A 'haunting' true crime documentary that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats is now available to stream for free, and it is perfect for fans of Netflix's Mindhunter.
To Think Like a Killer, also known as Mastermind: To Think Like a Killer, originally premiered in 2024 on Hulu and Disney Plus. The three-part series follows Dr Ann Burgess, a pioneering psychiatric nurse who assisted the FBI in developing criminal profiling techniques for serial killers.
The documentary transports viewers back to the 1980s, focusing on Dr Burgess' work with the Behaviour Science Unit and her groundbreaking research into the minds of dangerous offenders. All three episodes are now streaming on BBC iPlayer at no cost, though a viewer warning states the series 'contains sexual violence and disturbing scenes.'
What Is 'To Think Like a Killer' About?
An official synopsis reads: 'To get justice, she got inside their minds. In the 1980s, trailblazing Dr Ann Burgess revolutionised how the FBI and the world hunts criminals, and transformed justice for victims.' The series explores how serial killers plan and execute their chilling crimes, offering insights into their psychology through expert interviews.
It has been widely praised as the perfect watch for fans of Netflix's Mindhunter, which was cancelled after two seasons. One IMDb reviewer wrote that it 'follows a complex web of schemes and betrayals, keeping you guessing at every turn. With its smart dialogue and clever plot twists, it demands your full attention and rewards you with edge-of-your-seat suspense.'
Critical Acclaim and Viewer Reactions
Another reviewer called it 'a gripping true-crime documentary that delves into the minds of some of history's most notorious criminals.' A third branded it a 'haunting exploration of the criminal mind,' adding: 'Mastermind: To Think Like a Killer is a must-watch for anyone interested in true crime, psychology, or the human condition. It is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the dark side of human nature, and a tribute to the extraordinary woman who dared to confront it.'
The series holds an 83% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. One review stated: 'For anyone who liked Mindhunter (RIP), this show centres around Ann Burgess, the real-life inspiration for the character Wendy. A true crime show centred around Burgess is LONG overdue, and I'm thrilled that this one does her justice.'
On TikTok, one true crime fan admitted they 'haven't stopped thinking about it,' adding: 'It was incredible. If you watched Mindhunter that unfortunately got cancelled, watch this.' Similarly, an X user wrote: 'Just watched this on #DisneyPlus, absolutely brilliant. And what a truly incredible lady Dr. Ann Burgess is. That woman was sent from God to make the world a better place.'
To Think Like a Killer is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
