As we bid adieu to 2023, the true crime genre has once again left audiences on the edge of their seats with gripping tales of real-life mysteries and criminal investigations.
For all the true crime enthusiasts out there, we’ve curated a list of the top ten must-watch documentaries that have dominated the OTT platforms, including Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, throughout the year.
From the gritty underworld of Mumbai to international scandals, these shows promise to keep you hooked till the last episode.
1. Mumbai Mafia: Police Vs Underworld (Netflix)
- Directors: Raaghav Dar and Francis Longhurst
- A riveting documentary exploring the intense clashes between Mumbai Police and the notorious Indian mafia, led by Dawood Ibrahim and his associates. Dive deep into the operations of D-Company with firsthand accounts from Mumbai officers.
2. The Hunt for Veerapan (Netflix)
- Director: Selvamani Selvaraj
- Follow the gripping 20-year-long manhunt for the feared smuggler Veerapan in South India. Unravel the rise and fall of this notorious figure in a compelling docuseries.
3. Dancing on the Grave (Amazon Prime Video)
- Director: Patrick Graham
- Produced by India Today, this true crime series delves into the murder of Shakereh Khaleeli, an Indian real estate developer and philanthropist, in 90s Bangalore.
4. Victim/Suspect (Netflix)
- Investigative journalist Rae de Leon uncovers stories of young women who, after reporting sexual assault, find themselves charged with false reporting, arrested, and imprisoned. A chilling exploration of justice gone awry.
5. Ice Cold: Murder, Coffee and Jessica Wongso (International)
- Director: Rob Sixsmith
- This Indonesian-Singaporean documentary focuses on the 2016 murder of Wayan Mirna Salihin, allegedly perpetrated by her friend Jessica Wongso. Explore the unanswered questions surrounding the trial and Indonesia’s criminal justice system.
6. Murdaugh Murders: A Southern Scandal (International)
- A two-season series unraveling the legacy of the Murdaugh family in South Carolina. A fatal boating accident triggers a chain of events, exposing a century-long narrative of corruption, power, and cover-ups.
7. Madoff: The Monster of Wall Street (Netflix)
- A detailed exploration of financier Bernie Madoff’s rise and fall, orchestrating one of the largest Ponzi schemes in Wall Street’s history. Insights from various perspectives provide a comprehensive view of the scandal.
8. In the Name of God: A Holy Betrayal (Netflix)
- Delve into the eerie true accounts of four Korean leaders who proclaim themselves as prophets. This series unfolds the ominous aspects of unwavering belief across eight compelling episodes.
9. Bad Surgeon: Love Under the Knife (International)
- Expose one of the most significant frauds in recent medical history as this documentary investigates a renowned thoracic surgeon and the darker reality behind his groundbreaking contributions to regenerative medicine.
10. Till Murder Do Us Part: Soering vs. Haysom (Netflix)
Explore fresh insights into the 1985 murders of Elizabeth Haysom’s parents, questioning Jens Söring’s conviction. This true crime documentary sheds light on a complex romantic relationship that took a dark turn.
For a thrilling ride through the world of true crime, these documentaries offer a mix of suspense, drama, and real-life intrigue. As you prepare to wrap up 2023, grab your popcorn and immerse yourself in these gripping tales available on various OTT platforms.
Have any other recommendations? Share them with us on Instagram @peddlermedia.in. Happy binge-watching!