Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan’s Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menéndez Story has sparked a whirlwind of debate and controversy. This second installment in the Monsters series revisits the chilling 1989 case of Lyle and Erik Menéndez, who were convicted of brutally murdering their parents, José and Kitty Menéndez, in their Beverly Hills mansion. The brothers claimed their actions were a desperate response to years of emotional, physical, and sexual abuse at the hands of their parents, and the show dives into the complexities of their defense, portraying the traumatic events that led to the murders. Below, find the best true crime documentaries to watch if you loved Monsters.
There’s something about these real-life whodunnits that keeps us glued to the screen. The suspense, the shocking twists, and the psychological intrigue all feed into our curiosity about the darker side of humanity. So, if Monsters left you wanting more, we’ve rounded up a list of other must-watch true crime documentaries that will fuel your fascination for real-life mysteries and courtroom dramas.
7 Best True Crime Documentaries
Black Bird
Apple TV’s Black Bird tells the shocking true story of Jimmy Keene, a man who cut a deal with the FBI to befriend suspected serial killer Larry Hall and extract a confession. Based on Keene’s memoir, In with the Devil, the six-part mini-series follows his dangerous journey inside a maximum-security prison. Though it feels like fiction, these real-life events took place over 20 years ago, and Hall remains alive today.
Where to watch: Apple TV+
Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV
Since Jennette McCurdy’s 2022 memoir, I’m Glad My Mom Died, shed light on the toxic environment of Nickelodeon and the pitfalls of child stardom, more whistleblowers have come forward with startling revelations about the network. This four-part docuseries features former child stars like Drake Bell from Drake & Josh and Alexa Nicolas from Zoey 101, along with crew members, who reflect on their experiences with producer Dan Schneider. They reveal inappropriate behavior both on and off-screen and share the untold stories of abuse endured by child actors.
Where to watch: Binge
The Keepers
A Netflix docuseries that will keep you on your toes with countless unexpected twists. The Keepers is about the unsolved murder of Cathy Cesnik, a Baltimore nun and Catholic high school teacher. After her disappearance, her body was found. However, the killer was never uncovered – and the possible truth and cover-up are darker than we could have ever imagined.
Where to watch: Netflix
Making a Murderer
Over two gripping seasons, Making a Murderer takes viewers through the shocking twists of Steven Avery’s life. After spending nearly 20 years in prison for a crime he didn’t commit, Avery was exonerated, only to find himself back behind bars — this time for the alleged murder of a young photographer on his property.
Where to watch: Netflix
Conversations With a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes
The name Ted Bundy is synonymous with cold-blooded murder, so Conversations With a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes is a must-add for your true crime documentary marathon. As one of America’s most notorious serial killers, Bundy murdered more than 30 women, keeping a smooth appearance that lured in his victims. This docuseries brings together recordings of Bundy made while he was on death row, analyzing what makes a killer.
Where to watch: Netflix
American Nightmare
American Nightmare follows the chilling story of Aaron Quinn and Denise Huskins. On March 23, 2015, the couple was ambushed in their home by a masked intruder who blindfolded them, drugged them, and abducted Denise in the trunk of his car. Instead of being treated as a victim, Aaron was immediately thrust into the spotlight as the prime suspect. Days later, Denise’s reappearance sparked a media frenzy, with headlines likening her ordeal to a real-life Gone Girl mystery.
Where to watch: Netflix
Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult
Netflix’s hard-hitting three-part docuseries, Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult, follows the unsettling story of Miranda Wilking, a young dancer who unwittingly joined a management company that turned out to be a religious cult. The series uncovers the dark world of 7M, led by Robert Shinn. He faces allegations of sexual abuse and manipulating members to cut off contact with their families.
Where to watch: Netflix
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