10 Must-Watch Crime Films on Notorious Crimes

Description: This film recounts the investigation into the Boston Strangler, a serial killer who terrorized the city in the early 1960s. It's a chilling look at how fear gripped a city and the efforts to catch the killer.

Fact: The film was one of the first to delve into the psyche of a serial killer, offering a psychological perspective on crime.

Description: This film dramatizes the 1963 Great Train Robbery in England, one of the most audacious crimes of its time. It's a tale of meticulous planning, execution, and the aftermath of a crime that captured the public's imagination.

Fact: The film was shot on location in England, with some scenes filmed at the actual site of the robbery.

Description: While not a crime in the traditional sense, this film explores the corporate crime of tobacco companies and the whistleblower who exposed them. It's a gripping tale of truth, media, and corporate power.

Fact: The film was based on a real 60 Minutes segment, and the character of Jeffrey Wigand was played by Russell Crowe, who was nominated for an Oscar for his performance.

Description: Based on the 1971 Baker Street robbery in London, this film blends fact with fiction to tell the story of a heist that uncovered more than just money. It's a thrilling ride through the criminal underworld.

Fact: The real-life robbery was never fully solved, and the film takes creative liberties to fill in the gaps.

Description: This film explores the complex relationship between Jesse James and his eventual killer, Robert Ford, culminating in one of the most infamous assassinations in American history. It's a study in betrayal and the myth-making of outlaws.

Fact: The film was shot in Canada, standing in for the American Midwest. The cinematography, which captures the era's mood, was highly praised.

Description: Based on the true story of the Zodiac Killer, this film delves into the investigation, the obsession of those involved, and the chilling impact on society. It's a meticulous portrayal of a crime that remains unsolved.

Fact: David Fincher, the director, was so obsessed with the case that he spent years researching it, even consulting with real-life investigators.

Description: While not directly based on a real crime, this film's plot revolves around the investigation of a decades-old disappearance, touching on themes of corporate corruption and personal vendettas. It's a modern crime classic.

Fact: The film was adapted from a best-selling Swedish novel, and its success led to a trilogy of films, with this being the first.

Description: This epic crime saga follows Frank Sheeran, a hitman involved in the disappearance of Jimmy Hoffa, one of the most notorious unsolved crimes in American history. It's a deep dive into the world of organized crime and its consequences.

Fact: The film uses de-aging technology to portray the characters over several decades, with Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, and Joe Pesci delivering powerhouse performances.

Description: This documentary tells the bizarre true story of a French con artist who impersonated a missing Texas boy. It's a mind-bending exploration of identity, deception, and the lengths people will go to escape their reality.

Fact: The film uses reenactments and interviews to tell its story, creating a documentary that feels like a thriller.

Description: This film explores the mind of Samuel Byck, who attempted to assassinate President Richard Nixon. It's a dark, introspective look at a man driven to the edge by personal and societal failures.

Fact: Sean Penn's performance as Byck was critically acclaimed, showcasing his ability to delve into complex characters.