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True Crime is the most in-demand genre in documentaries right now, and for good reason. It is compelling television, and despite it being fully drenched in violence, it has a calming effect desired by millions.
The most popular idea is that we love true crime is because we are relieved we are not the victim or perpetrator, but the true crime shows on ID Discovery like, “Homicide Hunter with Joe Kenda”, “Evil In This House”, and “See No Evil” are infinitely addicting for a much deeper reason than just Schadenfreude.
These shows simulate catharsis, one of the most powerful human experiences we can feel. The process of releasing, and thereby relieving ourselves from strong and repressed feelings is the basis for us seeking quality storytelling. It’s a tale as old as time:
1. Terrible thing happens
2. Someone finds out who did it and why
3. The good guys win by holding the culprit accountable for their actions.
4. Society and the self is healed.
True Crime shows work this narrative exceptionally well. A horrific crime happens in a community that looks like yours, a real person finds out what happened using…
