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True crime documentaries possess an unique allure, captivating audiences globally with a resonance few genres achieve. From Making a Murderer to The Staircase, these narratives draw viewers into the shocking and horrific truths they reveal, often leaving us yearning for more. But what is it about these real-life mysteries that captivates millions?

Rise of True Crime Documentaries

The introduction of streaming platforms revolutionised true crime documentaries’ reach, making them widely accessible. Platforms like Netflix have facilitated their rise, as viewers binge-watch episodes and develop an appetite for real-life mysteries. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, demand for true crime has surged, with more people immersing themselves in these mysteries during lockdown. For many, these documentaries’ immersive storytelling and intricate narratives offered a compelling form of escapism.

Thrill of Mystery

True crime documentaries provide the perfect blend of intrigue and escapism, inviting viewers to follow detectives in their pursuit of the truth. The stories grip audiences, making us wonder about the motives behind these crimes while also showcasing detectives’ perseverance amid hurdles and dead ends.

These true-story narratives offer a thrill unmatched by fictional crime dramas, featuring real people behind notorious cases—from detectives to perpetrators. Megan Robbins, a psychology professor at the University of California, said: “True crime stories activate our fight-or-flight response in a controlled environment. We get to experience the thrill of danger without actually being in harm’s way.”

Impact of Social Media

Although the fascination with real-life mysteries is not new, social media has amplified this obsession, providing a platform to debate, share theories, and unearth new information. Online communities of “online sleuths”, drive interest in ongoing or cold cases, while streaming platforms release new documentaries on prolific killers, fuelling the genre’s growth.

These documentaries also transcend entertainment by highlighting injustices and exposing flaws within the criminal justice system. For instance, renewed public interest in the Menendez brothers’ case, spurred by the docudrama Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story and a related documentary, led to the case being reopened for potential resentencing.

A Cultural Phenomenon

The true crime genre has become a cultural phenomenon, with these macabre documentaries becoming a mainstream staple. Many eagerly await the next mystery release on streaming platforms, making it a popular topic of conversation. Online communities further amplify these documentaries’ cultural impact, uniting people to delve deeper into these mysteries.

These documentaries also bring attention to underrepresented issues and drive societal change, underscoring the cultural significance they can have. Perhaps our collective fascination with this genre arises from an intrinsic desire to see justice served—watching as evil is uncovered, confronted, and ultimately punished.