Serial Killer Movies Based On True Stories 2021

Okay, let's be real. We're all a little morbidly curious, right? Especially when it comes to true crime. And, let's face it, 2021 wasn't exactly sunshine and rainbows.

So, naturally, serial killer movies based on true stories were kinda… a thing. But did any of them actually deliver? That's the question.

The 2021 Serial Killer Movie Lineup: A Quick Look

I mean, technically, there probably weren't a ton that were directly released in 2021. It's more about the hype cycle. Release year is fluid, people!

Things Heard & Seen: Did you hear anything?

This one's a bit of a cheat. It's more like "creepy house hides dark secrets" than straight-up serial killer. Amanda Seyfried is great, though.

But seriously, that house. I wouldn't last five minutes. My unpopular opinion? Way too much focus on the ghosts and not enough on the suspense.

Ted Bundy: American Boogeyman: Another Ted?

Okay, okay, I know. Another Ted Bundy movie? Did we really need it? The answer is probably no.

Honestly, at this point, I think they are running out of creative juices, no? We get it, he was charming and awful. Next!

My thoughts about True Crime Movies Based on Real Events

Here's the deal: I have problems with movies that glorify killers. It happens all the time! Is entertainment worth possibly giving more notoriety to individuals who don't deserve it?

Sure, some true crime movies are respectful and focus on the victims. Those are the ones I can get behind. The rest?

A movie that feels exploitative? Hard pass.

The Unpopular Opinion Corner

Okay, time for some spicy takes. Ready?

A lot of these movies focus WAY too much on the killer's supposed motivations. Like, we need to understand why they did it.

Nah. I don't care. Some people are just awful. Give me the detective's perspective. Give me the victim's story!

Also, and this is a big one: enough with the gratuitous violence. I don't need to see every gruesome detail. I have an imagination, thank you very much. I'm not trying to have nightmares for a week.

My unpopular opinion? Less gore, more suspense! Hitchcock knew what he was doing. Why can't everyone else?

Let's be honest, are these movies entertainment or morbid curiosity? Is there a line?

The Verdict

So, did 2021 deliver any truly great serial killer movies based on true stories? Maybe. Depends on your definition of "great."

For me, a truly great one balances respect for the victims with compelling storytelling. It doesn't glorify the killer. And it doesn't rely on cheap scares.

Did I see that balance in the movies released that year? Not often enough. But hey, there's always next year! Or maybe, let's just watch something lighter.

Maybe...a rom-com? Now that's truly scary!

Disclaimer: This article is meant to be lighthearted and humorous. Serial killers are not a laughing matter. True crime is serious business and should be approached with sensitivity and respect.