Calling all true crime fans! It's a new month, and with it comes a fresh lineup of chilling documentaries hitting streaming platforms. While there aren't as many as we would've liked, the ones arriving this March pack a serious punch. Whether you’re fascinated by high-profile criminal cases or deep dives into the minds of notorious criminals, these five must-see true crime documentaries we're about to share offer an unflinching look at the darkest corners of reality.
Now, get ready to immerse yourself in shocking revelations and gripping stories that will keep you hooked from beginning to end!
Chaos: The Manson Murders
Netflix release date: March 7
We're all familiar with the notorious American criminal and cult leader, Charles Manson, and his role in orchestrating the horrific murders committed by his followers in 1969. But in this new Netflix documentary by director Errol Morris titled Chaos: The Mandon Murders, it explores the mysterious and complicated story behind the Manson family murders, questioning the official story of the infamous 1960s killing spree. It also claims to shed light on the newly uncovered connections between the CIA, LSD, Charles Manson, and figures like Jack Ruby and prosecutor Vincent Bugliosi.
Adapted from the 2019 true crime novel CHAOS: Charles Manson, the CIA, and the Secret History of the Sixties by Tom O’Neill and Dan Piepenbring, the true crime documentary film delves into the hidden motives that might have contributed to the shocking Manson family murders and features interviews and archival visuals.
American Manhunt: Osama bin Laden
Netflix release date: March 10
The popular Netflix true crime franchise American Manhunt is returning this March with a new installment focusing on Osama bin Laden, the former founder and leader of the militant group al-Qaeda and the mastermind behind the devastating September 11 attacks. This three-part docuseries follows the success of American Manhunt: The Boston Marathon Bombing (released in 2023) and American Manhunt: O.J. Simpson (released earlier this year).
Titled American Manhunt: Osama bin Laden and directed by Mor Loushy and Daniel Sivan, the new documentary series offers a detailed look at the global efforts to track down Osama bin Laden after he masterminded the 9/11 attacks in the United States. It also features interviews with key U.S. government figures who were involved in the international hunt.
Gone Girls: The Long Island Serial Killer
Netflix release date: March 31
You might remember the Gilgo Beach serial killings, which shocked the nation with their disturbing and unsolved nature for over a decade. The case revolved around the discovery of multiple victims along the Gilgo Beach area of Long Island, New York, all linked to a suspected serial killer. In the new three-part true-crime docuseries Gone Girls: The Long Island Serial Killer, director Liz Garbus looks into the thorough investigation that finally led to the long-awaited arrest of Rex Heuermann, the man accused of being behind those killings and the murders of three other women. The documentary series includes interviews with journalists, law enforcement officials, and the friends and family members of both the victims and the accused killer.
Here are two other true crime docuseries and movies to watch on streaming platforms this month:
- Sin City Gigolo: A Murder in Las Vegas (already streaming on Paramount+)
- Last Take: Rust and the Story of Halyna (streaming on Hulu on March 11)