The Element of Crime (1984)

Fisher, an ex-detective, decides to take one final case when a mysterious serial killer claims the lives of several young girls. Fisher, unable to find the culprit, turns to Osbourne, a writer who was once respected for his contributions to the field of criminology. Fisher begins to use Osbourne's technique, which involves empathizing with serial killers; however, as the detective becomes increasingly engrossed in this method, things take a disturbing turn.

Genres: Crime, Drama, Science Fiction

What to watch after The Element of Crime

• The House That Jack Built (2018) — Same feel: dark, disturbing
• Nymphomaniac: Vol. II (2013) — Lars von Trier directed both
• The Idiots (1998) — Lars von Trier directed both
• The Ninth Gate (1999) — Same feel: dark, philosophical
• Antibodies (2005) — Same subject: police officer
• Bleeder (1999) — Same subject: murder