If You Loved Happy Face Killer, Watch These Next

Description: This classic crime film dramatizes the hunt for the notorious Boston Strangler, blending police procedural with psychological thriller elements. The tension and period detail create a gripping narrative.

Fact: The film was one of the first to use split-screen techniques to show simultaneous events. It stars Tony Curtis in a rare dramatic role as the suspected killer.

Description: This gritty, low-budget film offers a stark and unflinching look at the life of a serial killer, devoid of glamorization. The documentary-style approach adds to its unsettling realism.

Fact: The film was based on the confessions of real-life serial killer Henry Lee Lucas, though many of his claims were later debunked. It was initially given an X rating due to its graphic content.

Description: A chilling biopic that focuses on the life and crimes of one of America's most infamous serial killers. The film's intimate portrayal of his disturbing behavior and motivations is both unsettling and fascinating.

Fact: Jeremy Renner's portrayal of Jeffrey Dahmer earned him critical acclaim. The film was shot in just 18 days on a very low budget.

Description: A harrowing portrayal of a female serial killer, this movie examines the psychological and societal factors that led to her crimes. The raw and unflinching narrative provides a deep dive into the complexities of her character.

Fact: Charlize Theron underwent a dramatic physical transformation for the role, including prosthetic teeth and gaining weight. The film is based on the true story of Aileen Wuornos.

Description: This film meticulously chronicles the hunt for the elusive Zodiac Killer, blending investigative journalism with personal obsession. The tension and procedural detail create a haunting atmosphere.

Fact: Director David Fincher insisted on using the actual locations where the Zodiac Killer's crimes occurred. The film is based on Robert Graysmith's books about the case.

Description: This film delves into the life of a notorious contract killer, exploring the duality of his seemingly normal family life and his brutal profession. The psychological depth and chilling realism make it a gripping study of a murderer's mind.

Fact: The real-life Iceman, Richard Kuklinski, claimed to have killed over 100 people, though the exact number remains unknown. The film is based on interviews and FBI files.

Description: Focusing on the teenage years of a future serial killer, this movie offers a disturbing look at his early life and the signs of his dark future. The slow-burn narrative builds a sense of inevitable horror.

Fact: The film is based on a graphic novel by Derf Backderf, who was actually friends with Jeffrey Dahmer in high school. It explores Dahmer's isolation and disturbing behaviors during his youth.

Description: A deeply disturbing exploration of a serial killer's mind, this film blends horror with philosophical musings on art and violence. The nonlinear narrative and graphic imagery make it a challenging watch.

Fact: The film was controversial upon release, with many walkouts during its Cannes premiere. It is divided into five episodes, each representing a different incident in the killer's life.

Description: A suburban family's life is upended when a teenager begins to suspect his father might be a serial killer. The film masterfully blends domestic drama with creeping dread.

Fact: The story is loosely inspired by the BTK Killer, Dennis Rader. The title refers to a specific knot used by the killer in his crimes.

Description: Set in 1970s Hamburg, this film portrays the gruesome crimes of a serial killer who targeted vulnerable women. The bleak and unflinching depiction of his life and crimes is both shocking and compelling.

Fact: The film is based on the true story of Fritz Honka, who murdered at least four women. The title refers to the bar where he often picked up his victims.