If you're a fan of gripping true crime documentaries like 'Murdertown (2018),' you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that delve into chilling real-life mysteries, investigative journalism, and dark criminal cases. Whether you love uncovering the truth or analyzing crime stories, these recommendations will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The FBI Files (1998)
Description: A documentary series that provides an inside look at the Federal Bureau of Investigation's most challenging cases. It showcases the methods and teamwork involved in solving complex crimes, often involving federal jurisdiction.
Fact: The series was produced with the cooperation of the FBI, offering viewers unprecedented access to case files and investigative techniques.


Cold Case Files (1999)
Description: Focusing on unsolved cases that are reopened years later, this series highlights the persistence of law enforcement and the breakthroughs that modern technology can bring to old cases. It shares a narrative style that combines interviews, reenactments, and archival footage to tell compelling stories.
Fact: The show has been instrumental in bringing new attention to cold cases, sometimes leading to renewed investigations and arrests.


See No Evil (2015)
Description: This series relies heavily on surveillance footage to reconstruct crimes, showing how technology can be a powerful tool in solving cases. It highlights the role of video evidence in identifying perpetrators and piecing together events.
Fact: Many episodes feature cases where surveillance footage played a pivotal role in securing convictions, demonstrating its growing importance in law enforcement.


Evil Lives Here (2016)
Description: A true crime series that focuses on the personal stories of individuals who lived with or were close to criminals. It explores the psychological and emotional toll of discovering that someone they trusted was capable of heinous acts.
Fact: The show often features interviews with family members and friends, offering a rare and intimate perspective on the aftermath of crimes.


Forensic Files (1996)
Description: This series delves into the scientific methods used to solve crimes, showcasing how forensic evidence plays a crucial role in investigations. It mirrors the meticulous attention to detail and the reliance on forensic science to uncover the truth behind violent crimes.
Fact: The show has been used in forensic science courses to educate students about real-world applications of forensic techniques.


48 Hours (1988)
Description: A long-running investigative series that covers a wide range of crimes, often focusing on the human stories behind the headlines. It employs a journalistic approach, blending interviews, footage, and expert analysis to explore the complexities of criminal cases.
Fact: The show has won multiple awards for its in-depth reporting and has covered some of the most high-profile cases in recent history.


The New Detectives (1996)
Description: This series examines how forensic science and detective work come together to solve crimes. It emphasizes the role of technology and innovation in modern investigations, often featuring cases that were solved through groundbreaking techniques.
Fact: The show was one of the first to highlight the use of DNA evidence in solving crimes, showcasing its impact on the justice system.


City Confidential (1998)
Description: This series combines true crime storytelling with a focus on the communities affected by the crimes. It delves into the social and cultural contexts of the cases, offering a deeper understanding of the events and their impact on the people involved.
Fact: Each episode is set in a different city, providing a unique glimpse into the local culture and history alongside the crime narrative.


The First 48 (2004)
Description: This documentary series focuses on real-life homicide investigations, emphasizing the critical first 48 hours after a crime is committed. It shares a gritty, procedural approach to crime-solving, often highlighting the challenges faced by detectives in urban environments.
Fact: The show has been credited with helping solve cases by bringing attention to them, and it has one of the longest runs for a true crime documentary series.


American Justice (1992)
Description: A documentary series that explores high-profile criminal cases, focusing on the legal and investigative processes. It provides a comprehensive look at how justice is pursued, often revealing the intricacies and challenges of the legal system.
Fact: The series was hosted by Bill Kurtis, a renowned journalist, and was praised for its balanced and thorough coverage of complex cases.
