Top 30 Movies About Serial Killers
Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks for films based on real life serial killers. We’ll be excluding movies where real killers served as inspiration, but the plot is mostly fictional, such as with “The Texas Chain Saw Massacre” and “The Silence of the Lambs.” Which serial killer film had the biggest impact on you? Let us know in the comments.
#30: “Deranged” (1974)
Based on murderer Ed Gein, who will show up again later, “Deranged” follows a deeply disturbed man on a violent spree. Ezra Cobb is pushed over the edge by the death of his equally unstable mother. Because of his fascination with the dead, Cobb starts to meddle with bodies of the deceased. This goes further when Cobb decides to kill women to feed his obsession. “Deranged” lives up to its title in more ways than one, as the antagonist’s messed-up psyche is clear to see. It’s a depiction of how fiendish a person becomes after shedding all sense of morality. The movie never leaves any room for sympathy either. Cobb’s crimes are represented as the true horror they are.
#29: “The Capture of the Green River Killer” (2008)
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The Green River slayings lasted for nearly two decades. One of the people responsible for the killer’s capture is David Reichert, whose efforts this film follows. There are slight liberties taken with the story, but it also includes fascinating details such as Reichert’s interview with serial killer Ted Bundy. Subtle in its storytelling, the movie builds toward the eventual capture of the villain, later identified as Gary Ridgway. Unlike most entries in the genre, this one isn’t known for its scary quality. Instead, “The Capture of the Green River Killer” takes viewers along the long road to bringing Ridgway to justice.
#28: “Dear Mr. Gacy” (2010)
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The infamous John Wayne Gacy makes his first appearance on our list here. Criminology student Jason Moss looks to understand the mind of a serial slayer. He writes to Gacy, acting as an admirer to gain Gacy’s trust. While the premise might seem far-fetched, it’s actually based on the real Moss’s correspondence with Gacy. The film dramatizes some of the events but retains the emotional impact on Moss’s psyche. Despite what it sounds like, “Dear Mr. Gacy” doesn’t portray the titular killer in a relatable way. We see that there’s no understanding a person capable of such violence. Some viewers might be uncomfortable with how the subject matter is portrayed. But that’s what the film is going for.
#27: “An Officer and a Murderer” (2012)
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When it comes to safety, it’s better to trust no one. People like Russell Williams prove why. The former colonel was a seemingly model member of the community until his true nature was exposed. “An Officer and a Murderer” depicts the events that turned Williams into the criminal we know him to be. When his creepy curiosities get the best of him, Williams gradually turns his attention to bigger crimes. The villain also continues to present his facade of a family man, all the while searching for his next victim. The movie isn’t completely accurate, but Williams’ fall from grace is shown for a larger audience to be aware of.
#26: “The Night Stalker” (2016)
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“The Night Stalker” is one of several names given to Richard Ramirez. The murderer was convicted for his rampage in the ‘80s, ultimately dying in prison while on death row. This film is set during his lifetime and told through the perspective of a fictional lawyer named Kit. When a seemingly innocent man is convicted of murder, Kit has to get Ramirez to confess instead. During these dramatic events, we’re taken back to Ramirez’s heinous past. Thanks to Lou Diamond Phillips’ performance, viewers see how Ramirez gathered victims through charisma and intimidation. “The Night Stalker” also leaves room to show the impact the killer had on the community. We watch in horror as he thrives on forcing people to live in fear.
#25: “Appropriate Adult” (2011)
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The West couple remain among the most wicked people in recent history. Fred and Rosemary West committed over a dozen murders, including their own child. “Appropriate Adult” dramatizes the titular role social worker Janet Leach performed for Fred West. Bound by a duty of confidence, Leach helplessly learns about West’s reprehensible actions. Much as it is portrayed in the film, the real Leach also struggled under the weight of West’s confessions. Having her as the main character provides an outsider’s point of view. This framing device prevents West’s killings from being glamorized while respecting the memory of his victims.
#24: “Boston Strangler” (2023)
Catching criminals can be interrupted because of flaws in the system. In this biographical film, reporters Loretta McLaughlin and Jean Cole piece together the story of the Boston Strangler’s crimes. Unfortunately, institutional sexism prevents them from bringing this to light. McLaughlin and Cole’s struggles allow the killer to continue his spree for years. While they were ultimately able to publicize the truth, lives could have been saved if the authorities acted sooner. “Boston Strangler” is a valid behind-the-scenes look at how complicated it can be to seek justice. It’s a long overdue story that sheds light on these brave women who refused to be silenced.
#23: “A Is for Acid” (2002)
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John Haigh became infamous as the Acid Bath Murderer in the ‘40s. Misinterpreting the law, Haigh confessed to killing people before dissolving their bodies in acid. “A Is for Acid” is told from the killer’s perspective, taking viewers from his early days to his final moments. However, it focuses more on his selfish motives rather than lingering on his twisted mind. The film is paced as a cat-and-mouse thriller, as Haigh covers his tracks by creating a web of lies. The serial killer’s actions have been adapted in a number of works, but “A Is for Acid” arguably presents the most detailed account.
#22: “In the Light of the Moon” (2000)
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The horrific crimes of Ed Gein have inspired a number of films over the years, including "Psycho" and "Deranged." This 2000 film is definitely less well-known, but it remains a noteworthy exploration of the killer’s dark legacy. "In the Light of the Moon" is also known under the more basic and to-the-point title,"Ed Gein," and stars Steve Railsback (more on him later) as the titular killer. Critical reputation was overall...not kind to the film, but horror fans did praise Railsback's performance, as well as the intensity of the storytelling. Basically, this is low budget exploitation filmmaking aimed squarely at that audience—but it does the job.
#21: “Karla” (2006)
As far as Canadian killers go, there are few couples more infamous than Paul Bernardo and Karla Homolka. The notorious case is dramatized here with the 2006 film "Karla," using both the severity of the couple's crimes as well as the outrage around Karla's release from prison as fuel for its story. Bernardo and Homolka worked together during their spree in the early nineties, yet Karla managed to strike a plea deal with prosecutors, claiming that abuse from Bernardo forced her hand. "Karla” paints Homolka as an accomplice, but also as a victim in her own right. For this reason, the film naturally generated a lot of controversy upon release.
#20: “No Man of God” (2021)
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Films about Ted Bundy were far from new by the time of “No Man of God”’s release. Still, it offers another way to perceive the killer. Based on the correspondence between Bundy and FBI Agent Bill Hagmaier, the story shows Bundy’s knack for getting under people’s skin. During their conversations, Hagmaier finds himself being significantly affected by the killer’s way with words. Thanks to the chemistry between actors Elijah Wood and Luke Kirby, the strange connection between Hagmaier and Bundy comes across with disturbing clarity. “No Man of God” flirts with the idea of Bundy’s redemption before peeling the mask off. The film is a bold take that adds a new layer to familiar material.
#19: “The Golden Glove” (2019)
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Serial killer films, by design, don’t typically make for a pleasant viewing experience. Even by the standards of the genre though, "The Golden Glove'' can be an especially difficult watch. The divisive film is primarily defined by its unrelentingly grim tone. This isn't to say that the film is bad per se. Rather, this dramatization of Fritz Honka's crimes against sex workers in the 1970s is just...well, extremely dour and brutal. It feels like an almost voyeuristic examination of the crimes without much depth as to why they're happening. In fact, it’s been called “one of the most vile serial killer movies ever made". Don't say we didn't warn you!
#18: “Summer of Sam” (1999)
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There's a lot to appreciate about Spike Lee's "Summer of Sam," co-written by Lee and “Sopranos” star Michael Imperioli. For starters, there's a great cross-section of stories and character arcs to the film, which is set during the summer of 1977, as a terrified New York City found itself at the mercy of David Berkowitz, the Son of Sam. There's also Lee's attention to detail, which nails the vibe of the city at the time. There's tension at every turn, as scenes with Berkowitz are intercut with the compelling personal dramas of the characters. It's proof that not all serial killer films need to be gratuitous slashers or slow burn procedurals. "Summer of Sam" is in a class all its own.
#17: “Memories of Murder” (2003)
Bong Joon-Ho's Oscar win for "Parasite" felt like something of a shared victory for fans of genre cinema. A truly remarkable and challenging film was getting recognized on the grandest stage of them all. That said, fans of Bong know that “Parasite” was by no means his first great film. In 2003, he gave us this examination of South Korea's most infamous serial killer. "Memories of Murder" follows the case of Lee Choon-jae, who confessed to killing over a dozen people between 1986 and 1994. Today, it's seen as an early classic from the director—one that utilizes social satire, dark humor and police procedural elements to craft a thriller that's, well, actually thrilling.
#16: “The Frozen Ground” (2013)
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Speaking of police procedurals, "The Frozen Ground" came and went in 2013 without much fanfare. But true crime buffs seeking a dramatization of the Robert Hansen case will want to check it out. Hansen became known in Alaska as the "Butcher Baker" – an unstable and angry man who, in the 70s and 80s, kidnapped women and flew them out to the woods to hunt them down. "The Frozen Ground" cast John Cusack as Hansen, with the actor actually possessing a passing resemblance to the man. Critics also praised Nicolas Cage's performance as the State Trooper tasked with bringing the killer to justice.
#15: “The Boston Strangler” (1968)
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Let’s face it, many movies about real serial killers are cheap, drab affairs, but not “The Boston Strangler.” Based on the same true story as an earlier entry on this list, Richard Fleischer directed, and it stars Hollywood A-listers Henry Fonda and Tony Curtis, who received a Golden Globe nomination for his work. The movie was extremely controversial upon its release in 1968; this was not only for its content, but because many critics considered it exploitative and immoral.The movie plays fast and loose with the facts - Albert DeSalvo most definitely did not suffer from multiple personality disorder - but the performances and production values are all so good that we can see past the fabrications.
#14: “Helter Skelter” (1976)
“Helter Skelter” was adapted from the 1974 Vincent Bugliosi and Curt Gentry true crime book, which covered the infamous murders and trials of the Manson Family. It aired on CBS over two nights in 1976. While you might expect a made-for-TV movie from the ‘70s to be less-than-great, the film perfectly captures the pandemonium, hysteria, and sheer shock of the events. Steve Railsback is straight-up horrifying as Charles Manson - just look at those eyes! - and the movie provides viewers with a highly detailed and factual representation of the infamous case. It was nominated for three Emmys and a Directors Guild of America award, proving that serial killer movies and prestige can in fact go hand-in-hand.
#13: “To Catch a Killer” (1992)
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“To Catch a Killer” is another television movie, but, like “Helter Skelter,” the fact that it was made for television does nothing to negatively impact its quality. The movie follows Michael Riley’s Lieutenant Kozenczak as he becomes suspicious of the charming and popular John Wayne Gacy, who is played spectacularly by Brian Dennehy. This movie is different from most, in that it does not depict Gacy’s killings. It’s more interested in the cat-and-mouse game between the police and Gacy, and as such, it’s more like a detective film than anything else. It forgoes blood and guts to tell a more intense and personal story, and it’s all the better for it.
#12: “Dahmer” (2002)
While “Dahmer” isn’t perfect, it definitely has a few good things going for it. For one, Jeremy Renner is spectacular as Jeffrey Dahmer, arguably the sickest serial killer in history. He imbues Dahmer with both a horrific sense of psychopathy, while remaining, bizarrely, almost relatable. It’s a tricky tightrope-walk of a performance, but Renner miraculously pulls it off. The movie also explores Dahmer’s character in a way that other adaptations may be too afraid of or unwilling to do. While he is a psychopath through-and-through, we come to understand his twisted motivations through the writing and Renner’s complex performance. It’s a little low-budget and rough around the edges, but Renner makes it all worthwhile.
#11: “The Deliberate Stranger” (1986)
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Yes, it’s another made-for-TV movie! This one aired on NBC in 1986 and stars Mark Harmon as Ted Bundy, one of the most infamous serial killers of all time. Harmon is magnetic as Bundy, earning a Golden Globe nomination and the praise of Polly Nelson, Bundy’s real lawyer, who called Harmon and the film “stunningly accurate.” As it was made for TV, the movie omits the grisly details of Bundy’s crimes, but Harmon’s chillingly charming performance is scarier than blood and gore could ever be. It’s the killers, not the blood, who fascinate us, and “The Deliberate Stranger” knows it.
#10: “Charlie Says” (2018)
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Charles Manson’s “family” receives attention in this biographical drama. While Manson’s presence is felt, the film centers around the three women who killed for him. The perspective of Leslie Van Houten, Patricia Krenwinkel, and Susan Atkins plays out, as they remain entranced with Manson’s teachings. In the ‘70s, human rights activist Karlene Faith attempted to break the women out of their delusions. As its title implies, the three are too far gone under Manson’s influence. Although they are humanized to an extent, “Charlie Says” reaffirms that their crimes are irredeemable. It’s an interesting character study bolstered by sharp performances by its cast.
#9: “My Friend Dahmer” (2017)
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It isn't every serial killer film that takes its source material from a graphic novel, but then again "My Friend Dahmer" isn't your average serial killer film. For starters, both fans and critics responded positively to how the film captured the facts of the case, while also working on a cinematic level. Ross Lynch's performance as Dahmer opens the door to understanding the circumstances behind his mental state, while also never apologizing for the horrible and cruel nature of his crimes. In a world where nuance is often forgotten, "My Friend Dahmer” gets a lot right, and is definitely deserving of your time.
#8: “Ted Bundy” (2002)
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The succinctly titled "Ted Bundy" stars Michael Reilly Burke as the notorious serial killer, capturing the man's dual nature quite well. On one hand, there's the charm that Bundy uses to lure victims into a false sense of security. Then, there's the dark side of Bundy, the deviant behavior that eventually leads to criminal activity on the most shocking level. The film has its flaws, but "Ted Bundy" really hinges on the performance of Burke, pushing what might otherwise be a flop into one of the more well known adaptations of the case.
#7: “Citizen X” (1995)
Andrei Chikatilo is one of the most notorious and unrepentant serial killers of all time, a ruthless man who terrorized the USSR for over a decade. It's a challenging tale to adapt, yet this excellent made-for-cable movie more than succeeds. "Citizen X" was produced for HBO in 1995, and stars Jeffrey DeMunn as Chikatilo, with Stephen Rea, Donald Sutherland and Max von Sydow rounding out the cast. The film earned CableACE, Emmy and Golden Globe Awards, striking an effective balance between the grim facts of the crimes and the authorities' relentless hunt for justice. "Citizen X" is another reminder that “made-for-tv” doesn’t need to be a bad thing!
#6: “Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile” (2019)
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Skeptics may have called out the next entry on our list for its "stunt casting" of Zac Efron as Ted Bundy, but the former "High School Musical" star certainly proved he was up to the task. "Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile" was a worthy addition to Netflix’s true crime library, and endeavored to add something new to the well-known case of Ted Bundy. In this, the film was partially successful, but most of "Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile" hangs its hat on Efron, and his ability to turn on the charm. The actor honestly does a great job making the audience see how Bundy could balance two very different lives, without ever making excuses for the horrific crimes.
#5: “10 Rillington Place” (1971)
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This movie depicts the story of John Christie, an English man who killed eight or more people at the titular 10 Rillington Place between 1943 and 1953. What makes this film so captivating is its authenticity. Richard Attenborough is mesmerizing as Christie, and John Hurt received a BAFTA nomination for his work as Timothy Evans, the man who was falsely accused of Christie’s crimes. The house’s exterior scenes were shot on the actual real-life street - although they were forced to film in nearby #7 rather than the historic #10. This helps bring the story to life, and immerses us in one of the most notorious crimes in English history.
#4: “Snowtown” (2011)
The Snowtown murders rocked Australia in the 1990s. Also known as the bodies-in-barrels murders, the brutal killings were committed by three young men (with the help of a fourth) who considered themselves vigilantes. The film pulls no punches – it’s a brutal, visceral experience, which is aided by the director’s choice to use real locals rather than professional actors for most of the roles. “Snowtown” serves as Justin Kurzel’s feature directorial debut, although you wouldn’t know it; the movie is professionally made, and the realistic approach it takes may be enough to turn a few viewers’ stomachs. This is real horror based on real events, and it makes for a highly disturbing watch.
#3: “Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer” (1986)
This film is an interesting anomaly on our list; it’s based on the (many, many) confessions of real-life murderer Henry Lee Lucas. But the majority of those confessions turned out to be false. However, the infamy of this case, and the fact that some of Henry’s actual experiences are portrayed too, earns it a spot here. Michael Rooker brilliantly portrays Henry, and Tom Towles plays Otis, a character based on the real Ottis Toole. The movie is a bleak, uncompromising, and realistic portrayal of a psychopath, and as such, it was immediately slapped with an X rating by the MPAA. It has remained controversial throughout the years due to its content, although the film’s direction and Rooker’s terrifying performance have remained consistently praised – despite it not being an easy watch by any means.
#2: “Monster” (2003)
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There is one overwhelming reason to see this movie: Charlize Theron. Theron is completely unrecognizable (both physically and mentally) as serial killer Aileen Wuornos. Theron was showered with accolades for her performance as the john-murdering prostitute, winning a SAG Award, a Golden Globe, and an Academy Award, not to mention having Roger Ebert call it “one of the greatest performances in the history of the cinema.” So, yeah, we think she did okay. Her portrayal allows us to both fear and feel sorry for Aileen, a killer haunted by mental illness and the circumstances of her tragic life. It’s both harrowing and heartbreaking.
#1: “Zodiac” (2007)
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Ah, if only all serial killer movies could be as good as “Zodiac.” David Fincher - who knows a thing or two about onscreen murder - directs, and the movie stars Jake Gyllenhaal, Mark Ruffalo, and Robert Downey, Jr. as the men hunting for the enigmatic Zodiac Killer of the late ‘60s and early ‘70s. This is a thriller done right – the performances are outstanding, the content dark and dreary, and the murder scenes (few as they may be) disturbingly realistic. “Zodiac” is an unsettling and captivating look into one of the most infamous cold cases of all time, and it’ll have you researching the Zodiac Killer long after the credits roll.
