If you were captivated by the chilling true-crime drama 'Husband, Father, Killer: The Alyssa Pladl Story' (2024), you're likely craving more gripping stories of deception, betrayal, and justice. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that deliver the same intense, real-life suspense, perfect for fans of crime documentaries and psychological thrillers.

The Staircase (2022)
Description: A documentary-style drama that chronicles the lengthy legal battle of a man accused of murdering his wife, exploring themes of justice, media influence, and family dynamics.
Fact: The series is a dramatization of the infamous case of Michael Peterson, which was previously the subject of a popular documentary series. It offers a fresh perspective on the case's many twists and turns.


The Girl from Plainville (2022)
Description: A dramatic retelling of a high-profile case involving a young woman accused of encouraging her boyfriend to commit suicide, highlighting themes of guilt, media scrutiny, and moral ambiguity.
Fact: The series is inspired by the controversial 'texting suicide' case involving Michelle Carter, which sparked nationwide debate about accountability and mental health.


The Thing About Pam (2022)
Description: A darkly comedic true crime series that unravels the bizarre and twisted story of a woman involved in a murder case, blending elements of mystery and psychological intrigue.
Fact: The show is based on a Dateline NBC podcast and real-life events, featuring a protagonist whose actions defy conventional expectations of criminal behavior.


Dirty John (2018)
Description: A gripping true crime series that examines the dangers of toxic relationships, focusing on a charming but dangerous conman who infiltrates a family's life.
Fact: The show is based on a popular podcast of the same name, which detailed the real-life crimes of John Meehan. The series explores themes of trust, betrayal, and survival.


The Night Of (2016)
Description: A gritty crime drama that follows a young man accused of murder, delving into the complexities of the legal system and the personal toll of being entangled in a high-stakes case.
Fact: The series was praised for its realistic portrayal of the criminal justice system and its impact on individuals. It originally began development in 2012 but faced delays due to casting changes.


Sharp Objects (2018)
Description: A psychological thriller that explores the dark secrets of a small town through the eyes of a troubled journalist, blending elements of mystery, trauma, and family dysfunction.
Fact: The series is based on the debut novel by Gillian Flynn, who also wrote 'Gone Girl.' It features a haunting soundtrack and a nonlinear narrative that keeps viewers on edge.


Big Little Lies (2017)
Description: A drama that intertwines the lives of several women in an affluent community, revealing hidden tensions, secrets, and a central crime that binds them together.
Fact: Originally planned as a limited series, its success led to a second season. The show is known for its star-studded cast and its exploration of themes like domestic abuse and female solidarity.


The Undoing (2020)
Description: A suspenseful thriller that follows a wealthy couple whose lives unravel after a violent death, exploring themes of privilege, deception, and the fragility of appearances.
Fact: The series was filmed in New York City and features stunning cinematography that contrasts the glamorous lifestyle of its characters with the dark undercurrents of the story.


The Act (2019)
Description: A true crime drama that delves into the disturbing relationship between a mother and daughter, exploring themes of manipulation, deception, and psychological abuse.
Fact: The series is based on the real-life case of Gypsy Rose Blanchard and her mother Dee Dee, whose story shocked the nation. The show received critical acclaim for its chilling portrayal of Munchausen syndrome by proxy.


The Sinner (2017)
Description: An anthology crime series that delves into the psychological motivations behind seemingly inexplicable crimes, focusing on the hidden traumas that drive people to violence.
Fact: Each season of the show follows a different case, with the first season being based on a novel by Petra Hammesfahr. The series is known for its intense character studies and unexpected twists.
