If you’re like us and have a soft spot for unravelling mysteries, you know the joy of finding the perfect crime documentary. It’s a thrill ride filled with intrigue, suspense, and those jaw-dropping moments where you say, “Wait, what?” Great crime documentaries make you question everything, pull you into the darkest corners of human nature, and keep you hooked from start to finish. Today, we will talk about the best crime documentaries of all time— a journey into deception, betrayal, and justice.
#1 The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst
Let’s start with a heavy hitter. What are you waiting for if you haven’t watched The Jinx yet? This six-part crime documentary series tells the story of Robert Durst, a wealthy real estate heir whose life is marred by mysterious disappearances and murders. The pacing of the series is brilliant, unfolding layers of Durst’s life and crimes like a masterclass in storytelling. Without spoiling too much, We’ll just say this: the final episode of The Jinx is one of the most shocking and unforgettable moments in crime documentary history.
#2 Making a Murderer
It is the series that kickstarted a global obsession with true crime documentaries. Making a Murderer follows the story of Steven Avery, a man wrongfully convicted of a crime and then, after being acquitted, arrested for a new crime under highly suspicious circumstances. The ten-part crime documentary took over social media, sparking debates about justice, police corruption, and the flaws in the legal system. Every twist and turn in Avery’s story will leave you questioning, is justice truly blind?
#3 Wild Wild Country
This one differs slightly from your typical crime documentary but is no less captivating. Wild Wild Country tells the story of the Rajneesh movement and its attempt to establish a utopian commune in rural Oregon during the 1980s. What starts as a spiritual movement quickly spirals into a tale of power, manipulation, and criminal activities, including bioterrorism. The documentary paints a fascinating picture of how a group’s ideals can quickly descend into chaos and criminality.
#4 Evil Genius: The True Story of America’s Most Diabolical Bank Heist
Ever heard of the “pizza bomber” case? Evil Genius explores this infamous bank robbery in which a pizza delivery man was forced to rob a bank with a bomb strapped to his neck. The documentary takes viewers through a web of conspiracy, deception, and murder; all centered around one of the most bizarre heists in history. The deeper you dive into the case, the more mind-boggling it becomes. It’s a crime documentary that will leave you questioning every detail long after the credits roll.
#5 Abducted in Plain Sight
Hold onto your seats because this is one of the true crime documentaries that is nothing short of jaw-dropping. Abducted in Plain Sight tells the story of a young girl who was abducted not once but twice by a family friend. This crime documentary explores how a manipulative and charismatic predator was able to exploit the trust of a family, creating a chilling portrait of how evil can hide in plain sight. The story gets more bizarre with each minute, leaving viewers shocked by how deeply this man infiltrated the lives of his victims.
#6 The Staircase
If you’re into courtroom drama with a mystery that keeps you guessing, The Staircase is a must-watch. This crime documentary revolves around the trial of Michael Peterson, a novelist accused of murdering his wife. She was found dead at the bottom of a staircase in their home, and the circumstances surrounding her death are murky at best. The documentary spans over a decade, offering an inside look at the trial, the legal strategies, and the toll it takes on Peterson and his family. By the end, you’ll find yourself debating whether it was an accident—or something more sinister.
Also read, Top 10 Hollywood Movies Based on True Stories That are Unmissable
#7 The Keepers
A deeply emotional and haunting crime documentary, The Keepers investigates the unsolved murder of Sister Cathy Cesnik, a Catholic nun and teacher in Baltimore. The series doesn’t just focus on her death; it delves into the dark underbelly of the Catholic Church, exposing decades of abuse and corruption. As survivors come forward to share their harrowing stories, the documentary becomes a powerful testament to the strength of those seeking justice.
There you have it—the crème de la crème of crime documentaries that you simply can’t miss! Each of these films and series brings something unique to the table, whether it’s unravelling mind-bending mysteries, exposing corruption, or exploring the psychology of criminals. If you’re a fan of this genre, you’ll appreciate how a crime documentary manages to captivate while delivering deeper insights into the human condition.
Now, the only question left is: which one are you watching first?
