If you were captivated by the chilling true-crime drama 'Happy Face Killer' (2014), you're likely craving more gripping stories of serial killers, psychological thrillers, and crime investigations. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that deliver the same suspense, dark storytelling, and intense character studies. Whether you're fascinated by criminal psychology or love a good mystery, these recommendations will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Boston Strangler (1968)
Description: A classic crime film that examines the media frenzy and public fear surrounding a series of brutal murders, offering a gritty portrayal of the investigation and its psychological impact.
Fact: The movie was one of the first to use split-screen techniques to heighten tension and show parallel events.


Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer (1986)
Description: A raw and disturbing character study of a remorseless killer, presented with a documentary-like realism that amplifies the horror of his actions.
Fact: The film was based on the confessions of real-life serial killer Henry Lee Lucas, though it takes significant creative liberties.


Monster (2003)
Description: A harrowing character study of a deeply troubled individual whose violent actions are rooted in personal trauma and societal neglect, offering a complex and tragic portrait.
Fact: The movie was shot in just 28 days, with much of the filming taking place in actual locations where the real-life events occurred.


Zodiac (2007)
Description: A meticulous and atmospheric crime drama that chronicles the obsessive hunt for an elusive murderer, blending procedural detail with a deep sense of unease and paranoia.
Fact: The film is noted for its painstaking attention to historical accuracy, including recreations of the Zodiac killer's cryptic letters.


The Poughkeepsie Tapes (2007)
Description: A found-footage horror film that immerses viewers in the gruesome aftermath of a serial killer's crimes, using a faux-documentary style to create an eerie sense of realism.
Fact: The movie was shot in 2001 but wasn't released until 2007, gaining a cult following due to its unsettling content.


The Frozen Ground (2013)
Description: A crime thriller that follows the intense manhunt for a serial predator, highlighting the meticulous police work and the emotional toll on the victims and investigators.
Fact: The film is based on the true story of Robert Hansen, a serial killer who hunted his victims in the Alaskan wilderness.


My Friend Dahmer (2017)
Description: This biographical drama provides a haunting look into the formative years of a notorious figure, focusing on the early signs of disturbing behavior and the failure of those around to recognize the danger.
Fact: The movie is based on a graphic novel by Derf Backderf, who was actually a high school classmate of Jeffrey Dahmer.


The House That Jack Built (2018)
Description: A dark and philosophical exploration of a serial killer's mind, blending graphic violence with existential musings on art, death, and the nature of evil.
Fact: The movie was highly controversial upon release, with many walkouts during its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival.


The Clovehitch Killer (2018)
Description: A psychological thriller that delves into the unsettling discovery of a seemingly ordinary family man's dark secret, mirroring the chilling exploration of a hidden double life.
Fact: The film is loosely inspired by the real-life BTK Killer, Dennis Rader, and explores the impact of such revelations on a family.


The Golden Glove (2019)
Description: A brutally unflinching depiction of a serial killer's life, focusing on the squalid environments and the grotesque nature of his crimes, creating a deeply unsettling experience.
Fact: The film's title refers to a real-life bar in Hamburg where the killer frequently picked up his victims.
