Several crimes have inspired media portrayals that have popularized not just the genre of true crime, but the criminal too

Films and TV shows, like any other relaxing activity, hope to provide an escape from reality. But is entertainment the sole purpose of such media? Filmmakers also have a responsibility to, in some way, hold a mirror up to society.^[1] Even slapstick comedies directed by Charlie Chaplin, while bringing a laugh to its viewers, reflects the inherent faults in society. Films and TV shows that depict crime are no different. Crime has accompanied humanity since as long as one can remember. Being a part of society, it needs to be shown to people in the hope of them realizing the error of their ways. Plato stated that all art is mimetic in nature, i.e. imitation of reality.^[2] Therefore, movies and TV series that depict violence and crime are not a glorification of the acts, but their honest and objective portrayal. These portrayals allow for a deeper understanding of the psyche of the criminals. Individuals make attempts to understand why the criminal acted the way they did. It allows people to be more sensitive towards issues like mental health and abuse, while simultaneously reflecting the cruelty that exists in some individuals who commit heinous crimes out of rage, jealousy or even in certain cases, boredom and passion. Ultimately, if films reflect the good of society, then a depiction of the lurking horrors within is also necessary to help keep one’s actions in check.

[P1] People are very drawn to true crime stories due to the basic instinct of survival.