If you were captivated by the chilling true-crime drama 'The Menendez Murders: Erik Tells All (2017),' you're likely craving more gripping stories of crime, family secrets, and legal battles. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that delve into dark family dynamics, shocking crimes, and courtroom drama, offering the same intense storytelling that kept you hooked.

Dirty John (2018)
Description: A gripping true crime narrative that explores the dark side of relationships and the consequences of trust being exploited, mirroring themes of manipulation and crime within families.
Fact: The show is based on the popular podcast of the same name by the Los Angeles Times, which investigated the real-life story of John Meehan.


The Night Of (2016)
Description: A crime drama that meticulously examines the criminal justice system and the personal toll of being accused of a heinous crime, paralleling the intense legal and emotional scrutiny faced by defendants.
Fact: The series was inspired by the British show 'Criminal Justice' and is known for its realistic portrayal of the legal process.


American Crime Story (2016)
Description: This anthology series dramatizes high-profile criminal cases, offering a deep dive into the legal and personal dramas surrounding infamous crimes, much like the exploration of a notorious murder case.
Fact: The first season, 'The People v. O.J. Simpson,' won multiple Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Limited Series.


The Clovehitch Killer (2018)
Description: A psychological thriller that explores the dark secrets within a seemingly normal family, mirroring the themes of hidden violence and the duality of public and private personas.
Fact: The film is loosely inspired by the real-life BTK Killer, Dennis Rader, who led a double life as a family man and a serial killer.


I'll Be Gone in the Dark (2020)
Description: A documentary series that follows the investigation of a notorious serial killer, highlighting the relentless pursuit of justice and the impact of crime on victims' families, similar to the focus on a high-profile murder case.
Fact: The series is based on Michelle McNamara's bestselling book, which played a key role in reviving interest in the Golden State Killer case.


The Case Against Adnan Syed (2019)
Description: A documentary series that re-examines a controversial murder case, focusing on the flaws in the justice system and the lasting doubts about the conviction, similar to the themes of legal injustice and media influence.
Fact: The series is a follow-up to the popular podcast 'Serial,' which first brought international attention to Adnan Syed's case.


The Act (2019)
Description: This series delves into a shocking true crime story, focusing on psychological manipulation and family dynamics, similar to the themes of deception and familial betrayal.
Fact: The series is based on the real-life case of Gypsy Rose Blanchard and her mother Dee Dee, which gained widespread media attention for its bizarre and tragic nature.


The Murder of Laci Peterson (2017)
Description: This documentary explores a widely publicized murder case, delving into the media frenzy and legal battles that surrounded it, much like the scrutiny and public interest in a notorious crime.
Fact: The case of Laci Peterson's murder led to significant changes in California's laws regarding the media's access to trials.


Making a Murderer (2015)
Description: A groundbreaking documentary series that follows the controversial case of a man accused of murder, highlighting potential miscarriages of justice and the power of media scrutiny, similar to the intense legal and public examination of a crime.
Fact: The series sparked widespread debate and led to new legal efforts on behalf of the accused, Steven Avery.
