The Trials of Gabriel Fernandez is a harrowing documentary series that delves into the tragic and heart-wrenching case of an abused child. For those drawn to the genre of true crime and documentaries, here are 18 other compelling films that offer gripping narratives and powerful performances. You can learn more about the series here.
1. Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father
This emotional documentary chronicles the life and death of Andrew Bagby and the subsequent murder of his son, Zachary. Directed by Kurt Kuenne, it serves as a poignant tribute and a heart-wrenching exploration of loss and justice.
2. The Central Park Five
Directed by Ken Burns, Sarah Burns, and David McMahon, this documentary tells the story of five teenagers wrongfully convicted of a brutal assault in Central Park. The film highlights the miscarriage of justice and the impact on the lives of the accused.
3. Making a Murderer
This Netflix series follows the controversial case of Steven Avery, who was exonerated after 18 years in prison only to be accused of another crime. Directed by Laura Ricciardi and Moira Demos, it examines the complexities and potential flaws within the criminal justice system.
4. The Keepers
Directed by Ryan White, this documentary series investigates the unsolved murder of Sister Cathy Cesnik and its suspected link to a priest accused of abuse. It dives deep into the dark secrets and cover-ups within the Catholic Church.
5. Capturing the Friedmans
This film by Andrew Jarecki explores the arrest and trial of Arnold and Jesse Friedman on child molestation charges. Through home videos and interviews, it paints a complex picture of a family in turmoil.
6. The Imposter
Directed by Bart Layton, this documentary tells the bizarre story of a French con artist who impersonates a missing Texas boy. The film explores themes of deception, identity, and the lengths people go to believe what they want to believe.
7. Abducted in Plain Sight
Directed by Skye Borgman, this documentary recounts the shocking story of a young girl kidnapped twice by a family friend. It delves into the manipulation and betrayal that allowed such events to unfold.
8. The Staircase
This series by Jean-Xavier de Lestrade follows the trial of Michael Peterson, accused of murdering his wife. It provides a detailed look at the legal process and the uncertainties surrounding the case.
9. West of Memphis
Produced by Peter Jackson and directed by Amy J. Berg, this documentary investigates the wrongful conviction of the West Memphis Three. It highlights the flaws in the legal system and the fight for justice.
10. The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst
Directed by Andrew Jarecki, this HBO series explores the life of real estate heir Robert Durst, who is linked to multiple murders. The series is known for its shocking final episode that captures a potential confession.
11. Mommy Dead and Dearest
Directed by Erin Lee Carr, this documentary examines the case of Gypsy Rose Blanchard, who conspired to murder her abusive mother. It delves into the disturbing world of Munchausen syndrome by proxy.
12. The Act
This Hulu series, starring Joey King and Patricia Arquette, dramatizes the true story of Gypsy Rose Blanchard and her mother Dee Dee. It portrays the extreme lengths of Dee Dee’s control and Gypsy’s desperate bid for freedom.
13. Evil Genius: The True Story of America’s Most Diabolical Bank Heist
Directed by Barbara Schroeder, this Netflix series investigates the bizarre 2003 bank robbery involving a pizza delivery man with a bomb strapped to his chest. It unravels a complex web of conspiracy and murder.
14. The Confession Tapes
This Netflix series examines cases where people convicted of crimes claim their confessions were coerced, involuntary, or false. It raises questions about the reliability of confessions and the integrity of the justice system.
15. Who Took Johnny
Directed by David Beilinson, Michael Galinsky, and Suki Hawley, this documentary investigates the 1982 disappearance of Johnny Gosch. It explores the impact on his family and the broader implications for child abduction cases.
16. The Family I Had
Directed by Katie Green and Carlye Rubin, this film tells the story of a mother coping with the aftermath of her teenage son murdering his sister. It delves into themes of grief, forgiveness, and the complexities of familial love.
17. There’s Something Wrong with Aunt Diane
Directed by Liz Garbus, this documentary investigates the tragic 2009 car accident caused by Diane Schuler, which resulted in the deaths of eight people. It examines the mystery surrounding her actions and the impact on the families involved.
18. American Murder: The Family Next Door
This Netflix documentary, directed by Jenny Popplewell, uses raw footage to tell the story of the Watts family murders. It provides an intimate look at the events leading up to the crime and the subsequent investigation.
These films and series offer a deep dive into true crime stories, revealing the complexities and often heartbreaking realities behind each case.
