The Best True Crime to Stream: Family Matters

In recent years, the true crime genre has skyrocketed in popularity, with numerous streaming services offering an array of documentaries and series that dig deep into some of the most perplexing and chilling criminal cases. Among these, a particular sub-genre that never fails to capture audiences involves family dynamics and domestic settings. Here’s a look at some of the best true crime shows and documentaries about family matters that are currently available to stream.
“The Family I Had” – This documentary delves into the tragic story of a family dealing with the aftermath of a devastating event: a young boy named Paris Bennett murdering his four-year-old half-brother. It explores themes of grief, mental health, and the complex nature of familial bonds.
“Mommy Dead and Dearest” – Available on HBO, this documentary by Erin Lee Carr examines the bizarre case of Gypsy Rose Blanchard and the murder of her mother, Dee Dee Blanchard. It presents a shocking look into Munchausen syndrome by proxy and the layers of deception within their relationship.
“The Staircase” – Streaming on Netflix, this series follows the case of novelist Michael Peterson, accused of murdering his wife, Kathleen. The intricately detailed episodes shed light on their family life and the controversial trial that followed her death.
“American Murder: The Family Next Door” – This Netflix documentary tells the story of Chris Watts, a seemingly normal husband and father who murdered his pregnant wife Shanann and their two daughters. The film uses social media posts, law enforcement recordings, text messages, and home video footage to piece together this harrowing tale.
“A Murder in Mansfield” – Filmmaker Barbara Kopple explores Collier Landry’s journey as he revisits his past where as a boy he witnessed his mother’s murder by his father. Available for streaming on Investigation Discovery, it is both a personal account and an exploration of the lasting impact that crime within a family can have.
These selections represent some of the most thought-provoking true crime storytelling available today. Each one examines not just the crime itself but also its profound impact on family dynamics and psychology. Whether you’re looking for deep investigations or personal stories, these true crime stories are sure to both engage and unsettle you in equal measure.