Interest in serial killer movies has surged in recent years as audiences increasingly seek stories rooted in real crimes rather than fictional horror.
While television series have dominated the true-crime space, several films based on real-life serial killers continue to shape the genre with their realism, psychological depth, and social relevance.
Unlike traditional slasher films, these serial killer movies draw terror from documented events, focusing on the human cost of violence and the environments that allowed such crimes to occur.
Below is a curated list of the best serial killer movies inspired by true stories, selected for their impact, authenticity, and critical acclaim.
The Honeymoon Killers (1970)
Inspired by the real “Lonely Hearts Killers,” this film explores a murderous partnership built on manipulation and obsession. Shot in stark black-and-white, it remains one of the earliest serial killer movies to adopt a documentary-style realism.
Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer (1986)
Loosely based on Henry Lee Lucas, this disturbing film follows a drifter who kills without motive or remorse. Widely regarded as one of the most unsettling serial killer movies ever made, it shocked audiences with its detached and unflinching portrayal of violence.
Monster (2003)
This acclaimed film stars Charlize Theron as Aileen Wuornos, one of America’s most notorious female serial killers. Unlike many serial killer movies, Monster focuses on psychological trauma and social isolation rather than sensationalized violence.
Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile (2019)
Based on the life of Ted Bundy, this film examines how charm and deception enabled one of history’s most infamous killers to evade suspicion. Among modern serial killer movies, it stands out for telling the story through the eyes of someone who loved the criminal.
Woman of the Hour (2023)
Set in the 1970s, this film dramatizes the shocking true story of Rodney Alcala, later known as “The Dating Game Killer.” The film critiques celebrity culture and highlights how danger can hide behind public personas — a recurring theme in many serial killer movies.
The Golden Glove (2019)
Based on German serial killer Fritz Honka, this grim film depicts a man who preyed on vulnerable women in Hamburg. Its brutal realism makes it one of the most disturbing European serial killer movies in recent years.
The Boston Strangler (1968)
This classic crime film dramatizes the investigation into the Boston Strangler murders of the early 1960s. Though not entirely accurate, it helped define the procedural style later adopted by many serial killer movies.
10 Rillington Place (1971)
Focusing on British serial killer John Reginald Christie, this film also exposes a major miscarriage of justice. It remains one of the most chilling serial killer movies ever produced in the UK.
Memories of Murder (2003)
Inspired by South Korea’s Hwaseong murders, this critically acclaimed film follows detectives struggling to capture an elusive killer. Often ranked among the greatest serial killer movies of all time, it blends crime, horror, and social commentary.
The Town That Dreaded Sundown (1976)
Based on the unsolved Texarkana Moonlight Murders, this film pioneered elements of the true-crime slasher genre. It remains a landmark entry in the history of serial killer movies.
Why Serial Killer Movies Continue to Captivate Audiences
The enduring appeal of serial killer movies lies in their connection to reality. These films explore not only the crimes themselves but also societal blind spots, investigative failures, and psychological warning signs. As true-crime interest grows globally, serial killer films remain a powerful and unsettling reflection of real-world fears.
