The widespread popularity of serial killer films like Hannibal, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, Saw, Halloween, and others demonstrate people’s fascination with tales centered around psychopathic killers and macabre narratives. While serial killer films may be sickening or disturbing, there is an undeniable allure in watching these deranged murderers systematically target their victims, even as they justify their actions with irrational reasons. It is not that viewers approve of their aberrant behaviors, but there is that certain intrigue that lies in observing these gruesome acts from the comfort of their own homes.
For those who love to indulge in these dark tales for the fear and excitement they evoke, Netflix has as excellent a selection of serial killer films as they do hit serial killer documentary miniseries. From knife-wielding, masked murderers to cults engaging in sacrifice, this streamer has a wide variety of grim killer flicks. Considering they’ve brought in folks like David Fincher to direct in-house serial killer movies, for some of the following entries Netflix is the only place viewers are going to find them.
Updated on October 30, 2024: This article has been updated with additional content to keep the discussion fresh and relevant with even more information and new entries.
23 The Abandoned (2023)
The Abandoned, a film chronicling a string of gruesome murders, has been referred to as a must-watch and has gone on to be nominated for a noteworthy 12 Taipei Film Awards. With a cast comprising Janine Chun-Ning Chang, Ethan Juan, and An Shun Yu, the film made its debut in September 2023. The Abandoned is directed by Tseng Ying-ting.
A Classic Thriller Delving Into the Mind of a Killer
The Abandoned begins with a foiled suicide attempt by police officer Wu Jie. Instead of taking her own life, she is led to the body of a woman washed ashore. The unidentified body has both a finger and her heart missing. With a fair share of action and drama, the film delves into the mind of a serial killer who hunts victims who are illegally in the country, thus making them easy prey.
Making the film one of the best on Netflix is the fact that, in addition to chronicling the acts of the killer, focusing more on his mental state than the acts of killing itself, The Abandoned also sheds light onto the plight of immigrant workers who are employed for the most minuscule wages.
22 The Clovehitch Killer (2018)
Release Date November 16, 2018
Director Duncan Skiles
Runtime 110
Writers Christopher D. Ford
Dylan McDermott delivered a spine-tingling performance in the coming-of-age thriller The Clovehitch Killer, which takes inspiration from the life of real-life serial killer Dennis Radar, who notoriously became known as the BTK Killer. Set in a small Kentucky town, the gripping film follows 16-year-old Tyler Burnside (Charlie Plummer) as he comes to the horrific realization that his devout Christian father Don (McDermott) may actually be an infamous serial killer who brutally murdered ten women before disappearing over a decade prior.
A Deeply Unsettling Slow Burn
After he discovers disturbing photographs in his father’s personal possessions, Tyler starts to suspect that the man he always looked up to could be capable of unfathomable evil, prompting the teenager to launch a secret investigation into the dangerous killer. The Clovehitch Killer is a slow burn that expertly builds up tension and fear as Tyler gets closer to discovering the truth, with McDermott serving up a deeply unsettling and ominous portrayal. Horror legend Stephen King accurately called the thriller “unbearably suspenseful” and “(n)ot for the faint of heart”.
21 The Little Things (2021)
Kern County Deputy Sheriff Joe Deacon is sent to Los Angeles in the search for a serial killer who is terrorizing the city. Starring Denzel Washington, Jared Leto, and Rami Malek.
Release Date January 29, 2021
Runtime 2hr 8min
Touting a star-studded ensemble cast led by Denzel Washington, Rami Malek, and Jared Leto, the neo-noir psychological thriller The Little Things takes places in Los Angeles during the early 1990s where determined detectives Joe “Deke” Deacon (Washington) and James “Jimmy” Baxter (Malek) join forces to hunt down a serial killer terrorizing the city and murdering innocent women. The lawman’s investigation leads them to suspect that a peculiar loner (Leto) could be the culprit responsible, leading to a taut cat-and-mouse game to unfold.
Washington & Leto Square Off On-Screen
Despite failing to make a significant splash at the box office or with critics, The Little Things nonetheless garnered appreciation for its gritty neo-noir feel and complex performances, with Washington unsurprisingly dazzling as a haunted detective on a relentless mission to catch the elusive killer. Leto nabbed a Golden Globe nomination for his creepy and disquieting role in the atmospheric thriller, which does require patience by its viewers as its many twists and turns eventually come to a stunning conclusion.
20 Halloween (2018)
Release Date October 18, 2018
One of Hollywood’s most iconic villains made his epic return to the silver screen in David Gordon Green’s slasher extravaganza Halloween, which serves as a direct sequel to the 1978 John Carpenter masterpiece and focuses on the PTSD-plagued final girl Laurie Strode (Jamie Lee Curtis) as she is once again forced to have a frightening showdown with the relentless and silent serial killer Michael Myers. After being institutionalized at a psychiatric hospital for forty years, Michael escapes and makes his bloody return to Haddonfield on Halloween night.
Laurie & Michael Face Off After 40 Years
Fans of the pulse-pounding horror franchise were thrilled when it was announced that both the character and Curtis would be making a long-awaited comeback, with the gory flick being the first installment in the chilling trilogy. Halloween grossed over $259 million and was celebrated for breathing new life into the floundering franchise, with many deeming it a worthy new entry and true return to form that brilliantly captured the essence and terror of the original Carpenter classics.
19 The Woman in the Window (2021)
An agoraphobic woman living alone in New York begins spying on her new neighbors, only to witness a disturbing act of violence. Starring Amy Adams and Gary Oldman.
Release Date May 14, 2021
Runtime 1hr 40min
Writers A.J. Finn , Tracy Letts
Golden Globe-winner Amy Adams starred as an agoraphobic-afflicted woman who witnesses a gruesome crime committed by her neighbors in the taut psychological thriller The Woman in the Window, in which she is joined by fellow acting greats Gary Oldman, Julianne Moore, and Fred Hechinger. Struggling child psychologist Anna Fox finds herself fixated on the seemingly perfect family across the street, only to spiral out of control after she accidentally sees their matriarch violently stabbed and murdered in their home.
Adams Saves a Run-of-the-Mill Thriller
Based on the A.J. Finn’s bestselling novel of the same name, The Woman in the Window chronicles Anna’s descent into chaos as she begins to question whether or not what she saw truly happened or if it was a figment of her imagination as a result of her mental disorder. Though the thriller attracted a less-than-glowing critical reception, Adams’ portrayal of a desperate and unwell woman targeted by a serial killer was commended, with CBR noting in their review, “Given her track record of phenomenal performances, it’s no surprise the six-time Oscar nominee easily occupies the center of the story.”
18 Mrs. Serial Killer (2020)
A crime film with a novel twist, Mrs. Serial Killer follows the wife of an alleged serial killer as she goes to extreme lengths for her husband. An Indian crime film that keeps up Netflix’s Bollywood partnership, it was produced by legendary Bollywood filmmaker, Farah Khan, and stars the popular Sri Lankan model and actress, Jacqueline Fernandez.
A Brilliantly Twisty Plot
Fernandez plays a woman named Sona who’s married to a doctor and pregnant with his child. With a serial killing murderer on the loose in the area, a police officer links the cases of six missing women to Sona’s husband. He’s arrested and the town’s people soon all lose respect and turn on him. Sona believes her husband is being framed by the officer since she once rejected his love In favor of her husband. In desperation to save her husband, the pair concoct a plan for Sona to murder another woman in the same manner as the serial killer while he’s in jail, effectively clearing his name.
17 The Weekend Away (2022)
The Weekend Away begins like a typical girls’ trip, as best friends, Beth and Kate, embark on a vacation in Croatia. However, suspense and terror suddenly take hold of both viewers and Beth, when her friend suddenly goes missing. Accused of killing her best friend, Beth must do everything in her power to uncover the truth.
Tense, Engaging, and Tonally Interesting
The film contrasts the beautiful backdrop of Croatia with a dark murder mystery to deliver a visually stunning and engaging film. While some find the film to be filled with clichés, others believe it is a solid mystery that is worth watching. With a concise 90-minute runtime, the movie presents lots of twists that keep viewers tensed and guessing all the way. Leighton Meester does an amazing job portraying the vulnerable friend accused of killing her best friend.
16 Twin Murders: The Silence of the White City (2019)
The Spanish thriller film, Twin Murders: The Silence of the White City, is directed by Daniel Calparsoro and based on the novel of the same name by Eva García Sáenz de Urturi. Set in the city of Vitoria-Gasteiz in Spain, it revolves around Inspector Unai López de Ayala (Javier Rey) who finds himself immersed in a chilling investigation. A series of grisly murders plague the city, and he must halt this reign of terror.
A Suitably Uncomfortable Viewing Experience
While not necessarily the most groundbreaking or original entry in the serial killer genre or police procedural movies, this crime thriller has ample suspense and drama to keep many entertained. Despite its shortcomings, the film boasts stunning visuals and a compelling storyline. For those who enjoy films that showcase the inner workings of criminal minds and the intricacies of police work, this thrilling film can be found on Netflix.
15 There’s Someone Inside Your House (2021)
Directed by Patrick Brice (of Creep fame) and based on the 2017 novel of the same by Stephanie Perkins, There’s Someone Inside Your House is a slasher film that follows a young girl, Makani Young, who moves from Hawaii to a quiet, small town in Nebraska to finish high school. However, she soon discovers that a masked killer is targeting her classmates, each harboring dark secrets. To avoid becoming the killer’s next victim, Makani Young must unveil the killer’s identity.
Comfortable Viewing for Slasher Fans
While this serial killer flick offers a thrilling high school horror experience, some may find it a repetition of other classic horror films. Despite its over-used storyline and predictability, it serves as a fun watch reminiscent of ’90s films like Scream, I Know What You Did Last Summer, and others. Despite the negative reviews it has garnered, it is bound to entertain horror enthusiasts.
14 Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile (2019)
Release Date January 26, 2019
Runtime 110 Minutes
Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile follows the seemingly innocent romance between Liz (Lily Collins) and Ted (Zack Effron) while she remains unaware of the fact that he preys on young women. Efron delivers an exceptional performance, effortlessly portraying Ted’s charm and charisma, making it almost easy to fall under his spell. However, as the film progresses, the true nature of Bundy is gradually revealed, sending shivers down the spine of viewers.
Exploring the Sinister Life of Tedy Bundy
The film offers a fresh perspective on the story of the notorious American serial killer Ted Bundy through the eyes of his girlfriend and also focuses on the devastating impact his crimes had on those closest to him. This biographical drama is directed by Joe Berlinger and based on the 1981 book The Phantom Prince: My Life with Ted Bundy by Elizabeth Kendall, Ted Bundy’s ex-girlfriend.
13 In the Shadow of the Moon (2019)
In the Shadow of the Moon (2019)
In 1988, a police officer is hungry to become a detective and begins tracking a serial killer who resurfaces every nine years. But when the killer’s crimes defy all scientific explanation, the officer’s obsession threatens to destroy everything.
Release Date September 27, 2019
Director Jim Mickle
Runtime 1h 55m
In the Shadow of the Moon is a gripping and suspenseful film that keeps viewers guessing until the very end. It masterfully combines the elements of mystery and science fiction as it revolves around a detective consumed by an obsession to solve a series of brutal and strange murders spanning over a decade.
A Hidden Gem on Netflix
While this sci-fi thriller has its flaws, its undeniable intrigue lies in the abundance of twists and turns, ensuring viewers are thoroughly entertained. While there are those who criticize it for its plot holes, others regard it as a rare gem, unlike anything ever seen before. It is a tantalizing mash-up of different genres, encompassing elements of police procedural, sci-fi, and crime thriller, all skillfully directed. It is a serial killer film well worth checking out on Netflix.
12 The Pale Blue Eye (2022)
Follows a veteran detective who investigates the murders, helped by a detail-oriented young cadet who will later become a world famous author, Edgar Allan Poe. Starring Christian Bale.
Release Date January 6, 2023
Director Scott Cooper
Runtime 2hr 8min
Set in 1830 and directed by Scott Cooper, this mystery thriller follows the endeavors of a retired detective, Augustus Landor, who is hired to investigate the murder of a West Point cadet. To unravel this mystery, he enlists the help of a young man known as Edgar Allan Poe. With its well-executed murder mystery narrative, The Pale Blue Eye is a treat, particularly for those who relish period mysteries.
A Great Cast and a Shocking Twist
The plot twist is so well executed that it leaves viewers thoroughly shocked when the identity of the killer is finally revealed. The film boasts a stellar cast, including Christian Bale, Toby Jones, Harry Melling, Robert Duvall, and others, which undeniably adds to its allure. While the film’s runtime of over two hours may be a deterrent for those who do not enjoy lengthy films, it’s worth your time.
11 The Devil All the Time (2020)
Release Date September 11, 2020
Billed as a gothic psychological thriller, The Devil All the Time saw MCU superstar, Tom Holland, shed his wholesome Spider-Man image in spectacular fashion. Taking place after WWII, the film throws together a variety of complex characters in a small town besieged by killings and backward thinking that enables much of its own issues to persist.
A Solid Netflix Original
A terrific cast at its center, the film also featured Bill Skarsgård and Robert Pattinson, among others who all delivered some great performances to wrap the film in an air of tension, and a disturbing atmosphere. It was based on the debut novel of Donald Ray Pollock and expertly intertwines the past with people’s present to explore a dark psychological story of how secrets and desperation can collide with tragic consequences.
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10 Game Over (2019)
Through the story of Swapna, this psychological thriller explores the themes of trauma, survival, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable horrors. Directed by Ashwin Saravanan, it follows this video game programmer, Swapna who is constantly tormented by her fears. Her life takes a dark turn when a serial killer, known as the “Mask Killer” starts targeting women in her city.
A Unique Horror Flick
While Game Over has drawn comparisons to Happy Death Day due to certain similarities, it is an intriguing horror film in its own right. Despite the mixed reviews the film has received, it is definitely worth checking out on Netflix. It boasts of attention-grabbing cinematography intertwined with a suspenseful plot. It also works quite well as a dark and engaging home invasion thriller.
9 Luther: The Fallen Sun (2023)
With Idris Elba in the titular role of John Luther, a former Detective Chief Inspector, the film is based on Luther’s arrest and subsequent jailbreak in pursuit of serial killer David Robey. Luther: The Fallen Sun is a successor to the Luther TV series, although not a direct sequel, with Netflix having clarified that familiarity with the TV show was not required for viewers to understand the film.
A Gritty Continuation of Luther’s Story
Luther: The Fallen Sun, despite establishing itself as being separate from the original TV series, is quite similar to the series in the gritty, dark, and thrilling tone it utilizes. Luther carries his character traits from the series into the film, being the same stubborn and determined detective that viewers are accustomed to seeing.
The film sees Luther at his full potential, embarking on a vengeful, thrilling hunt for tech whiz turned serial killer David Robbey. In addition to having well-developed characters, excellent cinematography and a gripping plot, Luther: The Fallen Sun also treats fans of the original series by continuing a few relationships, such as that of Martin Schenk, into the movie.
8 The Babysitter (2017)
Release Date October 13, 2017
McG’s The Babysitter is one of that underrated director’s better films (though it’s still no Charlie’s Angels). What makes it stand out? For one, its balance of horror, comedy, and coming-of-age tones. Second…Samara Weaving. If any film revealed her likability early on to a wide audience, it was this one, and that alone makes it important.
An Oddly Lighthearted Take on a Serial Killer Cabal
The Babysitter is not unlike an R-rated version of Home Alone. It’s just that, instead of being left alone to face some burglars, this kid is left with a babysitter who’s part of a very particular team. Specifically, a team of young people who frequently engage in ritual sacrifice. And guess who’s next on the chopping block?
7 Lost Girls (2020)
Lost Girls is a poignant film that sheds light on the overlooked victims of crimes and the tireless efforts of their loved ones to find them. Through the story of Mari Gilbert and the Long Island serial killer case, the film explores the theme of motherhood and exposes the shortcomings of the criminal justice system. Based on the true story of the Long Island serial killer case and adapted from the book of the same name by Robert Kolker, this drama thriller follows the journey of Mari Gilbert (Amy Ryan) as she relentlessly searches for her missing daughter, frustrated by the police’s inaction.
A Grounded Serial Killer Story With a Human Edge
Lost Girls has been praised for its realism, passionate storytelling, and superb acting from its cast. It evokes deep empathy for the victim’s families as the story progresses. Standing out from the pack with its subdued drama that avoids sensationalizing its story, those seeking a fresh perspective on typical serial killer films will find it intriguing.
6 The Good Nurse (2022)
Release Date October 26, 2022
Director Tobias Lindholm
Based on the true story of nurse Charles Cullen, The Good Nurse stars Jessica Chastain as a nurse named Amy Loughren who grows suspicious of her colleague, Charles Cullen (Eddie Redmayne), when dozens of patients unexpectedly die under his care. Now, it is left to Amy to uncover the truth and stop this serial killer nurse.
A Tense, Slow-Burn Drama
The Good Nurse is well-paced, delivering a chilling narrative that is expertly carried by the outstanding performances of Chastain and Redmayne. The cinematography is both captivating and creative, utilizing long lingering shots to enhance the authenticity of the story. It proves to be an engaging film for those who appreciate a slow build and a dark storyline. Undoubtedly, it stands as one of the finest dark dramas available on Netflix.
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5 Thanksgiving (2023)
Release Date November 17, 2023
Directed by Eli Roth, Thanksgiving is a full-fledged version of a fake trailer included in Quentin Tarantino and Robert Rodriguez’s Grindhouse back in 2007. With fans having clamored for Thanksgiving for some time, the release of the film in time for Thanksgiving season in 2023 had viewers referring to the film as one of the best horror films of 2023.
A Chilling Slasher Set in the Birthplace of the Holiday
Thanksgiving, paying homage to its title, is set in the birthplace of the holiday, Plymouth, Massachusetts. A town that loves the holiday is terrorized by a serial killer who appears to not be too pleased with a Black Friday sale. Donning a mask of John Carver, the first governor of Plymouth Colony, the killer sets out on a gruesome killing rampage targeting those who visited the sale. The imaginatively graphic killings, which see the killer cut, chop, and dice his victims, although macabre, are something any crime-lover will be drawn to.
4 Woman of the Hour (2024)
Anna Kendrick stars in her directorial debut, Woman of the Hour – the stranger-than-fiction story of an aspiring actress in 1970s Los Angeles and a serial killer in the midst of a yearslong murder spree, whose lives intersect when they’re cast on an episode of The Dating Game.
Release Date September 26, 2023
Cast Anna Kendrick , Daniel Zovatto , Autumn Best , Andy Thompson , David Beairsto , Tighe Gill , Bonnie Hay , Thomas Strumpski , Nicolette Robinson , Kathryn Gallagher , Kelley Jakle , Tony Hale
Anna Kendrick made her dazzling directorial debut with the crime thriller Woman of the Hour, which highlights the chilling 1978 TV appearance of serial killer Rodney Alcala (Daniel Zovatto) on the American game show The Dating Game, which he infamously appeared on while in the middle of a violent murder spree. Kendrick portrays aspiring actress Sheryl Bradshaw, who goes on the show in hopes of landing her big break and ends up choosing Bachelor #3 (Alcala) while on the program; he had already murdered five women by the time he was on the show.
A Spine-Tingling True Story
The terrifying true story shocked people all across the country over the idea that a dangerous serial killer actually appeared on a dating game show, as Bradshaw herself ended up turning down a potential date with Alcala because she felt he was “creepy.” Kendrick did a phenomenal job capturing the grisly background of the notorious TV event while ramping up the suspense and horror Bradshaw experiences, as Alcala would go on to kill at least three more women after his appearance before being apprehended in 1979.
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