20 Best Serial Killer Movies: A Chilling Collection of Psychopathic Thrillers

Serial killer movies have been a popular genre in cinema for decades, with audiences drawn to the thrill of fear and the suspense of a mystery.

These movies explore the dark psychology of the killers, often delving into the reasons behind their crimes and the twisted logic they use to justify their actions.

The best serial killer movies not only shock and scare audiences, but also offer insight into the human psyche and the complexities of criminal behavior.

They may feature chilling performances from actors portraying the killers, intense cat-and-mouse games between the killer and the investigator, or explore the impact of the killings on the victims and their families.

Some of the most iconic serial killer movies include classics like “The Silence of the Lambs,” “Se7en,” and “Psycho,” as well as more recent entries like “Zodiac” and “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.”

These films have become cultural touchstones, inspiring countless imitators and serving as benchmarks for the genre.

Best Serial Killer Movies

In this article, we will explore some of the best serial killer movies of all time, looking at what makes them so memorable and analyzing their impact on popular culture.

1. Se7en (1995)

Se7en is a psychological crime thriller movie released in 1995 directed by David Fincher and written by Andrew Kevin Walker. The movie stars Brad Pitt, Morgan Freeman, and Gwyneth Paltrow in the lead roles.

The plot of the movie revolves around two detectives, William Somerset (Morgan Freeman) and David Mills (Brad Pitt), who are investigating a series of murders committed by a serial killer who uses the seven deadly sins as his inspiration for the killings.

The killer’s victims represent the seven sins: gluttony, greed, sloth, envy, wrath, pride, and lust. As the investigation progresses, the detectives find themselves in a race against time to catch the killer before he completes his seven deadly sins murder spree.

The movie received critical acclaim for its direction, screenplay, performances, and visual style. It is considered one of the best crime thriller movies ever made and is also known for its shocking and twisted ending. Se7en was a box office success and grossed over $327 million worldwide.

2. The Bone Collector (1999)

“The Bone Collector” is a crime thriller movie released in 1999, directed by Phillip Noyce and starring Denzel Washington and Angelina Jolie. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Jeffery Deaver.

The story follows Lincoln Rhyme (Denzel Washington), a former NYPD detective and forensic expert who is left paralyzed from the neck down after a tragic accident.

He is called back to duty to help solve a series of murders committed by a serial killer known as “The Bone Collector.” Rhyme is aided by Amelia Donaghy (Angelina Jolie), a young beat cop who discovers the first victim’s body.

Together, they must use their respective skills and knowledge to track down the killer before he strikes again. As they investigate the case, they uncover a complex web of clues and motives, and must race against time to prevent more killings.

The film received generally positive reviews and was a commercial success, grossing over $150 million worldwide. It was praised for its suspenseful plot and strong performances from its lead actors.

3. Citizen X (1995 TV Movie)

“Citizen X” is a 1995 TV movie directed by Chris Gerolmo. It is based on the true story of the investigation into the murders of at least 52 women and children in the Soviet Union during the 1980s, committed by a serial killer known as Andrei Chikatilo.

The film stars Stephen Rea as Colonel Mikhail Fetisov, a forensic expert who becomes obsessed with catching the killer, and Donald Sutherland as Dr. Alexandr Bukhanovsky, a psychiatrist who helps Fetisov in his investigation.

The movie is known for its realistic portrayal of the Soviet Union during the 1980s, and for its depiction of the difficult and often frustrating investigation into Chikatilo’s crimes.

It was praised by critics for its strong performances and its ability to generate suspense and tension, despite the fact that the outcome of the investigation is already known.

“Citizen X” was nominated for several awards, including eleven Emmy Awards, and won three, including Outstanding Made for Television Movie.

4. The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

“The Silence of the Lambs” is a psychological thriller film directed by Jonathan Demme and released in 1991.

It is based on the novel of the same name by Thomas Harris and stars Jodie Foster as Clarice Starling, a young FBI trainee who is tasked with interviewing Dr. Hannibal Lecter, a brilliant psychiatrist and cannibalistic serial killer, played by Anthony Hopkins.

The film follows Clarice as she tries to use Lecter’s insights to catch another serial killer known as “Buffalo Bill,” who is kidnapping and killing young women.

The film was a critical and commercial success, receiving widespread acclaim for its performances, direction, and screenplay.

It won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Adapted Screenplay.

It is widely regarded as a classic of the thriller genre and has been highly influential in popular culture.

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5. Zodiac (2007)

“Zodiac” is a 2007 American mystery thriller film directed by David Fincher and starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Mark Ruffalo, and Robert Downey Jr. The movie is based on the real-life Zodiac killer case that took place in the late 1960s and early 1970s in the San Francisco Bay Area.

The film follows the investigation of the Zodiac killer, who committed a series of murders and sent taunting letters to the police and newspapers, claiming responsibility for the crimes.

Gyllenhaal plays Robert Graysmith, a cartoonist at the San Francisco Chronicle who becomes obsessed with solving the case. Ruffalo plays Inspector David Toschi, one of the lead detectives on the case, while Downey Jr. plays Paul Avery, a reporter who covers the story.

The film received critical acclaim for its direction, screenplay, and performances, particularly that of Gyllenhaal. It was nominated for several awards, including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for Downey Jr.

“Zodiac” is known for its accurate portrayal of the events of the case and the attention to detail in its production design, which recreates the look and feel of the late 1960s and early 1970s with authenticity.

It is widely considered one of Fincher’s best films and one of the most compelling true crime movies ever made.

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6. Psycho (1960)

“Psycho” is a psychological horror film directed by Alfred Hitchcock, released in 1960. It is based on a novel of the same name by Robert Bloch.

The film stars Anthony Perkins as Norman Bates, a young man who runs a motel in rural Arizona, and Janet Leigh as Marion Crane, a woman who embezzles money from her employer and seeks refuge at Bates’ motel.

The film is famous for its innovative camera techniques, its suspenseful score, and its shocking plot twist, which has become one of the most iconic moments in film history.

“Psycho” has had a lasting impact on the horror genre and is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made.

It was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actress for Janet Leigh, but did not win any. Hitchcock himself did receive the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award that same year, in recognition of his exceptional body of work as a filmmaker.

7. I Saw the Devil (2010)

“I Saw the Devil” is a South Korean thriller film released in 2010, directed by Kim Jee-woon and starring Lee Byung-hun and Choi Min-sik. The film follows a secret agent named Kim Soo-hyun (Lee Byung-hun) as he seeks revenge on a sadistic serial killer named Kyung-chul (Choi Min-sik) who murdered his fiancée.

The movie is known for its intense and brutal violence, as well as its exploration of the psychological toll of revenge. The film features incredibly well-executed action scenes and a gripping plot that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.

The performances by Lee Byung-hun and Choi Min-sik are both outstanding, with Lee playing the determined and cold-hearted agent and Choi portraying the sadistic killer with chilling realism.

The film’s cinematography and score are also noteworthy, contributing to the movie’s tense and eerie atmosphere.

“I Saw the Devil” received critical acclaim for its performances, direction, and storytelling, and has been praised as one of the best revenge thrillers ever made. However, due to its extreme violence and graphic nature, the film may not be suitable for all viewers.

8. Manhunter (1986)

Manhunter is a psychological thriller film released in 1986, directed by Michael Mann and based on the novel “Red Dragon” by Thomas Harris. The movie stars William Petersen, Kim Greist, Joan Allen, Dennis Farina, and Brian Cox in the lead roles.

The movie revolves around FBI profiler Will Graham (William Petersen), who is called out of retirement to investigate a series of murders committed by a serial killer nicknamed “The Tooth Fairy” (Tom Noonan).

Graham must use his unique insight into the killer’s mind to track him down before he strikes again.

Along the way, he seeks the help of Dr. Hannibal Lecktor (Brian Cox), a former patient and notorious cannibalistic serial killer who is imprisoned in a mental institution.

Manhunter received positive reviews from critics, who praised its direction, performances, and cinematography.

It is also known for being the first film adaptation of Thomas Harris’s novels featuring the character of Hannibal Lecter. While not a box office success, Manhunter has gained a cult following over the years and is considered a classic of the thriller genre.

9. Red Dragon (2002)

“Red Dragon” is a psychological thriller movie released in 2002, directed by Brett Ratner and starring Anthony Hopkins, Edward Norton, and Ralph Fiennes. The film is based on the novel of the same name by Thomas Harris and is a prequel to “The Silence of the Lambs.”

The story follows FBI agent Will Graham (Edward Norton), who is called out of retirement to help catch a serial killer known as “The Tooth Fairy” (Ralph Fiennes). To do so, Graham seeks the help of Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins), a former psychiatrist and cannibalistic serial killer who is serving a life sentence in prison.

As Graham and Lecter work together to track down “The Tooth Fairy,” they both become increasingly obsessed with the killer’s mind and motivations. Meanwhile, the killer continues to elude them and becomes more and more violent.

“Red Dragon” received mixed reviews from critics, but was a commercial success, grossing over $209 million worldwide. It was praised for the performances of its cast, particularly Anthony Hopkins, who reprised his iconic role as Hannibal Lecter. The film also features strong suspenseful sequences and atmospheric cinematography.

10. M (1931)

“M” is a 1931 German film directed by Fritz Lang. The film is a thriller and one of the most influential works in the history of cinema. It tells the story of a serial killer, played by Peter Lorre, who preys on young girls in Berlin.

The killer is eventually caught by the police, but not before the city is thrown into chaos and the criminal underworld takes matters into its own hands.

The film is known for its groundbreaking use of sound and camera techniques, including the use of off-screen sound to create tension and the use of a subjective camera to put the viewer in the perspective of the killer.

It is also notable for its commentary on the rise of fascism in Germany and the breakdown of law and order in society.

“M” was initially banned by the Nazi Party in Germany, but it has since been recognized as a masterpiece of German cinema and one of the greatest films of all time.

It has been remade and referenced in many other films, and its influence can be seen in the development of the thriller genre.

11. The Pledge (I) (2001)

“The Pledge” is a psychological thriller film directed by Sean Penn and released in 2001. The movie stars Jack Nicholson as Jerry Black, a retired detective who becomes obsessed with solving a case involving the murder of a young girl.

After promising the girl’s mother that he will catch the killer, Jerry embarks on a dangerous and emotionally taxing quest to find the perpetrator.

The film also stars Robin Wright, Aaron Eckhart, Vanessa Redgrave, and Sam Shepard in supporting roles.

The screenplay was adapted by Jerzy Kromolowski and Mary Olson-Kromolowski from Friedrich Dürrenmatt’s novel “The Pledge: Requiem for the Detective Novel.”

Although the movie received mixed reviews upon its release, Nicholson’s performance was widely praised, and the film has since gained a cult following. It is notable for its unconventional storytelling structure and its exploration of themes such as grief, guilt, and obsession.

12. Frenzy (1972)

“Frenzy” is a 1972 British thriller film directed by Alfred Hitchcock. The movie is based on the novel “Goodbye Piccadilly, Farewell Leicester Square” by Arthur La Bern and was Hitchcock’s penultimate film before his death in 1980.

The film tells the story of a serial killer, known as the “Necktie Murderer”, who is terrorizing London. The killer’s modus operandi is to strangle his victims with a necktie and leave a signature tie knot on their necks.

The movie follows the investigation of the murders, which eventually leads to a young ex-RAF officer named Richard Blaney (played by Jon Finch), who becomes the prime suspect in the case.

The film features many classic Hitchcockian themes and motifs, including the use of suspense, tension, and dark humor. It also features several iconic scenes, such as the opening shot of the Thames River and the scene in which the killer strangles a woman with a potato sack.

“Frenzy” was well-received by critics and is considered one of Hitchcock’s best films from his later years. It was notable for its graphic violence and sexual content, which were somewhat unusual for a Hitchcock film at the time.

The movie was also significant for being Hitchcock’s first film shot in England in over 20 years, and it marked a return to his roots as a British filmmaker.

13. Monster (2003)

“Monster” is a biographical crime drama film released in 2003, directed by Patty Jenkins. It is based on the real-life story of Aileen Wuornos, a former prostitute who was executed in 2002 for murdering seven men in Florida between 1989 and 1990.

Charlize Theron plays the lead role of Aileen Wuornos, and Christina Ricci plays her girlfriend, Selby Wall.

The film received critical acclaim for Theron’s transformative performance, which earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress.

The film also explores the abuse and trauma Wuornos experienced throughout her life, which some have argued contributed to her crimes.

However, the film has also been criticized for its portrayal of Wuornos, with some arguing that it romanticizes her relationship with Selby and fails to adequately address the extent of her crimes.

Overall, “Monster” is a powerful and haunting film that sheds light on the complexities of mental illness, trauma, and violence.

14. The Deliberate Stranger (1986)

“The Deliberate Stranger” is a made-for-TV movie released in 1986, directed by Marvin J. Chomsky and starring Mark Harmon as the infamous serial killer Ted Bundy.

The film is based on the true story of Bundy, who murdered at least 30 young women and girls during the 1970s.

The movie depicts Bundy’s crimes in a disturbingly realistic way, showing his charming personality and the way he was able to manipulate his victims into trusting him before brutally murdering them.

The film also delves into the investigation and the eventual capture of Bundy, as well as his trial and eventual execution.

Mark Harmon’s performance as Bundy has been widely praised, with many critics noting how he was able to capture Bundy’s charisma and manipulative nature while also portraying the cold-blooded killer he truly was.

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The film also features strong supporting performances, including Frederic Forrest as the detective tasked with capturing Bundy and George Grizzard as Bundy’s lawyer.

“The Deliberate Stranger” has been lauded for its accuracy in portraying Bundy’s crimes and the investigation that led to his capture.

It offers a chilling look at one of the most notorious serial killers in history and serves as a reminder of the horrific crimes he committed. However, due to its disturbing subject matter, the film may not be suitable for all viewers.

15. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is a psychological thriller movie released in 2011, directed by David Fincher and written by Steven Zaillian.

The movie is based on the novel of the same name by Stieg Larsson and stars Daniel Craig, Rooney Mara, Christopher Plummer, and Stellan Skarsgård in the lead roles.

The plot of the movie revolves around a journalist named Mikael Blomkvist (Daniel Craig) and a computer hacker named Lisbeth Salander (Rooney Mara), who are hired by a wealthy businessman named Henrik Vanger (Christopher Plummer) to investigate the disappearance of his niece over 40 years ago.

As they dig deeper, they uncover a dark and twisted web of secrets and lies that lead them to a serial killer who has been on the loose for decades.

The movie received critical acclaim for its direction, screenplay, and performances, particularly Rooney Mara’s portrayal of the enigmatic Lisbeth Salander.

It was also praised for its visual style and its haunting score by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo was a commercial success, grossing over $230 million worldwide.

16. Changeling (2008)

“Changeling” is a drama movie released in 2008, directed by Clint Eastwood and starring Angelina Jolie.

The film is based on the true story of Christine Collins, a single mother in 1920s Los Angeles whose son goes missing and is later found by the police, only for her to discover that the boy they return to her is not her own son.

The story follows Collins (Angelina Jolie) as she confronts the corrupt and malevolent police department who refuse to admit their mistake and continue to insist that the boy they found is her son.

As Collins fights for justice and the truth, she faces intimidation and persecution from those in power.

“Changeling” received generally positive reviews from critics and was praised for Angelina Jolie’s performance, which earned her a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Actress.

The film was also noted for its historical accuracy and its portrayal of the treatment of women and marginalized communities in 1920s Los Angeles.

17. Thesis (1996)

“Thesis” is a 1996 Spanish film directed by Alejandro Amenábar. The film is a psychological thriller that follows a young film student named Ángela, played by Ana Torrent, who is writing a thesis on violence in cinema.

As she begins to research the topic, she discovers a snuff film that appears to be real, and she sets out to investigate the origins of the film and the identity of the killer.

The film is known for its suspenseful and tense atmosphere, as well as its commentary on violence and voyeurism in the media. It also features a strong performance by Torrent, who was praised for her portrayal of the determined and resourceful Ángela.

“Thesis” was a critical and commercial success in Spain, and it helped to establish Amenábar as one of the most promising young filmmakers in the country. The film has since gained a cult following and has been cited as a key work in the development of the Spanish thriller genre.

18. Frailty (2001)

“Frailty” is a psychological horror film directed by Bill Paxton and released in 2001. The movie stars Paxton himself, along with Matthew McConaughey and Powers Boothe.

The film follows a young man named Fenton Meiks (McConaughey) as he visits an FBI agent (Boothe) to confess that his recently deceased father (Paxton) was a serial killer who believed he was on a mission from God to destroy “demons” disguised as human beings.

As Fenton recounts his traumatic childhood experiences with his fanatically religious father, the agent struggles to determine whether he is telling the truth or if he is simply insane.

The film builds suspense as it slowly reveals the horrifying truth behind the father’s twisted beliefs and actions.

“Frailty” was well received by critics, with many praising its eerie atmosphere, strong performances, and unique storytelling. It has since gained a cult following and is considered one of the most underrated horror films of the early 2000s.

19. Eyes of Laura Mars (1978)

“The Eyes of Laura Mars” is a 1978 American horror-thriller film directed by Irvin Kershner and starring Faye Dunaway, Tommy Lee Jones, and Brad Dourif. The movie was written by John Carpenter and David Zelag Goodman.

The film tells the story of Laura Mars (played by Dunaway), a fashion photographer who becomes increasingly disturbed when she begins to have visions of murders.

Her images, which previously have been celebrated for their erotic and violent content, now seem to be predicting the actual crimes.

The investigation into the murders is led by Detective John Neville (played by Jones), who becomes involved with Laura romantically while trying to solve the case.

The movie explores themes of violence, voyeurism, and the objectification of women in the fashion industry. It also features a memorable score by Italian composer Ennio Morricone.

“The Eyes of Laura Mars” received mixed reviews upon its release but has since gained a cult following.

It is notable for its stylish direction and the performances of its lead actors, particularly Dunaway, who delivers a strong portrayal of a troubled and conflicted protagonist.

The film also features several shocking and suspenseful moments that have made it a memorable addition to the horror-thriller genre.

20. La madre muerta (1993)

“La madre muerta” is a Spanish drama film directed by Juanma Bajo Ulloa and released in 1993. The film stars Karra Elejalde as Juan, a man who returns to his hometown in Spain after being released from a psychiatric hospital.

There, he reunites with his sister, Ana, played by Ana Alvarez, and confronts the traumatic events of his past.

The film explores themes of family dysfunction, mental illness, and the lasting effects of childhood trauma. It received critical acclaim for its bold and unflinching portrayal of these difficult themes, as well as for its atmospheric and visually striking cinematography.

“La madre muerta” is considered a classic of Spanish cinema and is widely regarded as one of the most important and influential films to come out of the country in the 1990s.

It won several awards at international film festivals, including the Goya Award for Best Cinematography, and helped launch the careers of its director and lead actors.

3 Characteristics of Serial Killer Movies

Focus on the psychology of the killer: Serial killer movies often delve deeply into the psyche of the killer, exploring their motivations, fantasies, and behavioral patterns.

These films often try to provide insight into what drives someone to commit such heinous acts, and how their past experiences may have contributed to their behavior.

Tension and suspense: Serial killer movies are often tense and suspenseful, as the audience is kept on the edge of their seats, waiting to see what will happen next.

These films often use techniques like jump scares, creepy music, and sudden plot twists to heighten the tension and keep viewers engaged.

Exploration of society’s fears and anxieties: Serial killer movies often reflect the fears and anxieties of the society in which they are produced.

They may explore issues such as violence, morality, mental illness, and the breakdown of social order. These films can be seen as a reflection of cultural anxieties and as a way of processing and understanding the darker aspects of human behavior.

3 Reasons To Watch Serial Killer Movies

Psychological exploration: Serial killer movies offer an opportunity to explore the psychological motivations and behaviors of these often gruesome and terrifying individuals.

They can provide insights into the criminal mind and the underlying factors that drive people to commit such heinous acts.

Suspenseful entertainment: For those who enjoy a good thriller or horror movie, serial killer films can offer a particularly intense and suspenseful viewing experience.

These movies often rely on twists and turns, unexpected reveals, and a sense of impending danger to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

Cultural fascination: There is no denying that serial killers have become a cultural fascination in recent decades, with countless movies, TV shows, books, and podcasts exploring these dark and disturbing individuals.

Watching serial killer movies can offer a window into this fascination and help us to better understand why these stories continue to captivate audiences.

Best Serial Killer Movies – Wrap Up

There have been many great movies made about serial killers over the years, and it’s difficult to narrow down the list to just a few. Some of the best include “The Silence of the Lambs” (1991), “Se7en” (1995), “Zodiac” (2007), “American Psycho” (2000), “Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer” (1986), “Monster” (2003), and “Psycho” (1960).

These films are notable for their chilling performances, intricate storytelling, and often disturbing portrayals of the psychology of serial killers. They have become cultural touchstones and continue to influence filmmakers and audiences alike.

However, it’s important to remember that while these films may be entertaining and thought-provoking, they also deal with real-life tragedies and should be approached with sensitivity and respect.

The subject matter of these movies can be triggering for some viewers, and it’s important to take care of yourself and seek support if needed.