'Intriguing' and 'compelling' film based on horrific real-life murders airing tonight

A chilling true crime film based on a series of grisly, real-life murders is about to air on Channel 4.

Viewers will either be able to tune in tonight at 10:35 on Channel 4Seven, or stream it completely free with adverts on the channel’s online streaming platform.

Compared to the iconic serial killer film Zodiac and starring beloved actresses Keira Knightley and Carrie Coon, Boston Strangler is a must-watch for true crime buffs.

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Set in 1960s Boston, this 2023 thriller follows reporters Loretta McLaughlin (played by Knightley) and Jean Cole (Coon), who investigate the horrific murders of 13 women for the Boston Record American.

Viewers will discover more about not only the obscene crimes and the killer’s victims, but also about the systemic sexism that almost prevented the story from reaching the public.

Originally released by Hulu and available to stream on Disney+, those of you who haven’t shelled out for a subscription to the streaming service now have the chance to watch free of charge.

Though it currently has a respectable 67 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, it has gained a cult following of true crime fans who all agree this sharply written and atmospheric take on a notorious part of Boston history is well worth a watch.

One five-star user review declared: “This movie was excellent. Great acting, intriguing true crime story, smart dialogue. I am shocked that the reviews aren't higher!”

Another fan agreed: “Boston Strangler offers an intriguing retelling of the notorious murders that shook 1960s Boston, with compelling performances from Keira Knightley and Carrie Coon.”

Praise continued over on Letterboxd where one rave write-up claimed Boston Strangler is even more “layered” than Zodiac thanks to its feminist themes.

“This film has enough confidence in the real story it’s telling (more layered than the one zodiac tackles because it's also about the real lives of the female investigative journalists involved) that it doesn't feel the need to lean too hard on a shallow yet popular version of the killer's mythology,” they continued.

“Instead it paints a bleak but realistic picture of a decentralized investigation and an urban myth swept under the rug by fatigued institutions desperate to placate a terrified and even more fatigued public. The performances were exactly what they needed to be for this kind of film.”

And a final fan concurred: “Huge huge huge zodiac vibes but honestly in a good way, very thorough storytelling and while the ending was a little interesting for me I still loved the movie a lot none of the less.

“Fantastic casting as well and the music and cinematography were a lot better than I was expected for what I assume was a straight to hulu release from 20th century fox.

“Anyways it’s great and if you like zodiac you’re going to like this I promise you!”

Now the autumnal nights are starting to draw in, will you be making plans to delve into this gripping true crime film this week?

Boston Strangler is available to stream on Channel 4.