True crime documentaries have a way of gripping viewers with their real-life drama and suspense. If you enjoyed The Confession Tapes, you’ll likely be on the lookout for more thrilling true crime stories. Below, I’ve compiled a list of 12 movies that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Check out the trailers by clicking on the provided links.
1. Making a Murderer
Making a Murderer follows the story of Steven Avery, a man who was wrongfully convicted of sexual assault and attempted murder, only to be later accused of another crime. This gripping documentary series stars Steven Avery and Brendan Dassey and delves deep into the flaws of the criminal justice system.
2. The Staircase
The Staircase is a riveting documentary that explores the mysterious death of Kathleen Peterson and the subsequent trial of her husband, Michael Peterson. Featuring Michael Peterson and David Rudolf, this series provides a comprehensive look at the legal battles and personal struggles involved.
3. The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst
The Jinx examines the life of real estate heir Robert Durst and the string of deaths and disappearances connected to him. With Robert Durst himself and Andrew Jarecki, this documentary is both chilling and captivating, revealing shocking confessions and twists.
4. Wild Wild Country
Wild Wild Country chronicles the rise and fall of the Rajneeshpuram community in Oregon, led by the controversial guru Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh. Starring Ma Anand Sheela and Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, this series delves into the clash between the cult and the local community, leading to a national scandal.
5. The Keepers
The Keepers investigates the unsolved murder of Sister Cathy Cesnik and the potential cover-up involving the Catholic Church. Featuring Jean Wehner and Gemma Hoskins, this series uncovers decades-old secrets and horrifying allegations of abuse.
6. Amanda Knox
Amanda Knox is a documentary that tells the story of Amanda Knox, an American student accused of murdering her roommate in Italy. Starring Amanda Knox and Raffaele Sollecito, this film provides an in-depth look at the media frenzy and legal battles surrounding the case.
7. The Central Park Five
The Central Park Five recounts the harrowing story of five teenagers wrongfully convicted of assaulting a jogger in Central Park. Featuring Antron McCray and Kevin Richardson, this documentary highlights the racial tensions and injustices of the 1989 case.
8. Evil Genius
Evil Genius delves into the bizarre and complex case of the “pizza bomber” heist, where a man was forced to rob a bank with a bomb strapped around his neck. Starring Marjorie Diehl-Armstrong and Bill Rothstein, this series uncovers the twisted minds behind the crime.
9. The Thin Blue Line
The Thin Blue Line is a groundbreaking documentary that helped overturn the wrongful conviction of Randall Dale Adams for the murder of a Dallas police officer. Featuring Randall Dale Adams and David Harris, this film uses reenactments and interviews to reveal the truth.
10. Capturing the Friedmans
Capturing the Friedmans explores the unsettling case of the Friedman family, who were accused of child molestation in the 1980s. Starring Arnold Friedman and Jesse Friedman, this documentary uses home videos and interviews to piece together the disturbing events.
11. Dear Zachary: A Letter to a Son About His Father
Dear Zachary is a heart-wrenching documentary created by filmmaker Kurt Kuenne as a tribute to his murdered friend, Andrew Bagby. Featuring Kurt Kuenne and David Bagby, this film is both a personal journey and a quest for justice.
12. The Imposter
The Imposter tells the incredible true story of a French con artist who convinces a grieving Texas family that he is their missing son. Starring Frédéric Bourdin and Carey Gibson, this documentary is a fascinating exploration of deception and identity.
