The Best Movies Based on Real Murders

This gritty and intense drama chronicles the life and crimes of Aileen Wuornos, a former prostitute who became notorious as one of America's first female serial killers. Charlize Theron delivers a transformative, Oscar-winning performance as Wuornos, fully immersing herself in the character to portray her disturbing mental state and tumultuous relationship with her lover, Selby Wall, played by Christina Ricci, whose love may have pushed her over the edge. The film not only sheds light on the horrifying actions of one woman but also delves into the deeper societal issues that contributed to her downward spiral.

Based on the shocking kidnapping and murder of 15-year-old Nicholas Markowitz, this crime drama follows the events that led to the tragic event orchestrated by drug dealer Jesse James Hollywood. With a cast of notable young actors, including Emile Hirsch, Justin Timberlake, and Anton Yelchin, the film offers a disturbing look into the lives of reckless and impulsive criminals who become entangled in a deadly web of their own making. Alpha Dog serves as a cautionary tale about the dangerous path one can take when trying to maintain power and control.

David Fincher masterfully directs this gripping thriller about the infamous Zodiac Killer, who terrorized Northern California in the 1960s and 1970s. The film follows investigators and reporters as they become obsessed with solving the series of grisly murders, unearthing increasingly baffling clues and confronting terrifying suspects. With an all-star cast led by Jake Gyllenhaal, Robert Downey Jr., and Mark Ruffalo, Zodiac captures the unease and mounting terror of the era, offering audiences a chilling experience that stays with them long after the credits roll.

This heartbreaking and poignant film tells the true story of Brandon Teena, a young trans man who faced brutal discrimination and violence in rural Nebraska. The film captures the struggles of living and asserting one's identity in an unforgiving world, with an unforgettable and harrowing performance by Hilary Swank earning her an Academy Award for Best Actress. By focusing on the complex relationships and tragic events that culminated in Teena's murder, the story brings attention to the ongoing issues of hatred and intolerance against LGBTQ+ individuals.

This biographical drama stars Zac Efron in a mesmerizing performance as Ted Bundy, the charming and notorious serial killer who assaulted and murdered at least 30 women during the 1970s. Told from the perspective of Bundy's longtime girlfriend, Liz Kendall (played by Lily Collins), the movie reveals the disturbing duality of a man who could be caring and charismatic while hiding unimaginable horrors. By focusing on the relationship between Bundy and Kendall, the film explores the depths of manipulation and deceit employed by this devious criminal.

This unsettling and provocative drama is based on the real-life murder of Bobby Kent, a manipulative and abusive teenager who was killed by a group of his peers, led by Marty Puccio. With its graphic depiction of sex, drugs, and violence, the film offers a disturbing portrayal of disillusioned youth on the fringes of society. Directed by Larry Clark, Bully raises uneasy questions about morality, responsibility, and the potential for groupthink to lead to deadly consequences.