What is Memories of a Murderer about?

Netflix’s latest documentary, Memories of a Murderer: The Nilsen Tapes, follows the true and horrific story of Dennis Nilsen. As one of Britain’s most notorious serial killers, Nilsen is responsible for the confirmed death of 12 victims (all men or young boys) and the attempted murder of several others.

Nilsen’s infamous killing spree occurred between 1978 and 1983 while he lived in North London. He would lure his victims into his home with the promise of alcohol and/or shelter. Once inside, Nilsen would strangle his victims until they died or became unconscious. He would then resort to drowning his unconscious victims in his bath or sink.

After being arrested, Nilsen willingly told the police that he had rotting corpses in his home and claimed to have killed 15 or 16 men since 1978. Since Nilsen did not recall all of his victim’s names, the police were only able to arrest him for the murders of victims with confirmed identities.

Nilsen was given a life sentence and died on May 12, 2008 at the age of 72. 

What is Memories of a Murderer about?

The documentary film is directed by Michael Harte and includes real recordings of Nilsen himself, which have never been publicly released until now. The audio was recorded on cassette tapes while Nilsen sat in prison. The tapes dive deep into Nilsen’s twisted life and mind as he recalls how he was able to commit each violent crime and sweep himself under the radar for years.

Memories of a Murderer will also include interviews with family members of his victims and even survivors of Nilsen’s acts. Other interviewees include officers and journalists who were involved with the original case.

Harte was given access to the recordings found in a personal archive left in Nilsen’s cell after his passing. The archive is said to include over 250 hours of Nilsen talking about his life from his childhood to the methods behind his killings as an adult.

Memories of a Murderer release date and time

Memories of a Murderer will be released on Netflix on Wednesday, Aug. 18 at 12:01 a.m. PT. This is a definite watch for true crime enthusiasts or those interested in Nilsen’s case. You can watch the chilling documentary now on Netflix.