If you’re a fan of true crime documentaries like Evil Genius: The True Story of America’s Most Diabolical Bank Heist, you’re in for a treat. This genre delves into the most perplexing and gripping real-life criminal cases, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. Here are 13 movies that will captivate you just as much.
1. The Imposter
The Imposter is a gripping documentary about the disappearance of a 13-year-old boy and the stranger who claims to be him years later. Directed by Bart Layton, this film stars Adam O’Brian and Anna Ruben, delivering a shocking story of deception and identity.
2. Abducted in Plain Sight
Abducted in Plain Sight tells the harrowing story of a young girl kidnapped by a family friend not once, but twice. Directed by Skye Borgman, this documentary features Jan Broberg and Mary Ann Broberg, unraveling a chilling tale of manipulation and betrayal.
3. Making a Murderer
Making a Murderer is a Netflix series that follows the story of Steven Avery, a man who was wrongfully convicted of a crime, only to find himself accused of another murder. The series stars Steven Avery and Brendan Dassey, offering a deep dive into the American justice system.
4. The Staircase
The Staircase is a documentary series about the trial of Michael Peterson, accused of murdering his wife Kathleen. Directed by Jean-Xavier de Lestrade, this series features Michael Peterson and his defense team, providing an in-depth look at the complexities of the legal process.
5. Wild Wild Country
Wild Wild Country explores the controversial Indian guru Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh and his community in Oregon. Directed by Maclain and Chapman Way, this series stars Ma Anand Sheela and Philip Toelkes, delving into the conflict between the commune and the local residents.
6. The Keepers
The Keepers investigates the unsolved murder of Sister Cathy Cesnik and its connection to a conspiracy of sexual abuse in the Catholic Church. Directed by Ryan White, the series features Gemma Hoskins and Abbie Schaub, revealing a disturbing cover-up.
7. Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father
Dear Zachary is a heart-wrenching documentary by Kurt Kuenne, chronicling the murder of his friend Andrew Bagby and the subsequent legal battle for custody of Andrew’s son. Starring Kurt Kuenne and Kate Bagby, the film is both a tribute and a call for justice.
8. The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst
The Jinx is a six-part HBO documentary series about real estate heir Robert Durst, who is suspected of multiple murders. Directed by Andrew Jarecki, the series stars Robert Durst himself, unraveling a chilling narrative of wealth, power, and crime.
9. Amanda Knox
Amanda Knox is a documentary that revisits the infamous case of the American student accused of murdering her roommate in Italy. Directed by Rod Blackhurst and Brian McGinn, the film features Amanda Knox and Raffaele Sollecito, exploring the media frenzy and legal battles that ensued.
10. The Central Park Five
The Central Park Five is a documentary by Ken Burns, Sarah Burns, and David McMahon, detailing the wrongful conviction of five teenagers for a brutal assault in Central Park. Starring Antron McCray and Kevin Richardson, the film highlights racial tensions and miscarriages of justice.
11. Casting JonBenet
Casting JonBenet is a unique documentary that examines the infamous unsolved murder of child beauty queen JonBenet Ramsey through the eyes of local actors auditioning for roles in a dramatization of the case. Directed by Kitty Green, the film blends fact and fiction to explore public fascination with the crime.
12. The Thin Blue Line
The Thin Blue Line is a groundbreaking documentary by Errol Morris that helped exonerate Randall Dale Adams, a man wrongfully convicted of murder. Featuring interviews and re-enactments, the film stars Randall Adams and David Harris, showcasing the flaws in the criminal justice system.
13. Mommy Dead and Dearest
Mommy Dead and Dearest is an HBO documentary that explores the shocking case of Gypsy Rose Blanchard, who conspired to murder her abusive mother. Directed by Erin Lee Carr, the film stars Gypsy Rose Blanchard and Nicholas Godejohn, revealing a twisted tale of Munchausen by proxy and betrayal.
These documentaries and series are sure to satisfy your craving for true crime stories. Each one offers a unique perspective on some of the most intriguing and unsettling cases in recent history.
