The modern age has seen a surge in the popularity of the true crime genre, with its compelling narratives captivating audiences worldwide. This genre has carved out its own niche in podcasts, stimulating countless conversations on infamous crime stories. Alongside, it has also made its mark in the sphere of visual narratives, weaving intriguing stories in both documentaries and fictional adaptations on television as well as the silver screen.
Thrillers, thanks to the advent of true crime, have also witnessed a resurgence in popularity. There is a newfound appeal in narratives that indulge in a meta-analysis of the crime genre, much like the approach horror took with films like ‘Scream’ during the ’90s. Shows like ‘Only Murders in the Building’ exemplify this trend, providing a quasi-satirical take by portraying lead characters who dive into amateur detective work, fuelled by their obsession with true crime.
Despite the recent surge in popularity, steeped in the past decade, true crime narratives have been present in our society for hundreds of years. These narratives have been a reliable form of storytelling, enriching our culture, for several past decades. Consequently, with this historical context, let’s explore some of the finest true crime movies that have graced the silver screen.
One standout example is ‘Hustlers’, a dazzling true crime spectacle that shines the spotlight on a mesmerizing performance by Jennifer Lopez. This compelling movie received high praise from both critics and audiences when it was launched in 2019, earning its place in the true crime canon.
‘In Cold Blood’ also deserves mention on any list recounting the top true crime films. Its visceral authenticity coupled with its striking black-and-white cinematography laid down the blueprint for visuals and tone in the true crime genre. This timeless movie, six decades since its release, continues to evoke a chilling atmosphere with its exploration of the genuine murder case of a family in Kansas during 1959.
‘Catch Me If You Can’ presents a unique take on the genre. Leonardo DiCaprio, in his charming portrayal under the guidance of the legendary Steven Spielberg, breathes life into this fast-paced, spirited crime comedy. Meanwhile, the illicit exploits of two notorious outlaws breathe a provocative edge into ‘Bonnie and Clyde’, a boundary-pushing thriller.
The recurring motif of societal systems failing its less fortunate members is thematically present in ‘Fruitvale Station’. This film explores America’s shortcomings in providing protection and support for the less privileged segments of its population, providing a different perspective on the genre.
‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ serves as a hard-hitting exposition on the racially-driven murders of numerous Osage Nation individuals resident in 1920s Oklahoma. It is a stark portrayal of the reprehensible, racially biased institutional failures that led to the central murders in the narrative.
‘Spotlight’ creatively amalgamates a true crime narrative with a journalism drama. Its detailed revelation of a Boston Globe team’s pursuit to uncover the Catholic Church’s systemic problems is as engaging as its tense criminal premise.
The magnum opus ‘Goodfellas’ presents an enthralling account of mobster Henry Hill’s real-life journey, marking a significant footprint in the true crime landscape. Simultaneously, ‘Memories of Murder’ provides a nuanced view on South Korea’s inaugural serial killing incident, creatively packaged in an engrossing narrative.
Closing our exploration, ‘Zodiac’ shines in its dual role, bringing both obsessional detailing of the real-life Zodiac murders and a psychologically layered narrative about fixation to audiences. The film is an exceedingly well-wrought piece chronicling the agonizing investigations that aimed to unmask the elusive murderer.