Hey true crime aficionados! Are you looking for the best true crime documentaries of 2022? Well, buckle up because 2022 delivered some seriously gripping and unforgettable stories. From scandalous cons to baffling mysteries, the year was filled with documentaries that kept us on the edge of our seats. Let's dive into some of the standout titles that made waves and had everyone talking.

What Makes a True Crime Documentary Great?

Before we jump into specific titles, let’s talk about what elevates a true crime documentary from just good to absolutely unforgettable. A great true crime doc isn't just about recounting events; it’s about storytelling, investigation, and emotional depth. The best true crime documentaries often feature:

• Compelling Narratives: They weave intricate stories that keep you hooked from beginning to end. Think unexpected twists, dramatic reveals, and narratives that challenge your perceptions.
• In-Depth Investigation: They delve deep into the details, uncovering new evidence, interviewing key players, and piecing together complex puzzles. We’re talking about serious investigative journalism here.
• Emotional Resonance: They connect with viewers on an emotional level, exploring the impact of crimes on victims, families, and communities. It’s not just about the facts; it’s about the human stories behind them.
• Ethical Considerations: The best true crime documentaries handle sensitive topics with care and respect, avoiding sensationalism and focusing on justice and truth. Ethical storytelling is paramount.

When these elements come together, you get a true crime documentary that’s not only informative but also deeply impactful. It's this combination that separates the must-watch docs from the ones that are just okay. So, with these criteria in mind, let’s look at some of the best true crime documentaries of 2022.

Top True Crime Documentaries of 2022

1. The Tinder Swindler

The Tinder Swindler is a whirlwind of deception, luxury, and heartbreak. This documentary tells the story of Shimon Hayut, who posed as a wealthy diamond mogul's son named Simon Leviev on the dating app Tinder. He charmed women with lavish dates and displays of wealth, only to later manipulate them into lending him vast sums of money under false pretenses. The film is a masterclass in storytelling, blending interviews with the victims, evidence of his cons, and real-time reactions as they uncover the extent of his lies.

Why it's great:

• Fast-Paced Narrative: The documentary moves quickly, keeping you engaged with each new revelation.
• Victim Empowerment: It gives a voice to the women who were scammed, allowing them to share their stories and seek justice.
• Global Impact: The story resonated worldwide, sparking conversations about online dating safety and the psychology of scammers.

The Tinder Swindler is a must-watch for anyone interested in the dark side of online romance and the devastating impact of fraud. The way it unveils the layers of deception and the resilience of the victims makes it a standout in the true crime genre.

2. Bad Vegan: Fame. Fraud. Fugitives.

Bad Vegan is a wild ride into the bizarre world of Sarma Melngailis, a celebrity restaurateur who went from vegan food queen to fugitive. The documentary explores how Sarma, the owner of the popular New York City restaurant Pure Food and Wine, fell under the sway of Anthony Strangis, who convinced her that he could expand her food empire and even make her dog immortal – if she followed his increasingly bizarre demands and siphoned money from her business to him.

Why it's great:

• Unbelievable Story: The premise is so outlandish that it's hard to believe it's true.
• Access to Key Players: The documentary features extensive interviews with Sarma herself, providing a rare glimpse into her mindset.
• Exploration of Manipulation: It delves into the psychology of coercion and the power dynamics within relationships.

Bad Vegan is more than just a story about a scam; it's a cautionary tale about the dangers of blind faith and the allure of false promises. It’s one of those best true crime documentaries that leaves you scratching your head and wondering how it all went so wrong.

3. Jimmy Savile: A British Horror Story

Jimmy Savile: A British Horror Story is a chilling exploration of how one of the UK's most beloved television personalities managed to hide a decades-long history of sexual abuse. The documentary pieces together archival footage, interviews, and testimonies to paint a disturbing portrait of a man who used his celebrity status to prey on vulnerable individuals.

Why it's great:

• Important Subject Matter: It tackles a difficult but crucial topic with sensitivity and depth.
• Comprehensive Investigation: The documentary leaves no stone unturned in its examination of Savile's crimes and the culture of complicity that enabled him.
• Societal Impact: It raises important questions about accountability, institutional failure, and the protection of victims.

Jimmy Savile: A British Horror Story is a tough watch, but it’s an essential one for understanding the complexities of abuse and the importance of speaking out. It is one of the best true crime documentaries of 2022 because it forces us to confront uncomfortable truths and demand change.

4. Girl in the Picture

Girl in the Picture is a harrowing and twist-filled documentary that unravels the mystery surrounding the life and death of Sharon Marshall. What starts as a seemingly straightforward case of a young woman's tragic death soon spirals into a web of kidnapping, abuse, and identity theft. The documentary is a rollercoaster of emotions, as each new revelation deepens the sense of horror and injustice.

Why it's great:

• Unpredictable Plot: The story is full of unexpected turns, keeping you guessing until the very end.
• Emotional Depth: It explores the devastating impact of trauma and the resilience of the human spirit.
• True Crime Puzzle: The documentary masterfully pieces together fragmented clues to reveal the truth.

Girl in the Picture is a disturbing but ultimately compelling story about the search for identity and the fight for justice. It's a true crime documentary that stays with you long after the credits roll, making it a standout in the best true crime documentaries of 2022.

5. Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey

Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey delves into the secretive world of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS) and its former leader, Warren Jeffs. The documentary exposes the abuses and exploitation that occurred within the cult, including forced marriages, underage brides, and the systematic control of its members. It's a chilling look at the dangers of religious extremism and the importance of protecting vulnerable communities.

Why it's great:

• Inside Look: It provides rare access to former FLDS members, offering firsthand accounts of life within the cult.
• Exploration of Power Dynamics: The documentary examines the ways in which Warren Jeffs maintained control over his followers.
• Social Commentary: It raises important questions about religious freedom, child protection, and the role of government oversight.

Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey is a disturbing but essential documentary for understanding the complexities of religious cults and the importance of safeguarding human rights. It’s a powerful example of the best true crime documentaries that shed light on hidden worlds and demand accountability.

Honorable Mentions

While the documentaries listed above are some of the most talked-about and critically acclaimed of 2022, there are a few other titles that deserve a mention:

• Our Father: Another Netflix hit, this documentary explores the disturbing story of a fertility doctor who inseminated patients with his own sperm without their knowledge.
• The Andy Warhol Diaries: This docuseries delves into the life and work of the iconic artist, revealing new insights into his personal relationships and creative process.
• Conversations with a Killer: The Jeffrey Dahmer Tapes: This chilling series features never-before-heard audio interviews with the infamous serial killer, offering a disturbing glimpse into his mind.

Why We're Hooked: The Allure of True Crime

So, what's the deal with our obsession with true crime? Why do we find ourselves drawn to these often dark and disturbing stories? There are several factors at play:

• Understanding the Human Psyche: True crime allows us to explore the motivations and behaviors of individuals who commit heinous acts, offering insights into the darker aspects of human nature.
• The Thrill of the Mystery: Many true crime stories are filled with twists, turns, and unanswered questions, providing a sense of intellectual stimulation and the challenge of solving a puzzle.
• Justice and Morality: True crime often raises questions about justice, fairness, and the consequences of our actions, prompting us to reflect on our own values and beliefs.
• Catharsis: For some, engaging with true crime can be a way to process their own fears and anxieties, providing a sense of control and understanding in a chaotic world.

Conclusion: The Best True Crime Documentaries of 2022

2022 was a banner year for true crime documentaries, offering a diverse range of stories that captivated audiences around the world. From scams and cons to cults and cover-ups, these documentaries kept us on the edge of our seats and sparked important conversations about justice, morality, and the human condition. Whether you're a seasoned true crime fan or just dipping your toes into the genre, there's something on this list for everyone. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be engrossed in the best true crime documentaries of 2022. Happy watching, guys!