Productions depicting actual serial murderers and available for streaming on a particular service represent a specific subgenre of crime film. These cinematic works aim to recreate, sometimes with dramatic license, the documented actions of individuals who have committed multiple homicides, drawing source material from court records, biographical accounts, and journalistic investigations. Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer serves as an early example of this type of narrative, although not initially widely available via streaming services upon its release.
The popularity of these productions reflects a societal fascination with the psychology of criminal behavior and the exploration of dark aspects of the human condition. Furthermore, their prevalence highlights the accessibility afforded by streaming platforms, which provide a vast library of content to a global audience. Historically, interest in serial killers has been evident in true crime literature, but cinematic adaptations bring a visual and often visceral element to the narrative.