As a self-proclaimed true crime series connoisseur, I have watched every true crime series there is to be watched in the genre and later went on to research the heck out the stories. It started off by watching poorly written and directed police investigation shows, the only appeal being that some of them are inspired by true events. The casual viewing experience soon turned into an obsession!
The curiosity and thrill that comes with watching true crime are indescribable. The trill being understanding the psyche of serial killers, uncovering a crime with the law enforcement officials or awaiting the final verdict.
The reason for the obsession that pulls us into a rabbit hole of murder, destruction, mystery and justice is answered by Psychologist Dr. Meg Arroll. While speaking to The Telegraph, Dr. Meg said, “True crime stories allows us to explore the darker side of nature in a safe way.”
This list brings you the best of rest from the world of true crime and investigative thrillers. If you are someone already obsessed like me and want a re-watch list or if you want to step into the world of this nitty-gritty genre read along!
1. American Murder: The Family Next Door
It is a bone-chilling documentary about family, greed, betrayal and loss of innocent lives. It is also Netflix’s most watched documentary feature being viewed in almost 56 million households.
Length: 1 hr 23 mins
Watch the trailer here
2. Don’t F**k With Cats: Hunting an Internet Killer
The series narrates events following a crowdfunded online manhunt into a series of animal cruelty acts committed by Canadian Pornographic actor Luka Magnotta, which leads to the eventual killing of a Chinese international student. The docuseries also highlights the obsession of online amateur investigators to solve mysteries and how that obsession leads to them assisting the law enforcement officers in catching the criminal.
Length: 3 episodes (55 mins – 65 mins each)
Watch the trailer here
3. The Serpent
It follows Charles over the years 1975-2000 as he murders and preys on young travellers exploring the ‘hippie trail’ of South Asia. This true crime series shows dramatized events of the actual crimes. This series also subtly highlights racism towards the Asian community in 1970s France.
Apart from the gruesome murders and the cat-and-mouse chase between the killer and law enforcement officials, you can view it for the beautiful costume design and cinematography.
Length: 8 episodes (58 mins – 59 mins each)
Watch the trailer here
4. Mindhunter
The series features notable serial killers like the Co-Ed Killer, Monte, Son of Sam and Charles Manson among others. This series is the perfect blend of true crime, psychological and investigative thriller. Warning! Some of the episodes might leave you feeling sick to your stomach.
Length: 2 Seasons (10 episodes each)
Watch the trailer here
5. Fear City: New York vs The Mafia
The series is shot from the point of view of the FBI and how wiretap technology helped them in dismantling the most powerful Mafia families of New York.
If you are a fan of The Godfather, The Irish Man or any Martin Scorsese movie, this one is definitely worth watching!
Length: 3 Episodes (42 mins – 58 mins each)
Watch the trailer here
6. Amanda Knox
This court trial went on to become one of the most controversial trials in the world with two of the most influential countries (USA and Italy) getting involved. The documentary is very immersive and pulls you right in. Once you start, you will be hooked.
Length: 1 hr 23 mins
Watch the trailer here
7. Manhunt: Unabomber
The motive of the killer is what sets this series apart from the rest on the list. It showcases the themes of loneliness and depression and its effects on one’s motives and morals. A must watch if you wish to view something a little subdued in violence but intense in drama.
Length: 8 Episodes (43 mins each)
Watch the trailer here
8. Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich
The series starts from the first criminal case filed against Jefferey Epstein by the stepmother of a 14-year old survivor who had been taken to Epstein’s mansion by an older girl. She was paid $300 to strip and massage Epstein. This case led to a cascading effect of other survivors coming out and speaking against Jeffrey Epstein and his associates. The docu-series exposes the filthy rich world of Jeffrey Epstein and shows how he used his wealth and power to commit these crimes.
Length: 4 Episodes (56 mins each)
Watch the trailer here
9. Unsolved: The Murders of Tupac and the Notorious B.I.G.
It shows the life of Tupac and Biggie in a very earnest and honorable way-just two young men from humble backgrounds trying to make it big in Hollywood. The show also does a great job at highlighting themes of racism, fame, friendship and greed.
Length: 10 Episodes (46 mins each)
Watch the trailer here
10. Conversations with a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes
The series traces the life of Ted Bundy in the light of his crimes, arrests and escapes. It’s eerie and creepy so much so that Netflix issued a warning to not watch it alone!
Length: 4 Episodes (51 mins – 74 mins each)
Watch the trailer here
11. Night Stalker: The Hunt for a Serial Killer
The series is graphic and shows the murders without any filter. It also hints at Hybristophilia (sexual interest in and attraction to those who commit crimes) and how it plays a role in painting an evil man as a hero.
Length: 4 Episodes (46 mins – 48 mins each)
Watch the trailer here
12. Wild Wild Country
It shows the reality of this cult-like organization and the extent to which the followers of a cult go to please their leader, which eventually leads to attempting a bioterror attack. The series leaves you in a conflict of good vs evil and makes you question the common sense of the population of Rajneeshpuram.
Length: 6 Episodes (64 mins – 71 mins each)
Watch the trailer here
13. The people v OJ Simpson : American Crime Story
The series is an intense courtroom drama that keeps you on the edge of your seat till the last episode.
Length: 10 Episodes (41 mins – 66 mins each)
Watch the trailer here
14. Carmel: Who killed Maria Marta?
The four-part series explores different investigative angles and suspects in each episode making it interesting till the very end. The series reveals family secrets, betrayal and envy.
Length: 4 Episodes (55 mins – 60 mins each)
Watch the trailer here
15. Evil Genius
Length: 4 Episodes (45 mins – 48 mins each)
Watch the trailer here
16. Unsolved mysteries Volumes 1+2
It is perfect for casual viewing, for when you don’t want to binge-watch the whole series in one single sitting.
Length: 2 Seasons (6 episodes each)
Watch the trailer here
17. Room 2806: The Accusation
Length: 4 Episodes (43 mins – 63 mins each)
Watch the trailer here
From courtroom dramas to classic cat and mouse chases, this list has it all! These shows will keep you on the edge of your seats and make you watch your back the next time you walk down the streets. So hop on to the train of murders and mystery where each turn will leave you in state of jittery and let us know which one is your favorite!
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