Step into the dark and twisted world of serial killers with these 15 gripping documentaries available on Netflix.
Like peering through a cracked window into the mind of madness, each film provides a chilling and immersive experience that will leave you both fascinated and horrified.
Just like a moth drawn to a flame, you can’t help but be captivated by the macabre tales of these notorious killers.
In this article, we will take you on a journey where nightmares become reality.
As you delve deep into the psyche of some of history’s most notorious murderers, you’ll find yourself unable to look away from the screen.
These films offer more than just entertainment; they offer insight into the darkest corners of humanity.
With each documentary, you’ll gain an understanding of how evil can lurk in even the most ordinary-looking individuals.
So grab your popcorn, settle in for a spine-chilling marathon, and let these gripping stories remind you why your own safe haven is so precious.
From infamous figures like Ted Bundy and Jeffrey Dahmer to lesser-known yet equally haunting cases, prepare yourself for a rollercoaster ride that will make your heart race and send shivers down your spine.
But fear not – as you watch from the comfort of your living room, remember that safety lies within these stories being confined to the realms of fiction… or at least let’s hope so.
15 Best Serial Killer Documentaries On Netflix: Binge-Worthy
If you’re a true crime enthusiast looking for some binge-worthy documentaries on Netflix, then you can’t miss out on ‘Memories of a Murderer: The Nilsen Tapes (2021). It delves into the chilling confessions of one of Britain’s most notorious serial killers.
Another gripping documentary to add to your watchlist is ‘Capturing the Killer Nurse.’ It uncovers the shocking story of a nurse who became a cold-blooded murderer.
And for those fascinated by unsolved mysteries, ‘Myth of the Zodiac Killer’ offers a deep dive into the enigmatic case that has baffled investigators for decades.
Plus, don’t forget to check out ‘Don’t F**k With Cats: Hunting an Internet Killer’ (2019) and ‘Crime Scene: The Times Square Killer’ for more spine-chilling tales that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
1. Memories of a Murderer: The Nilsen Tapes (2021)
Chilling and haunting, Memories of a Murderer: The Nilsen Tapes takes viewers deep into the mind of a serial killer.
Dennis Nilsen’s chilling audiotapes reveal the horrifying truth behind his crimes. Through a series of audiotapes recorded from his jail cell, Nilsen narrates his life and merciless killings with an eerie calmness that will send shivers down your spine.
This gripping documentary delves into the twisted psyche of a murderer, exploring the motivations and methods behind his heinous acts.
As you watch Memories of a Murderer: The Nilsen Tapes, be prepared to be captivated by the unsettling details shared by Dennis Nilsen himself.
His cold, matter-of-fact accounts of luring young men to his home, strangling them to death, and then engaging in unspeakable acts with their corpses are enough to make your blood run cold.
The documentary combines these bone-chilling audio recordings with archival footage and interviews with investigators and survivors, giving you a comprehensive look at one of Britain’s most notorious serial killers.
Movie Information
- Genre: Crime, Documentary
- Original Language: English
- Director: Michael Harte
- Release Date (Streaming): Aug 18, 2021
- Runtime: 1h 25m
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2. Capturing the Killer Nurse
Prepare to be immersed in a gripping journey that uncovers the hidden depths of evil lurking within the healthcare system, as you witness the unsettling tale of Charlie Cullen, a trusted nurse turned silent reaper.
In ‘Capturing the Killer Nurse,’ director Tim Travers Hawkins delves into the disturbing story of one of history’s most prolific serial killers, Charlie Cullen.
Through chilling audio recordings from Cullen himself and emotional interviews with those closest to the case, including whistle-blower Amy Loughren and author Charles Graeber, this documentary sheds light on the shocking truth behind Cullen’s hidden spree of murders.
As you delve into this dark world, you’ll come face-to-face with the harrowing reality that even those we trust with our lives can harbor sinister intentions.
The film takes you through the investigation led by determined detectives who worked tirelessly to crack the case and bring justice to Cullen’s countless victims.
With each revelation, you’ll find yourself grappling with an even bigger danger still lurking within our healthcare system.
‘Capturing the Killer Nurse’ is a thought-provoking crime documentary that challenges our perception of safety in places we least expect it. It serves as a stark reminder that evil can hide behind familiar faces and urges us to question how well we truly know those entrusted with our care.
Movie Information
- Genre: Crime, Documentary
- Original Language: English
- Director: Tim Travers Hawkins
- Producer: Robin Ockleford
- Release Date (Streaming): Nov 11, 2022
- Runtime: 1h 34m
3. Myth of the Zodiac Killer
Immerse yourself in the perplexing enigma of the Zodiac Killer, as you embark on a mind-bending exploration into the possibility that this infamous murderer may have never existed at all.
For over 50 years, investigators have been tirelessly searching for the identity of the Zodiac Killer, but what if it was all just an elaborate hoax?
The idea seems unfathomable, considering the fear and terror that gripped Northern California in the late 1960s.
However, an unlikely theory has emerged: that the Zodiac Killer was nothing more than a figment of someone’s twisted imagination.
The killer’s taunting letters and cryptograms sent to regional newspapers added to his mystique and fueled public fascination. But could it all be an elaborate ruse?
Some experts now believe that there is no concrete evidence linking any individual to these crimes. They argue that perhaps someone created this persona as a means of gaining attention or sowing chaos in society.
This theory challenges everything we thought we knew about one of America’s most notorious serial killers.
As you delve deeper into this fascinating mystery, prepare to question your own perceptions and beliefs. What if our desire for closure and justice has led us down a path filled with red herrings and false leads?
As unsettling as it may be to entertain the notion that such evil may not have existed in physical form, exploring this possibility sheds new light on how easily myths can take hold in our collective consciousness.
Movie Information
- TV Network: Peacock
- Premiere Date: Jul 11, 2023
- Genre: Documentary
- Executive Producers: Brad Bernstein – David Karabinas – Andrew Nock – Anne Garofalo Paterno – Cynthia Childs – James Buddy Day
4. Don’t F**k With Cats: Hunting an Internet Killer (2019)
Get ready to dive into the twisted world of online sleuths as they embark on a risky manhunt in ‘Don’t F**k With Cats: Hunting an Internet Killer.’
This gripping documentary follows a group of amateur internet investigators who come together to track down a sadistic criminal responsible for posting gruesome videos online.
As these dedicated individuals delve deeper into the dark corners of the internet, they uncover a trail of disturbing evidence that leads them closer to their target.
The documentary takes you on a thrilling journey as these online detectives use their skills and knowledge to piece together clues, analyze videos, and collaborate with law enforcement agencies.
The relentless pursuit for justice becomes an obsession for them as they navigate through a labyrinthine underworld filled with deception and danger.
As you watch ‘Don’t F**k With Cats: Hunting an Internet Killer,’ be prepared for heart-pounding moments that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
This true crime series explores not only the mind of a twisted killer but also the power of collective action in fighting against evil lurking in the darkest corners of cyberspace.
Movie Information
- Starring: Deanna Thompson, John Green, Claudette Hamlin, Antonio Paradiso, Benjamin Xu
- TV Network: Netflix
- Premiere Date: Dec 18, 2019
- Genre: Crime
- Executive producers: Dimitri Doganis, Adam Hawkins
5. Crime Scene: The Times Square Killer
Explore the chilling depths of the human psyche as you uncover the haunting story behind the Times Square Killer.
This gripping true crime documentary takes you on a journey into the heart of darkness, delving into the mind of a serial killer who terrorized New York City in the 1970s.
As you watch Crime Scene: The Times Square Killer, prepare to be captivated by the shocking details and twisted motivations that drove this cold-blooded murderer.
Through expert interviews, archival footage, and meticulous reenactments, Crime Scene: The Times Square Killer paints a vivid portrait of a city gripped by fear.
You’ll witness how the killer meticulously chose his victims and evaded capture for years, leaving behind a trail of death and destruction.
As you immerse yourself in this bone-chilling tale, you can’t help but feel an unspoken gratitude for living in an era where technology has made it harder for such predators to roam freely.
Movie Information
- Genre: True Crime
- Original Language: English
- Director: Curtis Hanson
- Release Date (Streaming): Sep 1, 2016
- Runtime: 1h 40m
- Production Co: Fries Entertainment, Gross-Weston Productions
6. Bad Vegan: Fame. Fraud. Fugitives
Diving into the twisted world of Bad Vegan: Fame. Fraud. Fugitives on Netflix is like stepping into a whirlpool of scandal and deceit, where the truth unravels like a tangled ball of yarn.
As you watch this gripping documentary, you’ll find yourself engrossed in the shocking story of Sarma Melngailis, a vegan restaurateur whose life took an unexpected turn after marrying a mysterious man who promised to make her dog immortal.
From the very beginning, you’re drawn into Sarma’s glamorous life as she builds her successful vegan empire in New York City. But as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that there’s something darker lurking beneath the surface. The film delves deep into Sarma’s downfall, revealing how fame and fortune can quickly crumble when fueled by fraud and lies.
The documentary keeps you on the edge of your seat as it uncovers the secrets behind Sarma’s disappearance and subsequent fugitive status.
With each twist and turn, your subconscious desire for safety compels you to keep watching, hoping that justice will prevail in this real-life drama.
Movie Information
- Starring: Sarma Melngailis
- TV Network: Netflix
- Premiere Date: Mar 16, 2022
- Genre: Documentary
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7. The Raincoat Killer: Chasing a Predator in Korea
As you immerse yourself in the gripping world of The Raincoat Killer: Chasing a Predator in Korea, your heart races with anticipation as you join the relentless pursuit of a cunning predator through the rainy streets of Korea.
This thrilling documentary takes you on a rollercoaster ride as investigators tirelessly work to bring justice to the victims and their families.
With every twist and turn, you find yourself on the edge of your seat, unable to look away.
The Raincoat Killer: Chasing a Predator in Korea not only delves into the chilling crimes committed by this serial killer, but also explores the psychological aspects that drive someone to commit such heinous acts.
Through interviews with law enforcement officials, forensic experts, and even survivors, you gain insight into the mind of this predator and understand how his actions have affected countless lives.
As you watch this captivating documentary unfold, you can’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for those who dedicate their lives to protecting others from harm.
The Raincoat Killer: Chasing a Predator in Korea serves as a reminder that evil exists in the world, but it also highlights the unwavering determination of those who fight against it.
Movie Information
- Starring: Sarma Melngailis
- TV Network: Netflix
- Premiere Date: Mar 16, 2022
- Genre: Documentary
8. I’ll Be Gone in the Dark
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of ‘I’ll Be Gone in the Dark,’ where you’ll be drawn into the relentless pursuit of justice for the victims of a notorious predator.
This gripping documentary explores the chilling case of the Golden State Killer, who terrorized California in the 1970s and 1980s, committing heinous crimes including sexual assaults and murders.
As you delve deeper into this true crime story, you’ll witness author Michelle McNamara’s tireless quest to unmask this elusive killer and bring closure to his victims.
‘I’ll Be Gone in the Dark’ is a thought-provoking documentary that will keep you on the edge of your seat, as it uncovers shocking details about one man’s reign of terror.
With its expert storytelling and compelling narrative, this series not only sheds light on a dark chapter in American history but also serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance and determination in seeking justice.
Movie Information
- TV Network: HBO
- Premiere Date: Jun 28, 2020
- Genre: Documentary
9. The Women and the Murderer (2021)
Take a step into the world of ‘The Women and the Murderer‘ and be prepared to witness the tireless efforts of two remarkable women as they unravel the web of a notorious criminal.
This gripping documentary delves into the harrowing journey of a police chief and a victim’s mother who take it upon themselves to bring justice to their loved ones and put an end to the reign of terror caused by serial killer Guy Georges.
As you delve deeper into this true crime story, you will find yourself captivated by the determination and resilience displayed by these two women.
Their relentless pursuit for answers and justice is both inspiring and heart-wrenching, as they navigate through countless obstacles in their quest to catch a cold-blooded killer.
Through their unwavering dedication, they not only shed light on Guy Georges’ heinous crimes but also expose flaws within the system that allowed him to operate undetected for so long.
‘The Women and the Murderer’ masterfully combines elements of documentary, crime, and drama to create a captivating narrative that will keep you on the edge of your seat throughout its 1-hour and 32-minute runtime.
With Mona Achache and Patricia Tourancheau at the helm as directors, this French-language film offers an authentic portrayal of real events that unfolded in Paris during one of France’s most notorious serial killer cases.
Produced by Netflix, this documentary promises an immersive experience that sheds light on not just the crimes committed but also explores themes such as justice, resilience, and female empowerment.
Movie Information
- Genre: Documentary, Crime, Drama
- Original Language: French (France)
- Directors: Mona Achache, Patricia Tourancheau
- Release Date (Streaming): Sep 9, 2021
- Runtime: 1h 32m
- Production Co: Netflix
10. Body Count: The Green River Killer
Prepare yourself for a chilling exploration into the horrifying body count left in the wake of The Green River Killer, as you witness the detective consult with Ted Bundy to finally bring this elusive murderer to justice.
In this crime drama, directed by Andrew Jones, you’ll be taken on a suspenseful journey as the detective seeks guidance from one of history’s most infamous serial killers.
With an engaging mix of crime and drama, this film is sure to captivate your attention and keep you on the edge of your seat.
As you delve into ‘Body Count: The Green River Killer,’ you’ll be introduced to a riveting storyline that follows the efforts of a determined detective who enlists the help of Ted Bundy himself.
Throughout the film’s 1 hour and 25-minute runtime, you’ll witness their intense conversations and strategic planning as they work together to catch The Green River Killer.
With its focus on real-life events surrounding one of America’s most notorious serial killers, this documentary-style movie will leave you questioning how such evil can exist in our world.
Movie Information
- Genre: Crime, Drama
- Original Language: English
- Director: Andrew Jones
- Producers: Rebecca Graham, Andrew Jones, Harry Willis, Tom Willis
- Writer: Andrew Jones
- Release Date (Streaming): May 7, 2019
- Runtime: 1h 25m
- Production Co: North Bank Entertainment
Engrossing and thought-provoking, ‘Body Count: The Green River Killer’ offers an unsettling but captivating look into the mindsets of both a detective and a killer.
Through its expert storytelling and gripping performances, this film provides an immersive experience that will satisfy any true crime enthusiast craving an enthralling watch.
So grab your popcorn and get ready for a bone-chilling ride through the dark depths of human nature.
11. Sins of the Father: The Green River Killer
As you stumble upon the haunting tale of ‘Sins of the Father: The Green River Killer,’ you can’t help but shudder at the chilling connection between the detective’s own dark past and the twisted path of this notorious murderer.
The documentary delves deep into the investigation of one of America’s most prolific serial killers, exploring not only his heinous crimes but also the impact it had on those involved in bringing him to justice.
As you watch, you become captivated by how this case reveals the darkest corners of human nature and raises unsettling questions about inherited violence.
The detective leading the investigation is haunted by his own troubled upbringing, which bears eerie similarities to the killer’s background.
Through interviews and archival footage, ‘Sins of the Father’ uncovers a web of secrets, trauma, and intergenerational patterns that shaped both men’s lives. It forces you to confront uncomfortable truths about how our past can influence our present actions.
In ‘Sins of the Father: The Green River Killer,’ you’ll find yourself on a gripping journey through darkness as you uncover shocking revelations about a serial killer’s crimes and witness firsthand how personal demons can intertwine with evil deeds.
This documentary will leave you on edge, constantly questioning what lies beneath seemingly ordinary facades.
Movie Information
- Genre: True Crime Documentary
- Original Language: English
- Director: Vanessa M.H. Powers
- Producer: Abigail Rose
- Writer: Tristan Corrigan
- Production Co: Oxford Comma Film Cooperative, Under Score Productions
12. The Sons of Sam: A Descent into Darkness (2021)
Plunging into the twisted investigation of ‘The Sons of Sam: A Descent into Darkness,’ viewers are confronted with a chilling realization that the evil behind these infamous murders extends far beyond what was initially believed.
As author Maury Terry delves deeper into the case, it becomes clear that there is a web of darkness behind the Son of Sam killings, and he becomes determined to prove that serial killer David Berkowitz didn’t act alone.
Terry’s relentless pursuit of the truth takes him down a dangerous path, where he uncovers shocking evidence and encounters individuals who may be connected to the crimes.
‘The Sons of Sam: A Descent into Darkness’ is a gripping documentary that captivates audiences from start to finish.
It explores not only the crimes themselves, but also the psychological aspects behind them, leaving viewers on edge as they question their own sense of safety.
With Paul Giamatti bringing Terry’s story to life, his performance adds an extra layer of intensity and intrigue. This documentary is a must-watch for true crime enthusiasts, offering a deep dive into one of America’s most notorious serial killer cases.
Movie Information
- TV Network: Netflix
- Premiere Date: May 5, 2021
- Genre: Documentary
- Executive Producers: Joshua Zeman, Sara Enright, Zara Duffy, David Sirulnick, Jon Kamen, Josh Braun, Dan Braun
So grab your popcorn and prepare yourself for an unsettling journey as you uncover the secrets lurking in ‘The Sons of Sam.’ Just remember to lock your doors at night because this documentary will make you question if evil truly walks among us.
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13. John Wayne Gacy: Devil In Disguise
Get ready to delve into the chilling mind of John Wayne Gacy as he weaves a web of darkness and deception that will send shivers down your spine. In ‘John Wayne Gacy: Devil In Disguise,’ you’ll be taken on a bone-chilling journey through the words of one of the most notorious serial killers in history.
This documentary, available on Peacock, offers a unique perspective as it allows Gacy himself to tell his story.
As you watch ‘John Wayne Gacy: Devil In Disguise,’ you’ll be captivated by the disturbing details shared by this infamous killer. With each word spoken by Gacy, it becomes clear that evil can lurk behind even the friendliest facades.
The documentary delves deep into Gacy’s life, exploring his childhood, his crimes, and the shocking discovery of dozens of bodies buried beneath his house.
With its gripping storytelling and haunting imagery, ‘John Wayne Gacy: Devil In Disguise’ will keep you on edge throughout every episode. It serves as a stark reminder that monsters can live among us unnoticed, highlighting the importance of staying vigilant and trusting our instincts.
Movie Information
- TV Network: Peacock
- Premiere Date: March 25, 2021
- Genre: Documentary
- Director: Rod Blackhurst
- Production Companies: NBC News Studios, Universal Content Productions
14. The Ripper (2020)
Prepare to be gripped by the harrowing tale of The Ripper, as you witness the chilling reality of a community living in fear and the relentless pursuit for justice.
Set in England during the late 1970s, this four-part series takes you back to a time of radical change, de-industrialization, poverty, masculinity, and misogyny.
It was against this backdrop that the Yorkshire Ripper murders unfolded, leaving women in the North of England terrified and every man under suspicion.
The Ripper recounts the shocking events that occurred between 1975 and 1980 when 13 women lost their lives at the hands of an elusive killer.
This Netflix documentary delves deep into the largest police manhunt in British history, shedding light on why it took so long for authorities to catch him.
As you watch each episode, you’ll gain insight into a society grappling with its own demons – a society where fear permeated every corner and safety seemed like an unattainable dream.
If you’re seeking a binge-worthy true crime series that will keep you on edge from start to finish, The Ripper is not one to miss.
Movie Information
- TV Network: Netflix
- Premiere Date: December 16, 2020
- Genre: Documentary
So grab your popcorn and settle in for an intense journey through one of Britain’s darkest periods as The Ripper uncovers the chilling truth behind these heinous crimes.
15. Bind. Torture. Kill: BTK
Unraveling the horrifying tale of Dennis L. Rader, Bind. Torture. Kill: BTK delves into the depths of human darkness and forces us to confront the chilling reality that evil can lurk in even the most ordinary of individuals.
This gripping documentary takes you on a haunting journey through Rader’s life as he transformed from a seemingly normal family man into one of America’s most notorious serial killers.
Through interviews with investigators, survivors, and experts, Bind. Torture. Kill: BTK meticulously pieces together Rader’s crimes, providing an unsettling look into his sadistic mind and methods.Â
The film explores how he meticulously planned each murder, stalking his victims before ultimately binding them, torturing them both physically and psychologically, and ultimately killing them.
As you watch this bone-chilling documentary, you’ll feel a sense of unease knowing that such horrors could happen to anyone at any time.
It serves as a stark reminder that evil can exist within those we least suspect and highlights the importance of remaining vigilant against potential threats.
Movie Information
- Rating: R (Strong Violence|Disturbing Content)
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Horror, Mystery & thriller
- Original Language: English
- Director: Michael Feifer
- Producer: Michael Feifer
- Writer: Michael Feifer
- Release Date (Streaming): Mar 17, 2017
- Runtime: 1h 30m
- Production Co.: North American Entertainment
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, the 15 best serial killer documentaries on Netflix that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
From notorious killers like Ted Bundy and Jeffrey Dahmer to unsolved mysteries that will leave you questioning everything, these documentaries offer a chilling glimpse into the minds of some of history’s most infamous criminals.
Whether you’re a true crime enthusiast or just looking for something gripping to watch, these binge-worthy series are sure to satisfy your cravings for suspense and intrigue.
One interesting statistic that may grab your attention is that according to a study conducted by researchers at Penn State University, approximately 1 in every 25 people is believed to have psychopathic tendencies.
This means that there could be several potential killers living among us, hiding in plain sight. The fact that these individuals can blend in so seamlessly with society is both fascinating and terrifying, making it all the more captivating to delve into their twisted minds through these documentaries.
So grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and prepare yourself for a thrilling journey into the dark world of serial killers.
But remember, while watching these documentaries can be utterly captivating, it’s important not to lose sight of the real-life victims who suffered at the hands of these monsters.
