We all feel nervous during thriller scenes in movies. Nail-biting or squeezing ourselves are common reactions to the tension. Don’t say “it doesn’t happen to me”—you’re not alone! The best movies that make you feel this tension are serial killer movies. However, many serial killer movies exaggerate the plot, leaving much to be desired. But what about movies adapted from real serial killer stories? Knowing these events actually happened adds an extra layer of excitement. Here are the top real serial killer movies that will leave you both thrilled and shocked:
1.Chugyeogja
We kick off our list with Deadly Pursuit, based on the story of South Korean serial killer Yoo Young-chul. The movie follows Joong Ho, a former police officer turned womanizer who only cares about money. Everything seems to be going well for Joong Ho until the women who work for him start disappearing. Furious and determined, Joong Ho discovers that all the missing women were contacted by the same customer. When another woman is sent to meet this mysterious client, Joong Ho decides to take matters into his own hands to solve the case.
Chugyeogja (The Chaser) (2008)
- Director: Na Hong-jin
- Cast: Kim Yoon-seok (Jung-ho), Ha Jung-woo (Young-min), Seo Young-hee (Mi-jin), Kim Yoo-jung (Eun-ji)
- Release Year: 2008
- Duration: 125 minutes
- Country: South Korea
- Genre: Action, Crime, Drama
- Language: Korean
- Age Rating: Not Rated
- Available Platforms: Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, Google Play Movies
- IMDb Rating: 7.8
- Similar Movies: Memories of Murder, Oldboy, I Saw the Devil
- Trailer: The Chaser Official Trailer
- IMDb Link: Chugyeogja (2008) – IMDb
2.The Silence of the Lambs
This iconic movie, adapted from real-life interactions between criminology professor Robert Keppel and serial killer Ted Bundy, is a masterpiece of the thriller genre. Clarice Starling (Jodie Foster), an FBI trainee, dives into the twisted mind of Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins), a former psychiatrist turned cannibalistic murderer. Starling seeks Lecter’s help to catch another serial killer, but their interaction takes a dark turn, leading to Lecter’s escape.
Not only did this movie win the Oscar for Best Picture, but Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins also earned Academy Awards for their unforgettable performances.
The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
- Director: Jonathan Demme
- Cast: Jodie Foster (Clarice Starling), Anthony Hopkins (Dr. Hannibal Lecter), Scott Glenn (Jack Crawford), Ted Levine (Buffalo Bill)
- Release Year: 1991
- Duration: 118 minutes
- Country: United States
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
- Language: English
- Age Rating: R (Restricted)
- Available Platforms: Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, Google Play Movies
- IMDb Rating: 8.6
- Similar Movies: Seven, Zodiac, Hannibal
- Trailer: The Silence of the Lambs Official Trailer
- IMDb Link: The Silence of the Lambs (1991) – IMDb
3.Changeling
Starring Angelina Jolie, Changeling is a heartbreaking true story. Christine Collins, a telephone operator, faces every parent’s nightmare when her son, Walter, goes missing. Months later, the police claim to have found Walter and reunite him with Christine for a publicity stunt. However, Christine knows deep down that the boy is not her son. Her struggle to uncover the truth reveals a sinister conspiracy and keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
Changeling (2008)
- Director: Clint Eastwood
- Cast: Angelina Jolie (Christine Collins), John Malkovich (Rev. Briegleb), Jeffrey Donovan (Capt. J.J. Jones), Michael Kelly (Detective Lester Ybarra)
- Release Year: 2008
- Duration: 141 minutes
- Country: United States
- Genre: Biography, Crime, Drama
- Language: English
- Age Rating: R (Restricted)
- Available Platforms: Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, Google Play Movies
- IMDb Rating: 7.7
- Similar Movies: Mystic River, Zodiac, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
- Trailer: Changeling Official Trailer
- IMDb Link: Changeling (2008) – IMDb
4.Monster
Monster tells the story of Aileen Wuornos, known as the world’s first female serial killer. Between 1989 and 1990, Wuornos killed multiple men, claiming it was in self-defense. She was convicted for 7 murders in 1992 and executed in 2003. Charlize Theron’s Academy Award-winning portrayal of Wuornos showcases the psychological trauma and complexity behind her actions.
Monster (2003)
- Director: Patty Jenkins
- Cast: Charlize Theron (Aileen Wuornos), Christina Ricci (Selby Wall), Bruce Dern (Thomas), Lee Tergesen (Vincent Corey)
- Release Year: 2003
- Duration: 109 minutes
- Country: United States, Germany
- Genre: Biography, Crime, Drama
- Language: English
- Age Rating: R (Restricted)
- Available Platforms: Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, Google Play Movies
- IMDb Rating: 7.3
- Similar Movies: Boys Don’t Cry, Changeling, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
- Trailer: Monster Official Trailer
- IMDb Link: Monster (2003) – IMDb
5.Blood Work
Directed by and starring Clint Eastwood, Blood Work centers around retired FBI agent Terry McCaleb, who is recovering from a heart transplant. When the sister of the murder victim who saved his life asks for his help, McCaleb sets out to solve the case. His journey uncovers a web of deceit and danger that will keep viewers captivated.
Blood Work (2002)
- Director: Clint Eastwood
- Cast: Clint Eastwood (Terry McCaleb), Jeff Daniels (Buddy Noone), Anjelica Huston (Dr. Bonnie Fox), Wanda De Jesus (Graciella Rivers)
- Release Year: 2002
- Duration: 110 minutes
- Country: United States
- Genre: Action, Crime, Drama
- Language: English
- Age Rating: R (Restricted)
- Available Platforms: Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, Google Play Movies
- IMDb Rating: 6.4
- Similar Movies: Mystic River, Absolute Power, True Crime
- Trailer: Blood Work Official Trailer
- IMDb Link: Blood Work (2002) – IMDb
6.Zodiac
Based on the unsolved case of the Zodiac Killer, this movie is a chilling depiction of a murderer who terrorized the west coast of the USA in the 1960s and 70s. Starring Jake Gyllenhaal as cartoonist Robert Graysmith, the movie focuses on his obsession with cracking the Zodiac’s cryptic messages. The tension, unpredictability, and gripping narrative make this a must-watch for fans of true crime stories.
Zodiac (2007)
- Director: David Fincher
- Cast: Jake Gyllenhaal (Robert Graysmith), Mark Ruffalo (Inspector David Toschi), Robert Downey Jr. (Paul Avery), Anthony Edwards (Inspector William Armstrong)
- Release Year: 2007
- Duration: 157 minutes
- Country: United States
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery
- Language: English
- Age Rating: R (Restricted)
- Available Platforms: Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, Google Play Movies
- IMDb Rating: 7.7
- Similar Movies: Seven, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, The Silence of the Lambs
- Trailer: Zodiac Official Trailer
- IMDb Link: Zodiac (2007) – IMDb
7.Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer
This movie explores the life of Henry Lee Lucas, a notorious serial killer. The plot follows Henry and his psychopathic friend Otis as they embark on a killing spree for the sheer thrill of it. Directed by John McNaughton, the movie is dark, disturbing, and brutally realistic, offering a glimpse into the depravity of a killer’s mind.
Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer (1986)
- Director: John McNaughton
- Cast: Michael Rooker (Henry), Tracy Arnold (Becky), Tom Towles (Otis), Mary Demas (Dead Woman)
- Release Year: 1986
- Duration: 83 minutes
- Country: United States
- Genre: Biography, Crime, Drama
- Language: English
- Age Rating: Not Rated
- Available Platforms: Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, Google Play Movies
- IMDb Rating: 7.0
- Similar Movies: Monster, The House That Jack Built, Maniac
- Trailer: Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer Official Trailer
- IMDb Link: Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer (1986) – IMDb
8.Evilenko
Set in Kiev in 1984, Evilenko recounts the horrifying crimes of Soviet serial killer Andrey Chikatilo. Andrej Romanovich Evilenko, a former teacher, loses his job after attempting to assault a student. Consumed by his dark urges, he embarks on a spree of murders that shocks the nation. This movie dives deep into his twisted psyche, offering a disturbing yet compelling watch.
Evilenko (2004)
- Director: David Grieco
- Cast: Malcolm McDowell (Andrej Romanovich Evilenko), Marton Csokas (Vadim Timurouvic Lesiev), Ronald Pickup (Bukhanovsky)
- Release Year: 2004
- Duration: 111 minutes
- Country: Italy
- Genre: Biography, Crime, Drama
- Language: English
- Age Rating: R (Restricted)
- Available Platforms: Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies
- IMDb Rating: 6.2
- Similar Movies: Citizen X, Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer, Zodiac
- Trailer: Evilenko Official Trailer
- IMDb Link: Evilenko (2004) – IMDb
9.Snowtown
Based on the Snowtown Murders, this Australian movie follows 16-year-old Jamie, who lives in Adelaide with his family. Desperate for a way out of his bleak life, Jamie finds solace in a man named John. But John is far from a savior—he manipulates Jamie into joining his world of crime, leading to one of the most harrowing murder sprees in Australian history.
Snowtown (2011)
- Director: Justin Kurzel
- Cast: Lucas Pittaway (Jamie), Daniel Henshall (John Bunting), Louise Harris (Elizabeth Harvey)
- Release Year: 2011
- Duration: 119 minutes
- Country: Australia
- Genre: Biography, Crime, Drama
- Language: English
- Age Rating: Not Rated
- Available Platforms: Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, Google Play Movies
- IMDb Rating: 6.6
- Similar Movies: Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer, Monster, Zodiac
- Trailer: Snowtown Official Trailer
- IMDb Link: Snowtown (2011) – IMDb
10.Natural Born Killers
Starring Juliette Lewis and Woody Harrelson, this movie explores the dark love story of Mallory and Mickey Knox, a couple who embark on a killing spree after Mallory murders her abusive parents. Their gruesome journey becomes a media sensation, reflecting society’s morbid fascination with violence. This cult classic is a thought-provoking addition to the list of real serial killer movies.
Natural Born Killers (1994)
- Director: Oliver Stone
- Cast: Woody Harrelson (Mickey Knox), Juliette Lewis (Mallory Knox), Robert Downey Jr. (Wayne Gale), Tommy Lee Jones (Dwight McClusky)
- Release Year: 1994
- Duration: 118 minutes
- Country: United States
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
- Language: English
- Age Rating: R (Restricted)
- Available Platforms: Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, Google Play Movies
- IMDb Rating: 7.3
- Similar Movies: Pulp Fiction, Bonnie and Clyde, The Devil’s Rejects
- Trailer: Natural Born Killers Official Trailer
- IMDb Link: Natural Born Killers (1994) – IMDb
11.The Texas Chain Saw Massacre
Inspired by the crimes of Wisconsin serial killer Ed Gein, this movie is a landmark in horror history. The story follows two siblings, Sally and Franklin, who travel to their grandfather’s farmhouse with friends. After picking up a hitchhiker, the group encounters a chainsaw-wielding killer known as Leatherface. This terrifying classic has influenced countless other serial killer movies.
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)
- Director: Tobe Hooper
- Cast: Marilyn Burns (Sally Hardesty), Edwin Neal (Hitchhiker), Gunnar Hansen (Leatherface), Allen Danziger (Jerry)
- Release Year: 1974
- Duration: 83 minutes
- Country: United States
- Genre: Horror
- Language: English
- Age Rating: R (Restricted)
- Available Platforms: Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, Google Play Movies
- IMDb Rating: 7.5
- Similar Movies: Halloween, The Hills Have Eyes, Evil Dead
- Trailer: The Texas Chain Saw Massacre Official Trailer
- IMDb Link: The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974) – IMDb
12.No Country for Old Men
Winner of the Oscar for Best Picture, No Country for Old Men introduces us to the ruthless killer Anton Chigurh (played by Javier Bardem). When Llewellyn Moss stumbles upon a drug deal gone wrong, he unwittingly becomes Chigurh’s target. Bardem’s chilling performance earned him an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor, making this a standout in the genre.
No Country for Old Men (2007)
- Director: Ethan Coen, Joel Coen
- Cast: Tommy Lee Jones (Ed Tom Bell), Javier Bardem (Anton Chigurh), Josh Brolin (Llewelyn Moss)
- Release Year: 2007
- Duration: 122 minutes
- Country: United States
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
- Language: English
- Age Rating: R (Restricted)
- Available Platforms: Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, Google Play Movies
- IMDb Rating: 8.1
- Similar Movies: Fargo, The Hateful Eight, There Will Be Blood
- Trailer: No Country for Old Men Official Trailer
- IMDb Link: No Country for Old Men (2007) – IMDb
13.True Story
Starring Jonah Hill and James Franco, this movie chronicles the unsettling relationship between journalist Michael Finkel and accused murderer Christian Longo. After being fired for fabricating a story, Finkel is drawn into Longo’s web of lies and manipulation as he seeks to uncover the truth behind the murder charges.
True Story (2015)
- Director: Rupert Goold
- Cast: Jonah Hill (Michael Finkel), James Franco (Christian Longo), Felicity Jones (Jill Barker)
- Release Year: 2015
- Duration: 99 minutes
- Country: United States
- Genre: Biography, Crime, Drama
- Language: English
- Age Rating: R (Restricted)
- Available Platforms: Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, Google Play Movies
- IMDb Rating: 6.3
- Similar Movies: The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Changeling, Zodiac
- Trailer: True Story Official Trailer
- IMDb Link: True Story (2015) – IMDb
14.Wolf Creek
Inspired by real-life events in the Australian outback, Wolf Creek follows three friends on a road trip to Wolf Creek National Park. When their car breaks down, a seemingly friendly local offers help. However, the situation quickly turns into a nightmare as the group becomes trapped in a fight for survival.
Wolf Creek (2005)
- Director: Greg McLean
- Cast: John Jarratt (Mick Taylor), Cassandra Magrath (Liz Hunter), Kestie Morassi (Kristy Earl)
- Release Year: 2005
- Duration: 99 minutes
- Country: Australia
- Genre: Horror, Thriller
- Language: English
- Age Rating: R (Restricted)
- Available Platforms: Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, Google Play Movies
- IMDb Rating: 6.2
- Similar Movies: The Hills Have Eyes, Hostel, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre
- Trailer: Wolf Creek Official Trailer
- IMDb Link: Wolf Creek (2005) – IMDb
15.Mr. Brooks
Starring Kevin Costner, this psychological thriller explores the dual life of Mr. Brooks, a successful businessman with a dark addiction to killing. With the encouragement of his alter ego, he resumes his murderous activities, only to be blackmailed by a photographer who catches him in the act. The movie dives deep into the twisted mind of a killer who tries to balance his two conflicting worlds.
Mr. Brooks (2007)
- Director: Bruce A. Evans
- Cast: Kevin Costner (Earl Brooks), Demi Moore (Detective Tracy Atwood), Dane Cook (Mr. Smith), William Hurt (Marshall)
- Release Year: 2007
- Duration: 120 minutes
- Country: United States
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
- Language: English
- Age Rating: R (Restricted)
- Available Platforms: Amazon Prime Video, iTunes, Google Play Movies
- IMDb Rating: 7.3
- Similar Movies: American Psycho, Se7en, The Bone Collector
- Trailer: Mr. Brooks Official Trailer
- IMDb Link: Mr. Brooks (2007) – IMDb
16.Ed Gein
This movie delves into the life of Ed Gein, whose crimes inspired iconic fictional killers like Norman Bates and Leatherface. The story explores Gein’s troubled childhood under the influence of his domineering and religious mother, shedding light on the factors that led to his descent into madness.
Ed Gein (2000)
- Director: Chuck Parello
- Cast: Steve Railsback (Ed Gein), Carrie Snodgress (Augusta Gein), Carol Mansell (Collette Marshall)
- Release Year: 2000
- Duration: 89 minutes
- Country: United States
- Genre: Biography, Crime, Drama
- Language: English
- Age Rating: R (Restricted)
- Available Platforms: Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies
- IMDb Rating: 5.5
- Similar Movies: Deranged, Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre
- Trailer: Ed Gein Official Trailer
- IMDb Link: Ed Gein (2000) – IMDb
These true crime movies stand out for their gripping narratives and unsettling realism. Each one offers a unique glimpse into the minds of infamous killers, making them unforgettable for fans of the genre.
Which of these real serial killer movies will you dare to watch next?
