5 Serial killer films worth watching

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Gruesome imagery and shock tactics aren't needed for a film of circumspection or depth.

M (1931)
"When the police in a German city are unable to catch a child-murderer, other criminals join in the manhunt."
A German drama set in Berlin and an absolute classic of 30's film; starring Peter Lorre and directed by Fritz Lang - he cited it as his favorite piece of work.




To Catch A Killer (1992)
" ... tells the true gruesome story of John Wayne Gacy - a good friend and helpful neighbour, a great child entertainer, a respectful businessman, and a violent serial killer who raped and murdered over 30 young boys."
A two-part TV series starring Brian Dennehy - who is truly chilling in his portrayal of Gacy. The focus is not on details of his crimes, but rather the investigation which led to Gacy's arrest. It's essentially the film version of the book "Killer Clown" by Terry Sullivan and Peter T. Maiken.


Citizen X (1995)
"Based on the true story of a Russian serial killer who ... claimed over 50 victims ... In what was then a Communist state, the police investigations were hampered by bureaucracy, incompetence and those in power. The story is told from the viewpoint of the detective in charge of the case."
An HBO film about Andrei Chikatilo, starring Donald Sutherland and Stephen Rea.




The Snowtown Murders (2011)
"Based on true events, 16 year-old Jamie falls in with his mother's new boyfriend and his crowd of self-appointed neighborhood watchmen, a relationship that leads to a spree of torture and murder."
A bleak and gritty Australian film, with a compelling performance by the cast (most of who were making debut performances). A charismatic man acts as a father-figure to a damaged family and draws them into serial murder. 


Appropriate Adult (2011)
"Dramatisation of the case of serial killers Fred and Rose West, focusing on the way in which they were brought to justice."
A two-part TV series starring Emily Watson and Dominic West. Based on the case of serial killers Fred and Rose West, it follows the perspective of a trainee social worker named Janet Leach who was asked to participate in witnessing confessions.