Top True-Crime Movies Based on Real Criminal Events

Changeling (2008)

The 2008 movie Changeling, directed by Clint Eastwood, takes us back to 1928 when a mother's search for her missing son led to the discovery of the Wineville Chicken Coop Murders. Angelina Jolie's performance as Christine Collins is a standout in this gripping portrayal of a mother's fight for justice.

Angelina Jolie in Changeling

The movie sheds light on the political corruption and the mistreatment of mental health patients during the early 20th century. Changeling is widely praised for its historical accuracy and emotional depth, making it a must-watch for true crime enthusiasts.

Changeling (2008)

Can You Ever Forgive Me? (2018)

Based on the crimes of Lee Israel, the 2018 movie Can You Ever Forgive Me? stars Melissa McCarthy as the struggling writer who turned to literary fraud by forging letters from deceased celebrities. McCarthy's performance, along with Richard E. Grant's portrayal of her partner in crime, received high praise and earned McCarthy an Academy Award nomination.

Melissa McCarthy in Can You Ever Forgive Me

The movie is a fascinating and moving depiction of a writer's desperation and the lengths she took to revitalize her career. Can You Ever Forgive Me? delves into the world of literary fraud, offering a compelling narrative that captivates its audience.

Monster (2003)

Starring Charlize Theron as the infamous Aileen Wuornos, Monster chronicles the chilling story of the female serial killer who murdered several men while working as a prostitute. Theron's Academy Award-winning performance and Christina Ricci's portrayal of her lover capture the dark and thrilling world of drugs, prostitution, and murder.

Charlize Theron as Aileen Wuornos and Christina Ricci as Selby Wall on the poster for Monster

The movie offers a compelling insight into the sinister life of Aileen Wuornos, revealing the complexities of her character and the harrowing nature of her crimes. Monster is a haunting portrayal of one of the most infamous female serial killers in history.

All The President's Men (1976)

Based on the Watergate Scandal, All The President's Men brings to life the investigative journalism of Carl Bernstein and Bob Woodward as they uncover the infamous political scandal that rocked the White House. The movie, a critical success, won 4 Academy Awards and is regarded as one of the best political thrillers ever made.

Bob and Carl sitting down and looking in the same direction in All-the-President's-Men

The gripping narrative and stellar performances in All The President's Men make it a must-see for those interested in political intrigue and investigative reporting. The movie provides a riveting account of the events surrounding the Watergate scandal, offering a compelling insight into one of the most infamous political scandals in history.

Zodiac (2007)

Zodiac takes us back to the late 1960s, where America was terrorized by the infamous Zodiac Killer. The movie, starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Robert Downey Jr, and Mark Ruffalo, delves into the full-scale investigation launched to capture the elusive killer who taunted police with encrypted messages.

Robert Downey Jr's Paul Avery in 70s garb talking on the phone in a bustling newsroom in Zodiac

The haunting recreations of the killings and the fear that gripped the citizens during the killer's reign make Zodiac a compelling true-crime thriller. The movie received high acclaim for its attention to detail and accurate portrayal of the investigation.

The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)

Based on the scams and crimes of Jordan Belfort, The Wolf of Wall Street offers a humorous and dramatic insight into Belfort's fraudulent activities as a stockbroker. The movie, directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Jonah Hill, received widespread acclaim for its accurate portrayal of Belfort's life and crimes.

Leonardo DiCaprio as Jordan Belfort in The Wolf of Wall Street

The Wolf of Wall Street, while controversial for its language, broke records and left a lasting impression on audiences with its captivating storytelling and stellar performances. The movie provides an intriguing look into the world of financial fraud and excess.

the wolf of wall street

Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile

Inspired by the infamous crimes of Ted Bundy, Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile stars Zac Efron as Bundy and offers a chilling portrayal of the notorious serial killer. While the movie received a mixed response, Efron's depiction of Bundy was widely acclaimed for its chilling accuracy.

Zac Efron as Ted Bundy

The movie delves into Bundy's facade as a charming boyfriend and the impact of his crimes, offering a compelling exploration of one of the most evil killers in history. Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile provides a captivating insight into the dark and chilling world of Ted Bundy.

Catch Me If You Can (2002)

Catch Me If You Can follows the remarkable story of Frank Abagnale, a notorious con artist who successfully posed as a pilot, teacher, lawyer, and doctor, evading capture by the FBI. Directed by Stephen Spielberg and starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hanks, the movie is celebrated for its humorous and captivating portrayal of Abagnale's cons and the FBI's pursuit.

Leonardo DiCaprio with flight attendants in Catch Me If You Can

The movie offers a thrilling account of one of the world's most successful con artists, with standout performances from DiCaprio and Hanks. Catch Me If You Can is a captivating and entertaining true-crime story that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.

Leonardo DiCaprio as Frank Abagnale in Catch Me If You Can

The Bling Ring (2013)

Directed by Sofia Coppola, The Bling Ring explores the high-profile robberies committed by a group of fame-obsessed teenagers in California. The movie, based on real events, offers an accurate depiction of the robberies and the media attention received by the criminal gang.

The Bling Ring

The Bling Ring received high praise for its cast, screenplay, and portrayal of the criminals' obsession with celebrity lifestyles. Sofia Coppola's direction and the captivating narrative make The Bling Ring a must-watch for those intrigued by high-profile criminal events.