has there ever been a book or movie where the story is told by the killer in 1st person p.o.v.?

Question

i am a writer. has there ever been a book or movie where the story is told by the killer in 1st person p.o.v. i have an idea to work with, and i want to write something that has never been done before. any suggestions/comments?

Answer 1

Truman Capote In Cold Blood I think was written that way.
You'd have to be very careful with story, because if the killer is your main character, people will have a hard time identifying with him/her and that might turn people off of the story.

Answer 2

You can google the literary term "unreliable narrator" and it will give you plenty of examples. I can't believe nobody mentioned "The Murder of Roger Ackroyd". That's the book that started it all! It's by the Queen herself - Agatha Christie. BUT It is more of a shocker, the killer is the main character, he narrates the events but only in the end does he reveal that he is the killer. So only the last chapter is twisted and dark. The Dexter and the Hannibal series are probably perfect for the demonic speeches you are looking for. Although Hannibal books are usually narrated by "the detective". Last but not least you can read almost anything from James Patterson. His books usually follow the killer and the detective simultaneously. There are plenty of gruesome descriptions! And lastly I can recommend Justice Wargrave's letter from "And Then There Were None", another thriller by Agatha C. He is the killer and he confesses everything in a letter at the end of the book, in a similar manner Dr. Shepard does in "The Murder of Roger Ackryod". P.S. You can also read "Endless Night" by Agatha C.

Answer 3

I have a suggestion. Although not told in the first person, this movie may still give you ideas. If you haven't seen the French movie "Man Bites Dog", directed by Remy Belvaux, Andre Bonzel, and Benoit Poelvoord. This 1992 has a film crew following a serial killer/thief as he expounds his theories on life, and has been known to offend some viewers. I won't say any more, other than the French name "C'est arrive pres de chez vous" means - It's Coming Close to You.

Answer 4

The Dexter Series by Jeff Lindsay

Answer 5

The Murder of Roger Ackroyd by Agatha Christy

Answer 6

that is a good idea it probly has been done but i'd like to see how it works out .. i'd like to read it =] and when you become famous and publish your book or books please contact me and tell me what there called i shall buy or borrow them haha =] good luck xx

Answer 7

not that i know of. Just make people be able to relate if you do. He has to be real, people need to understand his motives