Top 20 True Crime Documentaries on Netflix: Dive Deep into the Shadows

Top 20 True Crime Documentaries on Netflix – True crime documentaries have become a captivating genre, offering a glimpse into the darkest corners of human behavior. Netflix, a streaming giant, boasts a vast library of these documentaries, catering to viewers with diverse interests. Whether you’re fascinated by psychological thrillers, historical mysteries, or in-depth investigations, there’s a documentary waiting to enthrall you. 

This curated list explores the Top 20 True Crime Documentaries on Netflix, encompassing a range of subgenres, captivating cases, and thought-provoking narratives. 

Top 20 True Crime Documentaries on Netflix

1. The Staircase (2004 – Ongoing):

This captivating docuseries delves into the mysterious death of Kathleen Peterson, a novelist found dead at the bottom of a staircase in her home. Her husband, Michael Peterson, becomes the prime suspect, leading to a complex legal battle documented over multiple seasons. “The Staircase” raises questions about privilege, the justice system, and the lingering shadows of doubt. 

2. Making a Murderer (2015 – Present):

“Making a Murderer” ignited a global conversation about the American justice system. The series explores the case of Steven Avery, a man twice convicted of murder in Wisconsin, raising questions about prosecutorial misconduct and the possibility of wrongful conviction. With new developments unfolding in later seasons, “Making a Murderer” remains a must-watch for true crime enthusiasts. 

3. The Keepers (2017):

This chilling documentary investigates the unsolved murder of Sister Cathy Cesnik, a Baltimore nun and high school teacher. As the investigation unfolds, a web of secrets involving child sexual abuse within the Catholic Church is uncovered. “The Keepers” is a disturbing yet compelling exploration of power, abuse, and the fight for justice. 

4. American Murder: The Family Next Door (2020):

This docuseries takes a chilling look at the Watts family murders in Colorado. Using home videos, text messages, and police interviews, the series paints a disturbing portrait of seemingly perfect Chris Watts and his descent into violence. “American Murder: The Family Next Door” is a haunting exploration of domestic violence and the facade of normalcy. 

5. Unsolved Mysteries (2020 – Present):

A reboot of the iconic television series, “Unsolved Mysteries” presents viewers with chilling cold cases that continue to baffle investigators. Each episode focuses on a different case, from disappearances and murders to unexplained phenomena. With its signature dramatic narration and audience participation element, “Unsolved Mysteries” invites viewers to become armchair detectives. 

Beyond the Headlines: Exploring Untold Stories 

The following documentaries delve into lesser-known cases, offering fresh perspectives and thought-provoking narratives: 

• 6. The Disappearance of Madeleine McCann (2019):

This series revisits the heartbreaking disappearance of Madeleine McCann, a young British girl who vanished while on vacation in Portugal. 

• 7. Night Stalker: The Hunt for a Serial Killer (2021):

This gripping docuseries chronicles the terrifying reign of the “Night Stalker” who terrorized Los Angeles in the 1980s. 

• 8. Killer Inside: The Mind of Aaron Hernandez (2020):

This series explores the tragic downfall of NFL star Aaron Hernandez, who was convicted of murder. Through interviews and psychological analysis, “Killer Inside” delves into the complexities of human behavior. 

• 9. The Sons of Sam: A Descent into Madness (2021):

This series reexamines the notorious case of David Berkowitz, the “Son of Sam” serial killer who terrorized New York City in the 1970s. 

• 10. The Trials of Gabriel Fernandez (2020):

This heartbreaking docuseries investigates the tragic case of Gabriel Fernandez, an 8-year-old boy tortured and killed by his own family. “The Trials of Gabriel Fernandez” shines a light on the failures of the child protection system. 

International Investigations: Crimes that Transcend Borders 

• 11. The Confession Tapes (2017):

This series examines a disturbing trend of coerced confessions that have led to wrongful convictions. 

• 12. Murder Among the Mormons (2021):

This series delves into a shocking real-estate fraud scheme that spiraled into a deadly bombing in Salt Lake City. 

• 13. The Imposter (2012):

This mind-bending documentary tells the unbelievable story of a French man who convinced a family he was their long-lost son. 

• 14. Amanda Knox (2016):

This series revisits the controversial case of Amanda Knox, an American college student accused of murder while studying abroad in Italy. “Amanda Knox” explores the complexities of international legal systems and media scrutiny. 

Crimes of the Powerful: Exposing Corruption and Abuse 

• 15. Icarus (2017):

This Oscar-winning documentary takes an unexpected turn, uncovering a vast international doping scandal within the world of sports. 

• 16. Dirty Money (2018 – Present):

This investigative series exposes various financial crimes and corporate corruption, highlighting the human cost of greed and deceit. 

• 17. Wild Wild Country (2018):

This series delves into the bizarre story of the Rajneesh movement, a controversial religious group that established a utopian commune in Oregon. “Wild Wild Country” explores the clash between religious freedom and societal norms. 

Psychological Intrigue: Decoding the Criminal Mind 

• 18. The Ted Bundy Tapes (2019):

This series uses archival footage and interviews to explore the life and crimes of notorious serial killer Ted Bundy. “The Ted Bundy Tapes” offers a chilling look into the psyche of a monster. 

• 19. Don’t F**k With Cats: Hunting an Internet Killer (2019):**

This gripping series follows a group of online sleuths who become entangled in the hunt for a sadistic animal abuser, ultimately leading to the discovery of a human killer. 

Unconventional Formats: Pushing the Boundaries of Storytelling 

• 20. The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst (2015):

This series weaves a complex narrative around Robert Durst, a real estate scion suspected of multiple murders. “The Jinx” utilizes a unique blend of interviews, archival footage, and a shocking revelation in the final episode. 

These 20 documentaries represent just a fraction of the captivating true crime content available on Netflix. With diverse narratives, international investigations, and in-depth explorations of the human psyche, there’s a documentary waiting to enthrall every true crime enthusiast. So, grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and prepare to delve into the shadows of the criminal underworld.