National Geographic’s Killer Lies: The Dark Secrets of a Serial Killer Expert

Premiering on August 28th at 8/7c on Nat Geo and streaming the next day on Hulu, Killer Lies: Chasing a True Crime Con Man offers a riveting and innovative take on the true-crime documentary genre. The three-part series dives deep into the rise and eventual downfall of Stéphane Bourgoin, a self-proclaimed expert on serial killers who captivated audiences for decades—until a group of internet sleuths uncovered his dark web of lies. Produced by The New Yorker Studios and Left/Right, this gripping exploration, directed by Emmy®-nominated filmmaker Ben Selkow, deftly blends investigative journalism, cinematic flair, and an examination of the psychology behind deception.

Based on Lauren Collins’s 2022 New Yorker exposé “Murder, He Wrote,” the series tracks Bourgoin’s meteoric rise to fame as a celebrated true-crime author and expert, boasting 40 years of research and interviews with infamous murderers. His supposed personal tragedy—the murder of his wife in 1976—was the driving force behind his obsession. But everything unravels when an online group, 4ème Oeil Corporation (4th Eye), steps in to investigate and ultimately dismantles Bourgoin’s carefully constructed narrative.

Selkow’s direction is a masterstroke of pacing and style. Unlike many true-crime documentaries that move at a slower, more deliberate pace, Killer Lies thrives on a fast, engaging tempo. Through clever editing, the film weaves together interviews, archival footage, and reexamined clips from Bourgoin’s past television appearances. The transitions between these elements are fluid, demanding the viewer’s full attention as the story unfolds through a continuous, interactive flow. The film’s cinematography elevates the experience further, with a unique approach that immerses the viewer in the past by playing archival footage on vintage televisions, as if they’re witnessing history as it happened. This artistic decision adds a layer of nostalgia and authenticity that enhances the overall impact.

One of the most commendable aspects of Killer Lies is its attention to detail. From the color grading to the intricate use of sound effects and music, every element has been meticulously crafted to create a seamless narrative experience. The editing, in particular, stands out, providing a refreshing new take on the genre. It’s an engaging and dynamic approach that breathes new life into true crime documentaries, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre and filmmakers alike.

Bourgoin’s story is not just a tale of personal deception—it’s a meta-commentary on the global fascination with true crime and the extent to which people are willing to believe in charismatic experts. Through interviews with the 4th Eye members, who speak on camera for the first time, viewers gain insight into the meticulous efforts of amateur detectives whose determination ultimately brought Bourgoin down. The film takes us inside Bourgoin’s mind, showing how his compulsions to lie were driven by a mixture of ego, ambition, and a morbid obsession with death and violence.

Killer Lies also prompts viewers to question the ethical lines in true crime storytelling. With true crime having become a massive entertainment industry, this series examines the darker side of the genre—the consequences of glorifying those who claim expertise in human depravity without ever questioning their motives or methods. The inclusion of Collins’s sharp investigative work grounds the documentary in journalistic rigor, offering a profound exploration of how fact and fiction become blurred in the pursuit of fame.

In addition to Killer Lies, Nat Geo offers more compelling content for true crime enthusiasts. Cult Massacre: One Day in Jonestown explores the tragic end of Jim Jones’ religious movement, which resulted in the death of 918 people. Meanwhile, Cursed Gold: A Shipwreck Scandal tells the fascinating story of a scientist who discovers a deep-ocean shipwreck filled with gold, sparking unexpected turmoil.

Ultimately, Killer Lies: Chasing a True Crime Con Man is a triumph in the true crime genre. It not only peels back the layers of Stéphane Bourgoin’s deception but also presents a thought-provoking reflection on society’s insatiable appetite for stories of death and intrigue. Selkow and his team have produced a film that feels fresh, immersive, and deeply engaging. Whether you’re a true crime aficionado or simply someone who appreciates innovative filmmaking, this series is well worth watching.