Crime documentaries are a popular genre for many viewers who enjoy real-life mysteries, shocking twists, and gripping stories. If you’re a fan of crime stories, there are plenty of documentaries to watch that will keep you on the edge of your seat. In this post, we’ll explore the best crime documentaries to watch in 2025. These documentaries will captivate you and make you think deeply about justice, crime, and the human condition.
1. The Making of a Murderer
One of the best crime documentaries to watch is Making a Murderer. This documentary follows the life of Steven Avery, a man who was wrongfully convicted of a crime, only to later be accused of a new crime. With shocking twists and turns, Making a Murderer explores the flaws in the justice system, making you question the idea of fairness and truth.
Why You Should Watch It
Making a Murderer is not only compelling, but it also raises important questions about the legal system. It’s a deep dive into the criminal justice process, showing how things can go wrong. Whether you believe Steven Avery is guilty or innocent, this documentary will make you think.

2. The Staircase
Another great crime documentary to watch is The Staircase. This documentary examines the case of Michael Peterson, a man accused of murdering his wife, Kathleen. The series shows the investigation and trial in great detail, offering a closer look at the legal process. The more you watch, the more you start to wonder about the truth.
Why You Should Watch It
The Staircase is a fascinating case of potential murder with many layers of mystery. It presents an in-depth view of the trial and investigation, showing the emotional and legal struggles Peterson faces. It’s one of the best crime documentaries to watch if you’re interested in the complexities of a murder case and the possibility of a miscarriage of justice.
3. Making a Murderer: Season 2
If you were hooked by Making a Murderer season one, then you will definitely want to watch season two. This follow-up to the original series looks deeper into Steven Avery’s case. It offers new evidence, new interviews, and even more shocking twists. As the story continues, new questions arise about whether Avery is truly guilty.
Why You Should Watch It
The second season of Making a Murderer digs deeper into the mystery, showing how Avery and his legal team continue to fight for his freedom. If you’re a fan of true crime, this season will keep you glued to your screen.
4. The Confession Tapes
If you’re interested in cases where suspects confess to crimes they may not have committed, The Confession Tapes is a must-watch. This series covers different real-life crime cases where people confess to crimes under suspicious circumstances. Some confessors later claim they were coerced or pressured into admitting guilt.
Why You Should Watch It
The Confession Tapes brings to light the troubling issue of false confessions. It’s a great choice if you’re curious about how and why people confess to crimes they didn’t commit. Each case is a puzzle that leaves you questioning the truth.
5. Killer Inside: The Mind of Aaron Hernandez
If you’re looking for a crime documentary that dives into the mind of a criminal, Killer Inside: The Mind of Aaron Hernandez is one of the best crime documentaries to watch. This documentary explores the rise and fall of Aaron Hernandez, a famous football player who was convicted of murder. It takes a deep look at his life, his relationships, and his actions leading to the crime.
Why You Should Watch It
This documentary is a deep dive into the psychology of a person who committed such a violent crime despite having a successful career. It explores themes of mental health, toxic masculinity, and the consequences of a troubled past. It’s thought-provoking and gripping.
6. Wild Wild Country
For a mix of crime and cults, Wild Wild Country is a documentary you won’t want to miss. The story follows the rise of the Rajneeshpuram commune, led by the controversial guru Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh. What starts as a peaceful commune soon becomes a story of criminal activity, corruption, and violence.
Why You Should Watch It
Wild Wild Country combines crime with a fascinating look into the psychology of cults. It’s an eye-opening story about power, control, and manipulation. Watching it will make you think about how far some people will go for power, and how it can lead to criminal acts.
7. The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst
If you love mysteries and high-profile crimes, The Jinx is a documentary to watch. It tells the story of Robert Durst, a millionaire accused of multiple murders. The documentary shows how Durst was involved in strange circumstances, and in the final episode, a shocking twist leaves viewers stunned.
Why You Should Watch It
The combination of a high-profile case, shocking twists, and a finale that changes everything makes The Jinx one of the best crime documentaries to watch. It’s a fascinating look into a man who may have committed multiple murders, and the chilling final reveal makes it unforgettable.
Conclusion: Crime Documentaries That Will Keep You Hooked
Crime documentaries give us a glimpse into real-life mysteries, legal battles, and the complexities of the human mind. The best crime documentaries to watch will leave you questioning what’s true and what isn’t. Whether it’s wrongful convictions, cults, or shocking murders, these documentaries have something for everyone. Grab your popcorn, sit back, and prepare to be hooked by these intriguing true-crime stories.