Terrifying True Crime Stories That Inspired Movies and Series: Dahmer, Girl in the Basement, Monsters, and More

Terrifying True Crime Stories That Became Films and Series

 

The fascination with true crime narratives has given rise to a plethora of captivating movies and television series. Here’s a look at some notable adaptations that transpired from real-life horrors.

 

All Good Things

This film, featuring Ryan Gosling and Kirsten Dunst, draws inspiration from the life of the infamous Robert Durst. Directed by Andrew Jarecki, the 2010 film tells the unsettling tale of a real estate heir who became suspected and later convicted of multiple murders. Gosling and Dunst portray David Marks and Katie McCarthy, immersing the audience in a chilling narrative about wealth and deceit.

 

Changeling

Starring Angelina Jolie, this 2008 mystery drama recounts the harrowing true story of the 1928 Wineville Chicken Coop murders in California. The film follows Christine Collins, a devoted single mother who, unable to accept that her son had been murdered, launched an exhaustive search for him that persisted until her own death in 1964. The film features a strong supporting cast, including John Malkovich and Jeffrey Donovan, further enhancing its emotional depth.

 

Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story

This Netflix series, the first in the anthology titled “Monster,” delves into the life and crimes of one of America’s most notorious serial killers, Jeffrey Dahmer. Created by Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan, the series unfolds over ten episodes, chronicling Dahmer’s gruesome murders from 1978 to 1991. Evan Peters delivers a haunting performance as Dahmer, with Nick A. Fisher portraying the younger version of the killer.

 

Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile

Told from the perspective of Elizabeth “Liz” Kendall, Ted Bundy’s long-term girlfriend, this 2019 film details the chilling story of the notorious serial killer. Starring Zac Efron and Lily Collins, it explores Bundy’s life and the atrocities he confessed to before his execution. The film includes noteworthy performances from Jeffrey Donovan and Angela Sarafyan, bringing emotional complexity to the narrative.

 

Girl in Basement

Drawing inspiration from the Fritzl case that emerged in 2008, this Lifetime film portrays the heartbreaking and harrowing story of a young woman imprisoned by her father in their basement. Creator Elisabeth Röhm described the film as a call to action, urging society to confront the “monsters” that may reside within homes, often hidden by the complicity of family members.

 

Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story

Premiering in September, this series centers on the infamous siblings who murdered their parents, José and Kitty Menendez, in 1989. By presenting various perspectives surrounding the case, the series offers a comprehensive examination of the tragic events that transpired.

 

She Made Them Do It

Based on the real-life case of Sarah Jo Pender, this Lifetime film features Jenna Dewan and details Pender’s conviction for the murder of her roommates with her boyfriend’s assistance. Released in 2012, the film also highlights Pender’s daring escape from prison during her incarceration.

 

The Watcher

In this 2022 series, Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan take viewers through the eerie experiences of the Broaddus family after they purchased their dream home in June 2014. The story unfolds as unsettling letters from a mysterious “Watcher” prompt the family to reconsider their new purchase and ultimately decide to sell the property.

 

Woman of the Hour

Directed by Anna Kendrick, this film recounts the grim story of Rodney Alcala, infamously known as The Dating Game Killer. The film reflects on Alcala’s appearance on a television game show in 1978 amid his string of murders, bringing a chilling juxtaposition between entertainment and horror.

 

Zodiac

Based on the infamous Zodiac Killer of the late 1960s and early 1970s, this film follows law enforcement and investigators as they attempt to capture the elusive murderer. The narrative centers on their efforts to interpret the cryptic messages left behind by the killer, offering a captivating glimpse into one of the most notorious unsolved cases in American history.

 

These adaptations serve as a reminder of the dark realities that exist in society, captivating audiences with their haunting tales of crime and humanity.