True crime documentaries have captivated audiences with their compelling narratives and in-depth explorations of some of the most intriguing criminal cases. From the tragic disappearance of Gabby Petito to the chilling Manson Family murders, these films unravel complex stories, exposing systemic failures, societal issues, and the human cost of violence. With a mix of riveting storytelling, meticulous research, and thought-provoking perspectives, they continue to shine a light on the darker corners of society. As we dive into the top 25 murder documentaries of 2025, you’ll find a collection of must-watch films that offer both insight and a gripping viewing experience.

American Murder: Gabby Petito

This Netflix docuseries meticulously explores the tragic disappearance and murder of Gabby Petito, a 22-year-old travel vlogger whose cross-country adventure ended in heartbreak. Using a compelling blend of social media content, police footage, and personal interviews, the series reconstructs Gabby’s journey with her fiancé, Brian Laundrie, highlighting the disturbing signs of their troubled relationship. The documentary examines critical missteps in police interactions, particularly around domestic violence protocols, that potentially contributed to the tragedy. As investigators zero in on Laundrie as a prime suspect, his sudden disappearance deepens the mystery, leading to an intense nationwide search. The series ultimately sheds light on broader societal issues, such as intimate partner violence and the deceptive nature of social media narratives.
Excerpt: “It explores the grim reality behind the curated life portrayed on Instagram, showing how digital storytelling often masks disturbing truths.” – The Guardian
Platform: Netflix

Gone Girls: The Long Island Serial Killer

“Gone Girls” revisits one of America’s most chilling unsolved serial murder cases, delving into the complex narrative surrounding the Long Island Serial Killer. It vividly illustrates the discovery of multiple victims along Gilgo Beach and explores the lives and struggles of these women who were largely ignored by law enforcement and media due to their occupation as sex workers. Directed by award-winning filmmaker Liz Garbus, the series confronts deep-rooted corruption and negligence within the Suffolk County Police Department that prolonged justice for more than a decade. The docuseries gains urgency by integrating recently uncovered evidence and highlighting suspect Rex Heuermann’s alleged connection to the killings. Emphasizing empathy for the victims and their families, it critically assesses how prejudice and systemic failures allow serial killers to remain undetected.
Excerpt: “Liz Garbus delivers a gut-punching expose of systemic failures, as haunting as it is necessary.” – Decider
Platform: Netflix

CHAOS: The Manson Murders

Directed by acclaimed documentarian Errol Morris, “CHAOS” offers a provocative re-examination of the notorious 1969 Manson Family murders, famously known for their brutality and apparent randomness. Morris challenges the established narrative, suggesting a complex conspiracy involving CIA mind-control experiments, LSD, and clandestine government operations. The series dives deep into newly revealed evidence and controversial theories, including possible connections between Charles Manson, the intelligence community, and the turbulent cultural climate of the late 1960s. Interviews with former members of law enforcement, researchers, and historians illuminate previously ignored aspects of the case, prompting viewers to reconsider long-held assumptions. The series is both a meticulous historical investigation and a gripping exploration of paranoia and governmental secrecy in one of America’s most infamous crimes.
Excerpt: “Morris reshapes the familiar into a gripping question mark—just when you thought you’d heard it all, he flips the script.” – Variety
Platform: Hulu

The Perfect Neighbor

In “The Perfect Neighbor,” filmmaker Geeta Gandbhir investigates a deeply troubling case from Ocala, Florida, involving the shooting death of a Black woman by her white neighbor. Primarily constructed from stark police bodycam footage and tense interrogation videos, the documentary dissects Florida’s controversial “Stand Your Ground” law, revealing its troubling implications in a racially charged context. The film meticulously details the events leading up to the confrontation, including escalating tensions and systemic racism within the local community. Through raw and unfiltered footage, viewers witness the stark disparity between the perpetrator’s justifications and the harsh reality of the victim’s final moments. The documentary not only explores the specifics of the case but also acts as a poignant commentary on race relations, gun culture, and judicial inequalities in modern America.
Excerpt: “This is a raw, searing portrayal of a community’s deep fractures—and the legal frameworks that enable tragedy.” – The Hollywood Reporter
Platform: HBO Max

The Breakthrough

Set in Linköping, Sweden, “The Breakthrough” is a compelling dramatization based on the real-life investigation of a double murder that baffled Swedish police for over 16 years. It meticulously portrays the relentless pursuit of justice by detectives whose innovative use of genealogy and DNA tracing eventually solved one of Sweden’s most perplexing cold cases. The mini-series highlights the emotional toll the prolonged investigation had on the victims’ families and the detectives involved, capturing the tension and desperation of years spent chasing dead ends. Richly atmospheric and intricately plotted, the narrative weaves between past and present, examining the broader societal implications of privacy concerns related to genetic databases. Ultimately, “The Breakthrough” is both a tribute to forensic ingenuity and a reflection on the complexities of modern crime-solving.
Excerpt: “A forensic drama so intricately crafted it feels more like a tense thriller than a procedural.” – The Guardian
Platform: Netflix

The Åre Murders

“The Åre Murders” immerses viewers in the snowy, picturesque Swedish ski resort town of Åre, where a chilling murder case disrupts the tranquility of this idyllic setting. Stockholm detective Hanna Ahlander, seeking solitude after professional setbacks, unexpectedly becomes involved in investigating the mysterious disappearance of a young girl. As Ahlander delves deeper, hidden community secrets and simmering local tensions begin to surface, complicating her investigation and placing her in danger. Rich character development, coupled with striking cinematography capturing the stark beauty and isolation of the mountainous landscape, adds depth and nuance to the narrative. The series masterfully balances the pacing and suspense typical of Nordic noir, offering not just a gripping crime story, but also a profound exploration of personal redemption, trauma, and resilience.
Excerpt: “An atmospheric thriller that grips you not just with the crime, but with the deeply human stories it unearths.” – Decider
Platform: Hulu

I Am a Killer (Season 6)

The sixth season of I Am a Killer continues its deep dive into the lives and minds of death row inmates, each sharing their accounts of the crimes that led them to prison. This season maintains the show’s hallmark style of unfiltered storytelling, presenting the human side of individuals who have committed unthinkable acts. Each episode traces the path that brought these offenders to their ultimate sentences, exploring their backgrounds, the events that shaped their choices, and their reflections on what they’ve done. The show’s careful balance of brutal honesty and poignant introspection challenges viewers to consider the gray areas of morality and justice. As the series progresses, it offers a closer look at how the justice system handles the most severe penalties and the ongoing impact these crimes have on victims’ families. Through these personal testimonies, I Am a Killer seeks to illuminate not just the acts of violence, but the intricate stories behind them.

“The series maintains its house style with a rigidity that’s admirable.” – Decider
Platform: Netflix

Lockerbie: A Search for Truth

This five-part series dramatizes the aftermath of the infamous bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland, which claimed 270 lives. At the center of the story is Dr. Jim Swire, who lost his daughter in the attack and subsequently devoted his life to uncovering what really happened. The series goes beyond the tragedy itself, delving into the murky world of international politics, intelligence agencies, and the judicial system. It raises questions about the reliability of evidence used to convict Libyan national Abdelbaset al-Megrahi and whether justice was truly served. Through meticulous research and poignant dramatizations, the series highlights the enduring pain of the victims’ families while examining the broader implications of the case on international law and counterterrorism practices. Lockerbie: A Search for Truth not only seeks answers, but also challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about accountability and justice in the face of global tragedy.

“Carried by a raw, heartbreaking lead performance by Colin Firth, it’s consistently watchable, but lacking the necessary focus to be truly exceptional.” – Rotten Tomatoes
Platform: Sky Atlantic, NOW TV

Sons of Ecstasy

Set in the 1990s, Sons of Ecstasy charts the dangerous rivalry between two drug kingpins operating in Arizona’s burgeoning ecstasy market. English stockbroker Shaun Attwood and Gerard Gravano, the son of notorious mobster Sammy “The Bull” Gravano, compete for dominance in a trade fueled by greed, ambition, and the allure of fast money. The documentary sheds light on the rise of ecstasy’s popularity, the intricate networks that emerged around its distribution, and the escalating violence as the two men’s operations collided. Through interviews with those involved and gripping archival footage, Sons of Ecstasy reveals the devastating consequences of the drug trade on both the criminals and the communities they infiltrated. The story also delves into the personal toll these ventures took on the lives of their families, showing how the pursuit of power and wealth can destroy the very foundations one aims to protect. This tale of crime and retribution ultimately offers a window into the larger forces that shaped America’s war on drugs in the 1990s.

“This is mostly a potted family history, complete with lurid imagery and a lack of moral judgment.” – Rotten Tomatoes
Platform: Max

An Update on Our Family

This compelling three-part documentary explores the growing phenomenon of family vloggers, using the controversial story of the Stauffer family as a lens to examine the ethical dilemmas of sharing private lives online. The Stauffers, once celebrated for their engaging family-centered content, faced immense public backlash after making the unprecedented decision to “rehome” their adopted son, Huxley, citing difficulties in managing his care. The series delves into how their story highlights the commodification of personal lives and the blurred boundaries between parenthood, privacy, and profit. Through interviews with social media experts, ethical discussions about child exploitation, and a close analysis of the family’s rise and fall from public favor, An Update on Our Family invites viewers to consider the true cost of turning family life into entertainment. The documentary also raises critical questions about consent, accountability, and the long-term impact on children who grow up in the spotlight of digital fame.

“Rachel Mason’s three-part documentary about parents who put their lives online to make big money asks questions about entitlement, child safety, relationships with followers and more.” – The Guardian
Platform: HBO Max

Tell Them You Love Me

This provocative documentary investigates the complex, controversial relationship between Anna Stubblefield, a white academic, and Derrick Johnson, a non-verbal Black man with cerebral palsy. What initially appeared to be a breakthrough in communication for Johnson quickly spiraled into a legal and ethical nightmare when Stubblefield claimed a romantic and physical relationship with him. The film examines the broader implications of power dynamics, consent, and societal biases about race and disability. Using interviews, court footage, and expert commentary, it reveals the layers of prejudice, assumptions, and ethical gray areas that complicated the case. At its core, Tell Them You Love Me is not just a crime documentary, but a challenging exploration of how societal norms and systemic inequities shape our perceptions of consent, autonomy, and justice. It also raises uncomfortable questions about who gets to define an individual’s capacity to love and be loved.

“Sensitive documentary about a white female academic’s sexual abuse of a non-verbal Black man lays bare society’s prejudices.” – The Guardian
Platform: Netflix

Perfect Wife: The Mysterious Disappearance of Sherri Papini

In this gripping docuseries, viewers are taken behind the headlines of one of the most bizarre missing person cases in recent history. Sherri Papini’s 2016 disappearance and subsequent return seemed, at first, to be a harrowing tale of survival. But as investigators dug deeper, they uncovered a tangled web of deceit, revealing that Papini’s supposed abduction was entirely fabricated. The series examines how this deception unraveled, delving into the emotional and social impact on Papini’s family, community, and law enforcement. It also explores the larger repercussions of false abduction claims, including how they can divert resources from real cases and erode public trust. Perfect Wife offers a detailed account of how one woman’s lies created a media sensation and left lasting scars on everyone involved.

“A 3-part docuseries that examines Papini’s disappearance in November of 2016, and the revelations that came out when she reappeared on Thanksgiving Day.” – Decider
Platform: Hulu

Wicked Game: The Devil in the Desert

Wicked Game: The Devil in the Desert is a gripping three-part docuseries that delves into the harrowing 2012 kidnapping of a California man who was brutally tortured and left for dead in the Mojave Desert. The series follows Newport Beach Deputy District Attorney Matt Murphy and Detective Ryan Peters as they unravel the complex case, which leads them to Hossein Nayeri, a man with a history of criminal behavior and a penchant for evading capture. As the investigation unfolds, viewers are taken through a labyrinth of deceit, obsession, and a daring escape that spans multiple countries. The docuseries not only highlights the meticulous work of law enforcement but also sheds light on the psychological manipulation employed by Nayeri. Through interviews, reenactments, and real footage, the series paints a chilling portrait of a criminal mastermind and the system’s efforts to bring him to justice.

“Wicked Game: Devil In The Desert is just a repackaged 20/20 episode that originally aired in March 2020, with expanded and updated commentary from law enforcement officials and attorneys.” – Rotten Tomatoes
Platform: Hulu

The Fox Hollow Murders: Playground of a Serial Killer

This four-part docuseries revisits the chilling case of Herb Baumeister, a businessman from Indiana who led a double life as a serial killer in the 1990s. The series centers on Hamilton County Coroner Jeff Jellison’s renewed efforts to identify the remains found on Baumeister’s property, Fox Hollow Farm, using advanced DNA technology. As the investigation progresses, the docuseries delves into the lives of the victims, many of whom were gay men, and examines the societal and systemic failures that allowed Baumeister’s crimes to go undetected for years. Through interviews, archival footage, and expert analysis, the series provides a comprehensive look at the case, emphasizing the importance of giving a voice to the victims.

“We liked The Fox Hollow Murders: Playground Of A Serial Killer because it’s not a standard ‘search for a serial killer’ docuseries. It concentrates more on the killer’s victims, which is always preferable than glorifying the killers themselves.” – Decider
Platform: Hulu

Poisoned: The Dirty Truth About Your Food

Poisoned is a compelling documentary that exposes the alarming realities of food safety in the United States. The film investigates the systemic issues within the food industry, highlighting how regulatory failures and corporate negligence have led to numerous foodborne illness outbreaks. Through interviews with victims, experts, and whistleblowers, the documentary paints a disturbing picture of a system that often prioritizes profit over public health. The narrative is anchored by the 1993 E. coli outbreak linked to Jack in the Box, which serves as a case study for the broader issues plaguing food safety. The documentary calls for urgent reforms and increased accountability to prevent future tragedies.

“The film delivers a shocking exposé that will resonate with consumers, the food industry, regulators, politicians and all those concerned about food safety.” – Food Safety News
Platform: Netflix

The Hunt for Peter Tobin

This two-part BBC documentary delves into the crimes of Peter Tobin, one of Scotland’s most notorious serial killers. The series examines the disappearances of teenagers Vicky Hamilton and Dinah McNicol in 1991 and how their cases remained unsolved for over a decade. The breakthrough came with the 2006 murder of Angelika Kluk, which led investigators to uncover Tobin’s connection to the earlier cases. Through interviews with detectives, forensic experts, and the victims’ families, the documentary provides an in-depth look at the investigation and the systemic failures that allowed Tobin to evade capture for so long.

Platform: BBC Scotland (Availability may vary by region)

American Manhunt: O.J. Simpson

This four-part Netflix docuseries revisits the infamous 1994 murders of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman, and the subsequent trial of O.J. Simpson. Directed by Floyd Russ, the series offers a fresh perspective on the case, incorporating new interviews and previously unseen footage. It delves into the media frenzy, racial tensions, and legal strategies that made the trial a defining moment in American history. The documentary also examines the lasting impact of the case on the justice system and public perception.

“American Manhunt: O.J. Simpson,” a four-part Netflix docuseries directed by Floyd Russ, revisits the infamous 1994 murders of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman, along with the high-profile trial of O.J. Simpson. – The Guardian
Platform: Netflix

American Nightmare

American Nightmare is a three-part docuseries that explores the harrowing 2015 home invasion and kidnapping of Denise Huskins in Vallejo, California. Initially dismissed by law enforcement as a hoax reminiscent of the film “Gone Girl,” the case took a dramatic turn when evidence emerged supporting Huskins’ account. The series delves into the investigation, media coverage, and the personal toll on Huskins and her partner, Aaron Quinn. Through interviews and archival footage, the documentary highlights the dangers of confirmation bias and the importance of thorough investigative work.

“It’s a fascinating story of law enforcement and confirmation bias, one that needs to be on a platform like Netflix.” – Decider
Platform: Netflix

Lover, Stalker, Killer

This documentary recounts the true story of Dave Kroupa, a mechanic from Nebraska who becomes entangled in a deadly love triangle after meeting a woman through online dating. What begins as a casual relationship quickly escalates into a nightmare involving stalking, impersonation, and murder. The film delves into the psychological manipulation and digital deception that ensnared Kroupa, leading to a complex investigation by law enforcement. Through interviews, reenactments, and expert analysis, the documentary explores the dark side of online dating and the devastating consequences of obsession.

“Lover, Stalker, Killer” is a new documentary focusing on an online dating nightmare in Omaha, Nebraska. – Vanity Fair
Platform: Netflix

Sins of Our Mother

This three-part Netflix docuseries delves into the disturbing case of Lori Vallow, a once-devoted mother whose descent into extremist religious beliefs led to the disappearance and deaths of her two youngest children. The series traces Vallow’s transformation from a seemingly loving parent to a figure entangled in apocalyptic ideologies alongside her fifth husband, Chad Daybell. As the investigation unfolds, viewers are confronted with a web of suspicious deaths, including those of Vallow’s previous spouses and Daybell’s former wife. Through interviews with family members, law enforcement, and journalists, the documentary paints a chilling portrait of how fanaticism can distort reality and lead to tragic outcomes. The narrative is both harrowing and compelling, shedding light on the psychological manipulation and delusions that fueled the case. Ultimately, Sins of Our Mother serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked belief systems and the devastating impact they can have on families.​

“Sins of Our Mother is about as Netflix True Crime as it gets. It is bombastic, tells a grimly fascinating, awful story, is expertly structured and full of twists and turns.” – The Guardian
Platform: Netflix​

The Staircase

Originally released in 2004 and later expanded by Netflix, The Staircase is a comprehensive docuseries chronicling the trial of novelist Michael Peterson, accused of murdering his wife, Kathleen, who was found dead at the bottom of their staircase. The series offers an in-depth look at the legal proceedings, highlighting the complexities of the case, including forensic controversies and the revelation of Peterson’s bisexuality. Director Jean-Xavier de Lestrade provides unprecedented access to the defense team, capturing the emotional toll on Peterson’s family and the intricacies of the justice system. The documentary also explores alternative theories, such as the possibility of an owl attack, adding layers of intrigue. Through meticulous storytelling, The Staircase examines the ambiguity of truth and the challenges of achieving justice. It’s a seminal work in true crime, prompting viewers to question the narratives presented in courtrooms and media.​

“The Staircase remains a sensational, game-changing series.” – The Guardian
Platform: Netflix​

Making a Murderer

Filmed over 13 years, Making a Murderer is a groundbreaking docuseries that follows the story of Steven Avery, a Wisconsin man exonerated after 18 years in prison for a crime he didn’t commit, only to be accused of a new crime shortly after his release. The series delves into the intricacies of Avery’s legal battles, raising questions about the integrity of law enforcement and the justice system. It also examines the case of Brendan Dassey, Avery’s nephew, whose confession is scrutinized for potential coercion. Through interviews, courtroom footage, and investigative journalism, the documentary presents a compelling narrative that challenges viewers to consider the possibility of systemic failures. While lauded for its storytelling, the series has faced criticism for potential bias and omission of certain evidence. Nonetheless, Making a Murderer has had a profound impact on public discourse regarding criminal justice reform.​

“Making a Murderer is a spellbinding slow burn that effectively utilizes the documentary format to tell a twisty mystery.” – Rotten Tomatoes
Platform: Netflix​

Amanda Knox

This documentary provides an intimate look into the life of Amanda Knox, the American student who was twice convicted and later acquitted of the 2007 murder of her roommate, Meredith Kercher, in Italy. Through interviews with Knox, prosecutors, journalists, and others involved, the film explores the media frenzy and cultural biases that influenced public perception and the legal process. It delves into the psychological toll of the ordeal on Knox and her family, highlighting issues of wrongful conviction and the presumption of guilt. The documentary also critiques the sensationalism of tabloid journalism and its impact on justice. By presenting multiple perspectives, it challenges viewers to question their assumptions about guilt, innocence, and the power of narrative. Ultimately, Amanda Knox is a thought-provoking examination of a case that captivated the world.​

“Amanda Knox tells horrifying stories of her treatment by the Italian police, including being slapped in the head by them and told she had HIV.” – Roger Ebert
Platform: Netflix​

Tiger King

Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem, and Madness is a sensational docuseries that delves into the eccentric world of big cat enthusiasts, focusing on Joe Exotic, a flamboyant zoo owner entangled in a murder-for-hire plot against animal rights activist Carole Baskin. The series exposes the rivalries, legal battles, and personal vendettas that define this subculture, revealing a landscape rife with exploitation and criminal activity. It also touches on issues of animal welfare, polygamy, and the cult of personality. Through interviews and archival footage, the documentary paints a chaotic portrait of ambition and obsession. The series became a cultural phenomenon, sparking debates and spawning spin-offs. While criticized for its sensationalism, Tiger King offers a compelling glimpse into a bizarre and dangerous world.​

“Tiger King is Netflix comfort food of the highest order: it immerses viewers in a mind-boggling lifestyle and series of scandals.” – Roger Ebert
Platform: Netflix​

Our Father

This chilling documentary uncovers the shocking actions of Dr. Donald Cline, a fertility specialist who used his own sperm to inseminate numerous patients without their consent, resulting in at least 94 biological children. The story unfolds through the experiences of Jacoba Ballard and her half-siblings, who discover their connection through at-home DNA tests. The film explores the emotional and psychological impact on the victims and their families, as well as the legal and ethical ramifications of Cline’s actions. Combining deeply personal accounts with investigative reporting, the documentary highlights how long-overlooked breaches of trust can lead to enduring harm, sparking calls for greater accountability in reproductive medicine.

Excerpt: “This case isn’t just a medical scandal; it’s a gut-wrenching exploration of betrayal, identity, and the urgent need for reform in the fertility industry.” – Decider

Platform: Netflix

These documentaries not only shed light on high-profile cases but also serve as a mirror to society’s challenges in achieving justice and accountability. By recounting these harrowing stories, filmmakers inspire necessary conversations about reform, empathy for victims, and the lingering impacts of these crimes on communities. As the popularity of true crime continues to grow, these films remind us of the importance of truth, critical thinking, and the ongoing pursuit of justice.