Valentine’s Day true crime that prove it’s better to be single

Sick of all the saccharine, loved up couples being plastered all over the screen? We’ve got you covered – here are the best true crime documentaries to watch over Valentine’s that prove sometimes it’s better to be single. 

Ah, Valentine’s Day – the most divisive holiday there is. For every loved up couple celebrating their relationship with chocolates and flowers, there are just as many out there who can’t stand the commercialization and societal pressures associated with it. 

If you fall into the latter camp, you’ll no doubt be glad to see the back of February 14. But even if you are a cupid at heart, you might have had your fill of romantic comedies and dramas at this point. 

So, whether you’re nursing a break-up, you don’t buy into Valentine’s Day, or you simply want crimes of passion on your watchlist, here are seven documentary films and series that prove sometimes it’s better to be single. 

Lover, Stalker, Killer (2024)

Online dating can be an absolute mindfield, but it’s not often it turns deadly. This is the unfortunate reality explored in Lover Stalker Killer, a documentary that delves into the shocking case of Dave Kroupa, Cari Farver, and Liz Golyar. After Dave’s divorce, he decided to put himself out there, looking for casual relationships. Little did he realize that this would lead him down a horrifying path of harassment, deception, and murder.  

Where to stream: Netflix

Escaping Twin Flames Universe (2023)

Last year, two documentary-series dropped on the Twin Flames Universe cult – Amazon Prime’s Desperately Seeking Soulmate: Escaping Twin Flames Universe and Netflix’s Escaping Twin Flames. Both are worth a watch in release order, lifting the veil on the controversial online community and its founders, Jeff and Shaleia Divine, who are accused of preying on those looking for love by using coercion, exploitation, and abuse. Finding “the one” shouldn’t ever be this sinister. 

Where to stream: Amazon Prime/Netflix

The Tinder Swindler (2022)

You might want to think twice before swiping right after watching The Tinder Swindler. One of the most talked-about true crime documentaries of 2022, this film delves into the shocking case of Simon Leviev – born Shimon Hayut – a conman who tricked numerous women into funding his lavish lifestyle. A truly stranger-than-fiction cautionary tale about the perils of dating in the tech era. 

Where to stream: Netflix

Crazy Love (2007)

They say people do crazy things when they’re in love… but Burt and Linda Pugach took this to another level. Set in the backdrop of 1950s New York City, Crazy Love examines how their romance took a dark turn when Burt, consumed by jealousy, orchestrated an acid attack on his ten-years-younger girlfriend Linda Riss, leaving her nearly completely blind and permanently disfigured. Despite the horrific act, which saw the attorney spend 14 years in prison, the pair later reunited and got married. The film’s gripping narrative and real-life drama make it a compelling watch, offering a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of love.

Where to stream: Dox via Amazon Prime

The Staircase (2004-2018)

The Staircase documentary series is, much like its namesake, staggered due to the many moving parts in the trial of Michael Peterson, accused of murdering his wife Kathleen. Eight episodes were released in 2004 following his indictment. In 2013, director Jean-Xavier de Lestrade dropped two follow-up episodes as Peterson was released from jail, pending a retrial. Then, cameras started shooting to document Peterson’s final trial, leading to three additional installments. The full 13-episode collection hit Netflix in 2018, introducing audiences old and new to the story about a mysterious staircase fall, the complexities of the justice system, and the hidden facets of relationships we don’t often hear about in our day-to-day lives.

Where to stream: Netflix

The Curious Case of Dalia Dippolito (2020)

Despite not having the backing of studios or streamers’ deep pockets, The Curious Case of Dalia Dippolito by true crime YouTuber JCS might just be one of, if not the most compelling documentary on this list. While Dippolito’s actions were sinister to say the least, what happened after the fact has to be seen to be believed. Through meticulous narration and real-life police footage, this film weaves a jaw-dropping tale, one that poses the question: how well do we really know our partners? 

Where to stream: YouTube

I Love You, Now Die (2019)

This 2019 documentary series directed by Erin Lee Carr delves into the tragic case of Conrad Roy III and Michelle Carter, examining the complex relationship between the two teenagers, the events leading up to Conrad’s suicide, and the legal aftermath. In a world first, Michelle went to trial over Conrad’s death – despite being miles away at the time. As well as exploring themes of mental health, I Love You, Now Die prompts viewers to contemplate the boundaries of responsibility in modern relationships and the power of words in influencing actions.

Where to stream: Hulu

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