Hey there, true crime aficionados! If you're anything like me, you're constantly on the hunt for the next binge-worthy documentary that will keep you up at night, questioning everything you thought you knew. Well, you're in luck! 2022 was a stellar year for true crime documentaries, offering a mix of chilling mysteries, shocking revelations, and in-depth investigations. Let’s dive into some of the best that graced our screens, shall we?

What Makes a True Crime Documentary Great?

Before we jump into the list, let's quickly break down what elevates a true crime documentary from good to unforgettable. It's not just about the crime itself, but how the story is told. A great true crime doc does the following:

• Compelling Narrative: It hooks you from the start and keeps you engaged throughout.
• In-Depth Research: Thorough investigation and presentation of facts are crucial.
• Emotional Impact: It makes you feel something, whether it's shock, sadness, anger, or empathy.
• Unbiased Approach: Presenting multiple perspectives and avoiding sensationalism.
• High Production Value: Good editing, visuals, and sound quality enhance the viewing experience.

With that in mind, let's get to the documentaries that nailed these elements in 2022.

Top True Crime Documentaries of 2022

1. "The Tinder Swindler"

Why it's a must-watch: "The Tinder Swindler" took the world by storm, and for good reason. This documentary follows the unbelievable story of Shimon Hayut, an Israeli conman who posed as a wealthy diamond mogul on Tinder to swindle women out of millions of dollars. What makes this documentary so gripping is not just the scale of the fraud but also the emotional manipulation involved. You'll be on the edge of your seat as you watch these women piece together the truth and fight back against their swindler.

The documentary excels in painting a vivid picture of Hayut's methods, showing how he used charm, lavish gifts, and fabricated emergencies to gain his victims' trust. The interviews with the victims are heartbreaking, as they recount how they fell for his lies and the devastating financial and emotional consequences they faced. The filmmakers do an excellent job of balancing the narrative, showing both the allure of Hayut's deception and the harsh reality of his actions. It's a cautionary tale about the dangers of online dating and the importance of staying vigilant in the digital age. The pacing is perfect, keeping you hooked from start to finish, and the use of real messages and social media posts adds an extra layer of authenticity. If you haven't seen it yet, add it to your list now!

2. "Bad Vegan: Fame. Fraud. Fugitives."

Why it's captivating: Get ready for a wild ride with "Bad Vegan: Fame. Fraud. Fugitives." This four-part series tells the bizarre story of Sarma Melngailis, a celebrity restaurateur who built a vegan empire in New York City, only to have it all crumble when she fell under the spell of a mysterious man named Shane Fox. What starts as a seemingly normal relationship quickly descends into a world of manipulation, bizarre requests, and claims of immortality through special technology.

"Bad Vegan" is a masterclass in storytelling, weaving together interviews with Sarma, her employees, and those close to the situation to create a compelling and often unbelievable narrative. The documentary explores how Shane Fox, whose real name was Anthony Strangis, convinced Sarma to drain her restaurant's funds and send him money, promising to fulfill her wildest dreams. The series delves into the psychological manipulation at play, examining how Sarma, a smart and successful businesswoman, could fall for such an outlandish scheme. The inclusion of voicemails and text messages adds a chilling layer of intimacy to the story, allowing viewers to witness the extent of Strangis's control over Sarma. While the series has been criticized for giving Sarma a platform to tell her side of the story, it also raises important questions about power, manipulation, and the lengths people will go to for love and acceptance. Prepare to have your jaw drop multiple times during this one.

3. "Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey"

Why it's disturbing and eye-opening: "Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey" offers a chilling look inside the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS) and its former leader, Warren Jeffs. This documentary is not for the faint of heart, as it delves into the practices of polygamy, abuse, and control within the religious sect. Through interviews with former members, including some of Jeffs's wives and children, the series exposes the systematic oppression and exploitation that occurred within the FLDS community.

The documentary's strength lies in its ability to humanize the victims, giving them a voice to share their experiences and reclaim their narratives. The stories of young girls being forced into marriages with older men are particularly disturbing, highlighting the vulnerability and powerlessness of those living under Jeffs's rule. The series also explores the legal battles and investigations that eventually led to Jeffs's downfall, showcasing the efforts of law enforcement and activists to bring him to justice. "Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey" is a powerful and important documentary that sheds light on a hidden world of abuse and control, reminding us of the importance of protecting vulnerable communities and holding perpetrators accountable. It’s a tough watch, but an essential one for understanding the complexities of religious extremism and its impact on individuals and families. This one will leave you feeling both disturbed and determined to learn more.

4. "Our Father"

Why it's shocking and unsettling: "Our Father" is a documentary that will leave you completely stunned. It tells the story of Dr. Donald Cline, a fertility doctor who used his own sperm to inseminate patients without their knowledge or consent. As his offspring began to discover each other through DNA testing, they uncovered a web of deceit and betrayal that shattered their lives. This documentary is a shocking exploration of medical ethics, reproductive rights, and the long-lasting impact of one man's actions.

The documentary's impact lies in its ability to portray the emotional turmoil and sense of betrayal felt by the victims. The interviews with Cline's biological children are heartwrenching, as they grapple with the reality of their origins and the violation of trust perpetrated by their father. The series also delves into the legal complexities of the case, highlighting the challenges of holding Cline accountable for his actions. "Our Father" raises important questions about the regulation of fertility treatments and the need for greater transparency and oversight in the medical field. It's a chilling reminder of the potential for abuse within positions of power and the importance of safeguarding individual rights and autonomy. Prepare to be outraged and deeply moved by this unbelievable story. It’s a stark reminder of the importance of ethical conduct in medicine.

5. "Downfall: The Case Against Boeing"

Why it's relevant and infuriating: While not a traditional true crime documentary, "Downfall: The Case Against Boeing" is a gripping and important film that exposes the corporate greed and negligence that led to the tragic crashes of two Boeing 737 MAX airplanes. This documentary investigates the decisions made by Boeing executives and engineers that prioritized profits over safety, resulting in the deaths of 346 people.

The documentary’s power stems from its meticulous investigation and presentation of evidence. Through interviews with former Boeing employees, aviation experts, and family members of the victims, the film paints a damning picture of a company that lost its way. It reveals how Boeing rushed the 737 MAX to market to compete with Airbus, cutting corners on safety testing and failing to adequately train pilots on the new aircraft's features. The documentary also explores the cozy relationship between Boeing and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), raising questions about regulatory oversight and accountability. "Downfall: The Case Against Boeing" is a wake-up call about the dangers of unchecked corporate power and the importance of holding companies responsible for their actions. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in aviation safety, corporate ethics, and the pursuit of justice. This documentary will leave you questioning the safety of air travel and the priorities of major corporations. It serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of prioritizing profits over people.

Honorable Mentions

• Conversations with a Killer: The John Wayne Gacy Tapes: More from the series that brought us the Bundy tapes, delving into the mind of another notorious serial killer.
• The Andy Warhol Diaries: A fascinating look into the life of the iconic artist, with a true crime subplot.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! My top picks for the best true crime documentaries of 2022. From con artists to cult leaders to corporate negligence, these documentaries offer a chilling glimpse into the darker side of humanity. So grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and prepare for some seriously binge-worthy viewing. And remember, stay safe out there! You never know what secrets are lurking just beneath the surface.