eventual resolution—or lack thereof.
The series explores the psychological and emotional toll on everyone involved, from law enforcement officers piecing together fragmented evidence to families grappling with loss and uncertainty.
Through candid interviews and reenactments, The Fog of Murder humanizes these stories, allowing viewers to connect with the people at their center.
- Where to Watch: Discovery+
- Rating: 6.7/10 on IMDb
17. City of Angels | City of Death
This Hulu series examines the serial killer epidemic in Los Angeles during the 1970s and 1980s, focusing on the detectives who worked tirelessly to solve these chilling cases.
One of the standout aspects of City of Angels | City of Death is its focus on the human cost of these crimes. Through interviews with surviving victims, family members, and law enforcement, the series emphasizes the profound impact these serial killers had on the community.
It also explores how the wave of violence reshaped law enforcement practices and catalyzed changes in investigations, including the development of task forces and the eventual integration of DNA technology.
- Where to Watch: Hulu
- Rating: 7.6/10 on IMDb
18. Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father
It is an emotional and heart-wrenching documentary that starts as a tribute to a murdered friend but evolves into a shocking tale of legal loopholes and tragedy.
Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father is more than a documentary—it is a testament to the enduring strength of love, the deep scars of loss, and the relentless pursuit of justice.
It is a film that lingers in your mind and heart long after the credits roll, reminding viewers of the fragility of life and the urgent need for systemic change to prevent future tragedies.
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
- Rating: 8.5/10 on IMDb
19. Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills
This landmark documentary trilogy explores the controversial case of the West Memphis Three, raising questions about justice, prejudice, and media influence.
What makes Paradise Lost particularly powerful is its ability to humanize all sides of the story. It does not shy away from the pain and anger of the victims’ families while simultaneously shedding light on the plight of the accused.
The trilogy forces viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about the flaws in the criminal justice system, the dangers of societal scapegoating, and the devastating consequences of wrongful convictions.
- Where to Watch: HBO Max
- Rating: 8.3/10 on IMDb
20. Sins of Our Mother
This Netflix series delves into the case of Lori Vallow, whose family tragedy turned into a series of mysterious deaths and shocking revelations.
The series meticulously combines Lori’s descent from a doting mother into a figure at the centre of a dark and sinister narrative. Through interviews with family members, friends, law enforcement, and survivors, it delves into Lori’s radicalisation, influenced by her association with Chad Daybell and their shared belief in an impending end-of-day prophecy.
This apocalyptic ideology became the catalyst for a series of shocking decisions and events that left lives shattered and questions unanswered.
- Where to Watch: Netflix
- Rating: 7.3/10 on IMDb
Final Thoughts
True crime documentaries offer more than just entertainment; they provide insights into human behaviour, the justice system, and societal issues. Whether you’re drawn to legal dramas, psychological mysteries, or chilling real-life tales, this list has something for every true crime enthusiast. Grab your popcorn and dive into these captivating stories!
