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Knowing the layperson and the psychological perspective behind the success of actual crime shows is essential as the market grows, thanks to Spotify podcasts and Netflix originals like The Burari Deaths.
Many true crime documentaries and podcasts primarily focus on sensationalizing the crime or giving it a slight cinematic touch. True crime has long been sensationalized in Indian media, whether through the humorous “sans any” news reporting style or crime shows like Savdhaan India or Crime Patrol.
Horrific Stories Grabbing Attention!
Yet, other accurate crime mediums are appearing for the binge-watching age. Murder, Lies and Cyanide, The Big Shots – Dosa King, and Crime Kahaniyan are just a few of the crime-themed podcasts that can only be found on Spotify India.
The top-viewed crime stories
The Burari Deaths on Netflix was a huge hit, inspiring not only a wave of conversation but also a wave of memes about the show’s principal family and the infamous father, Lalit Chundawat.
The Butcher of Delhi is the latest true crime documentary from India that has the Internet buzzing. The documentary focuses on serial killer Chandrakant Jha, notorious for dumping his victims’ limbs outside Tihar Prison. The series surpassed even highly anticipated blockbusters like The Gray Man to become Netflix India’s most popular show in the week following its debut.
How are Crime Scenes gaining popularity?
Some viewers may find these documentaries unsettling since they feature graphic detail about the criminal’s atrocities and attempts to recreate them. Moreover, their rising popularity demonstrates the enormous potential for online broadcasting of Indian true crime.
But, for viewers who aren’t in these fields, binge-watching may be driven purely by an interest in the subject matter. The documentary filmmaker’s bias will determine how the audience interprets the killer, whether as a tortured genius or a simple demonic being. The creative team tries to include the perspectives of mental health specialists, police, and media, as shown in both Burari and Indian Predator. Yet, other aspects of filmmaking, such as camera cuts, dramatic reenactments, and voice-overs, can significantly affect the viewer’s emotional response.
Crime Stories are gaining popularity like no other!
More real crime documentaries will spark more debate and discussion about the ethical implications of including the filmmaker’s perspective on such sensitive situations. When does reporting on a crime become sensationalized?
True crime documentaries may seem more accessible to today’s audience than fictionalized films about Indian crime because they are more faithful to the genre’s historical precedent. The Indian Netflix originals may have dramatic elements. Still, they won’t be as dramatic as films like Main aur Charles, Shootout at Wadala, Rakta Charitra, etc., based on true stories of serial killers and gangsters.
