Dive into Darkness: 10 Gripping Aussie-Approved True Crime Documentaries to Stream Now
True crime's hold on us is undeniable, and the appetite for real-life stories of mystery, investigation, and justice continues to grow. Forget the dramatic re-enactments and sensationalised headlines of old – today’s true crime documentaries offer a deeper, more nuanced look at these complex cases. From chilling cold cases to shocking modern crimes, there's a documentary out there to captivate every true crime enthusiast.
But with so many options available, where do you start? We've curated a list of 10 of the latest and greatest true crime documentaries that are guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat. These aren't just stories; they're explorations of human behaviour, the flaws in our justice systems, and the enduring power of hope and resilience.
1. The Jinx: Part Two (HBO): Picking up where the first series left off, this documentary continues to unravel the bizarre case of Robert Durst, a New York real estate heir suspected of multiple murders.
2. American Nightmare (Netflix): A chilling account of a couple who believe they've been kidnapped, only to find themselves embroiled in a web of suspicion and police doubt.
3. Wild Crime (Netflix): This docuseries follows wildlife rangers in Australia as they combat poaching and illegal activity in remote national parks, showcasing a different kind of crime against nature.
4. The Staircase (Netflix): The story of Michael Peterson, accused of murdering his wife Kathleen, whose trial became a media sensation. The series examines the evidence and the questions that remain.
5. Don't F**k with Cats: Hunting an Internet Killer (Netflix): A disturbing and gripping look at how internet sleuths tracked down a man who posted videos of animal abuse, leading to the discovery of far more sinister crimes.
6. I'll Be Gone in the Dark (HBO): Based on Michelle McNamara's book, this documentary chronicles her obsessive search for the Golden State Killer, a serial rapist and murderer who terrorised California for decades.
7. The Keepers (Netflix): This docuseries explores the unsolved murder of a Catholic high school nun in Baltimore and the allegations of abuse within the school.
8. Crime Scene: The Vanishing at the Cecil Hotel (Netflix): A deep dive into the disappearance of Elisa Lam at the infamous Cecil Hotel in Los Angeles, exploring the hotel's dark history and the strange circumstances surrounding her vanishing.
9. Night Stalker: The Hunt for a Serial Killer (Netflix): A detailed account of the crimes of Richard Ramirez, the “Night Stalker” who terrorised Los Angeles in the 1980s.
10. The Innocent Man (Netflix): Based on a book by John Grisham, this documentary follows the case of Ron Williamson, who was wrongly convicted of murder.
So grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and prepare to be engrossed by these compelling true crime documentaries. Just remember to take breaks – these stories can be intense! Happy streaming, cobbers!