OTT crime shows based on memoirs: 'Khakee', 'Scoop' and more

With their powerful plotlines, unexpected twists, and nuanced portrayals of reality, true crime stories always manage to arrest our attention. Beyond the thrill, they also expose the loopholes in the law, society, and system, striking a chord with audiences instantly. Interestingly, some of the most popular web shows are based on memoirs. They detail the firsthand experiences of the people who witnessed the crime up close, often from within the system itself. From illegal drug peddling to human sacrifices, the writers have lived it all. Their narratives were so compelling that they inspired filmmakers to bring them to life, making them into binge-worthy series.

Here are a few crime shows adapted from personal memoirs.

Based on the personal memoir ‘Black Warrant: Confessions of a Tihar Jailer, ’ the web show is entertaining, gritty, and emotionally moving all at once. The chief author, Sunil Gupta, was the then jailer of the Tihar Jail who witnessed the pathetic life of the inmates very closely. And the co-author, Sunetra Choudhury, was a crime reporter. Just like the book, the show depicts the infamous Ranga Billa execution, gang wars, drug peddling, and the author's meeting with criminal Charles Sobhraj. Moreover, it also shows Sunil Gupta’s efforts and his battle against the system to make the jail a better place for the inmates. You can watch Sunil Gupta's tenure as a jailor on Netflix.

Directed by renowned filmmaker Hansal Mehta, the web show tells the story of a journalist falsely accused of murdering her colleague. Based on crime journalist Jigna Vohra’s memoir ‘Behind Bars in Byculla’, the web show gives a sneak peek into Mumbai’s flawed police system. Jagruti Vohra (Karishma Tanna) is falsely accused of murdering her colleague. As all evidence points towards her, Jagruti fights the system and the society all alone. As we delve deeper into the 6-episode series, we get a deeper insight into how the Mumbai police, the underworld, media, and politicians work hand in glove to benefit their own selfish needs. Watch Jigna battle all odds only on Netflix.

Adapted from journalist Sandip Unnithan's book ‘Black Tornado: The Three Sieges of Mumbai 26/11', the book gives a closer look at the infamous Hotel Taj attack. It talks about the NSG’s rescue operation, Black Tornado. From the lens of the commandos in action, we get to know the lesser-known aspects of the ghastly crime. Along with shedding light on NSG operations, the series also gives us a sneak peek into the minds of the perpetrators. Moreover, it also details the experiences of the casualties, the hotel staff, and the family members of the deceased. Watch the NSG commandos conduct the Indian Army's most successful rescue operation on Zee5.

Directed by Neeraj Pandey, this web series is based on the personal memoir of IPS officer Amit Lodha. The name of the book is ‘Bihar Diaries: The True Story of How Bihar's Most Dangerous Criminal Was Caught’. It details the firsthand accounts of Amit Lodha during his tenure in Bihar. The web show covers the case of Bihar’s notorious mafia lord responsible for killings, murders, and extortions. Moreover, it also exposes the police, politicians, and mafia nexus, responsible for the disruption of law in the state. Grab your popcorn and watch SP Amit Lodha chase Bihar's most wanted criminal on Netflix.

If you’re a fan of web shows that expose the murky realities of the system and law, then this show is worth your watchlist. Based on the book ‘Trial by Fire: The Tragic Tale of the Uphaar Fire Tragedy’, the web show documents the journey of parents who have lost their children in the accident. Neelam and Shekhar Krishnamoothy lost their children in 1997 in the fire that broke out at Uphar Cinema in Delhi. Like the book, the web show sheds light on the parents' grief, their longing for justice, and their long-awaited tussle with the loopholes of law. This emotionally wrenching crime series is available on Netflix.

This gritty web series is a memoir adaptation scripted by former Maharashtra Director General of Police Ramakant Kulkarni. The book titled ‘Footprints on the Sands of Crime’ will keep you hooked till the last page. During his tenure in the 1970’s, Ramakant had earned the moniker ‘Sherlock Holmes of India’ due to his razor-sharp investigative instincts. Much like the book, the web show depicts the grisly unsolved murders occurring in Maharashtra. It also sheds light on the superstitions prevailing during the time that paved the way for crimes like human sacrifices. You can watch the series on SonyLIV.