10 Awesome Recent Movies You Probably Missed

True crime movies are often a mixed bag and, based on the middling reviews Boston Stranger received, many will have no doubt assumed this was just another by-the-numbers true crime pic. Actually, not at all. In stark contrast to some true crime films, which are just filmed Wikipedia articles lifted up by a good cast (The Good Nurse is an epitomising example of this trend), Boston Strangler is a gripping and thought-provoking exploration of the infamous Boston Strangler serial killings.

The cast is excellent, with the movie being led by the strong double-act of Keira Knightley and Carrie Coon. They're backed up by a stellar supporting cast, which includes David Dastmalchian and several noted character actors, including Chris Cooper and Bill Camp. Satisfyingly, though, they're not the only ones holding the picture up.

Writer-director Matt Ruskin does a remarkable job, with his atmospheric direction and layered screenplay buoying the efforts of his cast. Additionally, Boston Stranger actually deviates from the official version of events, and explores the long-standing theory that the murders were the work of several men, rather than the lone convicted killer (Dastmalchian).

Admittedly, Boston Strangler doesn't entirely avoid cliches and it could've done more to explore some of its themes, but it's so much better than the indifferent critical reception suggested. This one isn't just for the true crime faithful.