If you were captivated by the chilling true-crime story of 'The Murder of Laci Peterson (2017),' you're likely craving more gripping documentaries and dramas that explore similar cases of crime, justice, and mystery. This article highlights 10 compelling movies and shows that share the same intense storytelling and real-life intrigue, perfect for true-crime enthusiasts.

There's Something Wrong with Aunt Diane (2011)
Description: A documentary that investigates the tragic 2009 Taconic State Parkway crash, delving into the mystery surrounding Diane Schuler's actions. It shares a focus on unraveling the truth behind a shocking and inexplicable event.
Fact: The film raises questions about the official explanation of the crash, suggesting that there may have been more to the story than was initially reported.


The Woman Who Wasn't There (2012)
Description: This documentary uncovers the story of Tania Head, a woman who fabricated her survival of the 9/11 attacks. It explores themes of deception and the psychological need for attention, similar to other cases of elaborate hoaxes.
Fact: Tania Head's story was so convincing that she became a prominent figure in the 9/11 survivors' community before her lies were exposed.


The Central Park Five (2012)
Description: A documentary that chronicles the wrongful conviction of five teenagers in the Central Park jogger case. It highlights the failures of the justice system and the impact of media sensationalism, similar to other high-profile wrongful conviction stories.
Fact: The film was directed by Ken Burns, his son David Burns, and Sarah Burns, who also wrote a book on the subject.


The Night Of (2016)
Description: A gripping crime drama that delves into the complexities of the justice system through the lens of a murder case. It examines the psychological and legal battles faced by the accused, mirroring the intense scrutiny and media frenzy surrounding high-profile trials.
Fact: The series was inspired by the British show 'Criminal Justice' and features Riz Ahmed in a breakout role.


The Widower (2014)
Description: A true crime drama series based on the case of Malcolm Webster, who murdered his first wife and attempted to kill his second. It shares a focus on the calculated and sinister actions of a manipulative individual within a domestic setting.
Fact: The series is based on real events and was produced by ITV Studios.


I'll Be Gone in the Dark (2020)
Description: This documentary series explores the chilling case of the Golden State Killer, blending true crime investigation with personal narrative. It shares a deep dive into a high-profile criminal case, focusing on the victims and the relentless pursuit of justice.
Fact: The series is based on Michelle McNamara's posthumously published book, and her husband, Patton Oswalt, was heavily involved in its production.


The Case Against Adnan Syed (2019)
Description: A documentary series that re-examines the controversial murder case of Hae Min Lee and the conviction of Adnan Syed. It parallels the meticulous dissection of evidence and the lingering doubts about justice being served.
Fact: The series is a follow-up to the wildly popular podcast 'Serial,' which first brought the case to national attention.


The Act (2019)
Description: This true crime anthology series dramatizes the bizarre and tragic case of Gypsy Rose Blanchard, focusing on the twisted dynamics of a mother-daughter relationship that leads to murder. It shares a focus on familial deception and the dark side of human nature.
Fact: The series is based on a 2016 BuzzFeed article titled 'Dee Dee Wanted Her Daughter To Be Sick, Gypsy Wanted Her Mom To Be Murdered.'


The Witness (2015)
Description: This documentary investigates the infamous Kitty Genovese murder, exploring the bystander effect and the quest for truth decades after the crime. It shares a focus on revisiting a historic case with modern perspectives and unresolved questions.
Fact: The film is directed by James D. Solomon and features Kitty Genovese's brother, Bill, as he seeks to uncover the truth about his sister's death.


The Staircase (2004)
Description: A documentary series that follows the trial of Michael Peterson, accused of murdering his wife Kathleen. It provides an in-depth look at the legal process and the media circus surrounding a controversial case, much like other high-profile true crime stories.
Fact: The series was originally released in 2004 but was updated with new episodes in 2013 and 2018 as the case continued to unfold.
