True crime documentaries have an uncanny ability to enthrall audiences with their gripping narratives. Streaming platforms have played a significant role in this surge of interest, providing easy access to crime stories that have left lasting imprints on society. HBO Max stands out among these platforms, offering documentaries delving into the lives of notorious criminals and the atrocities they have committed.
These documentaries offer a detailed glimpse into criminals’ minds and motivations and delve into the intricacies of human behavior. They keep viewers on the edge of their seats, evoking strong emotions, including empathy for the victims. Moreover, they provide insight into the meticulous investigative processes of authorities in their pursuit of justice.
This article looks at some of the best true crime documentaries on HBO Max.
Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV
Released in March 2024, Quiet on Set: The Dark Side of Kids TV provides a harrowing look at children’s television programs. The five-part documentary focuses on Dan Schneider’s stint as showrunner at Nickelodeon. The documentary series became a topic of discussion after actor-turned-musician Drake Bell opened up about the sexual abuse he endured at the hands of Brian Peck. In the documentary, Bell also revealed how Peck trapped him and continued the assault for a long time.
Apart from Bell, the documentary series featured several people who noted that Dan Schneider abused them. The documentary series excels in presenting factual information, aiding viewers’ understanding of events. Quiet on Set received widespread praise, overtaking The Last of Us as HBO Max’s top-streamed title.
All five episodes of Quiet on Set are available for streaming on Max.
House of Hammer
During 2021, an anonymous Instagram account shared numerous screenshots depicting Armie Hammer’s purported conversations with various women. Among the revelations, one of Hammer’s ex-girlfriends disclosed to Page Six his desire to cook and consume one of her ribs, sparking widespread shock in the industry. In 2022, Discovery+ launched a documentary series named House of Hammer, delving into the actor’s life and exposing the hidden truths of the Hammer family.
The documentary features interviews with Hammer’s former partners, who did not shy away from talking about his behavior. However, the most intriguing aspect of the series is how Armie Hammer’s aunt, Casey Hammer, unravels disturbing facts about her own family. Subsequently, Hammer vehemently denied all the accusations and revealed he was sexually assaulted at the age of 13.
House of Hammer is available to stream on Max and Discovery Plus.
Mind Over Murder
Mind Over Murder is one of the most fascinating true crime documentaries on HBO Max. The 2022 documentary series focuses on Beatrice Six, who were convicted for the sexual assault and murder of Helen Wilson that took place in 1985. They spent more than two decades behind the bards for their crimes. However, in 2009, DNA evidence found that none of them committed the crime, even though five of them initially confessed to the crime.
The documentary adeptly reveals how authorities coerced the alleged culprits into giving false statements while also delving into the complexities of the human mind in challenging circumstances. This true crime series boasts a flawless 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Mind Over Murder is available to stream on Max.
