Innovation in true crime: generic transformation in documentary series

Abstract

ABSTRACT This discussion explores innovation in true crime programming on streaming platforms and on-demand catch up broadcast television services. Altered consumption habits from long form programming and binge viewing on streaming services has prompted innovations in factual content through docuseries. Commencing with Reality Television police procedurals such as the long running US series Cops ([1989–2023]. Cops. TV Series. Fox. 1989–2013, 2023. Paramount Network 2013–2020. Fox Nation 2021–2023), the true crime genre has expanded into long-form docuseries. This expansion coincides with streaming platforms that service contemporary consumption habits based on unscheduled, on-demand spectatorship practices. Underbelly ([2008–2022]. Underbelly. TV Series. Screentime; Nine Network) is an Australian true crime franchise and early innovator of true crime serialisation. Spanning both broadcast and streaming eras, Underbelly serves as a counterpoint in this discussion of innovations in long-form documentary serialisation in the Netflix programs, Making a Murderer ([2015–2018]. Making a Murderer. TV Series. Synthesis Films; Netflix) and The Staircase ([2004–2018]. The Staircase. TV Series. Canal+, Episodes 1–10. Netflix, Episodes 11–13). Discussion of each series reveals how narrative innovation functions as generic transformation in response to new television on-demand platforms and delivery modes.