Criminologist Reviews Serial Killers From Movies & TV | Vanity Fair

Summary

This video script explores the portrayal of serial killers in media, contrasting it with real-life experiences and insights from criminologist David Wilson. It delves into the characteristics of organized versus disorganized killers, the role of sexual fantasy in their crimes, and various stereotypes depicted in films and TV shows. The script challenges the idea of a 'serial killer gene' and emphasizes the need to focus on vulnerable groups to reduce serial murder incidents.

Takeaways

• 🎬 The script discusses various portrayals of serial killers in media, highlighting the differences between fictional depictions and real-life characteristics.
• 🍽️ A famous quote from 'The Silence of the Lambs' is mentioned, emphasizing the sophistication and chilling nature of some serial killers, such as Hannibal Lecter.
• 🔎 The script differentiates between organized and disorganized serial killers, noting the traits and behaviors associated with each classification.
• 🕵️‍♂️ It explains the concept of 'modus operandi' (MO) and 'signature' in the context of serial killer profiling, illustrating how these elements can differ.
• 🧬 The idea of 'serial killer genes' is debunked, emphasizing that there is no single genetic factor that predisposes individuals to become serial killers.
• 🎭 The portrayal of serial killers in shows like 'Mindhunter' is touched upon, noting the authenticity of some aspects based on real interviews with serial killers.
• 🤔 The script challenges common stereotypes about serial killers, such as their intelligence and the idea that they are super predators.
• 🏥 It mentions the medicalized nature of some killings, suggesting a connection to the medical field in certain cases.
• 👥 The script points out that serial killers can come from various backgrounds and are not limited to a specific demographic, such as white-collar professionals.
• 👁️ The importance of understanding the victim selection by serial killers is highlighted, with a call to focus on protecting vulnerable groups rather than trying to 'get inside the killer's mind'.
• 🚫 The script concludes with a critique of certain Hollywood portrayals, arguing that they often miss the mark in terms of the motivations and behaviors of real serial killers.

Q & A

What is the significance of the quote 'I ate his liver with some fava beans and a nice Chianti' in the context of the script?

This quote is from the movie 'The Silence of the Lambs' and is used in the script to illustrate the character Hannibal Lecter's chilling demeanor and the dark humor associated with his acts of cannibalism. It also serves as an example of the way serial killers may engage in pantomimic behavior, as mentioned by David Wilson.

According to David Wilson, what are the basic FBI binary classifications for serial killers?

The basic FBI binary classifications for serial killers are organized and disorganized. Organized killers bring with them the tools needed to incapacitate their victims and often exhibit traits such as employment, higher intelligence, and the ability to drive a car. Disorganized killers, on the other hand, do not plan their crimes as meticulously.

What is the difference between an 'act focused' and a 'process focused' serial killer as described in the script?

An 'act focused' serial killer is primarily interested in the act of killing itself, seeking a quick end to their victims' lives. In contrast, a 'process focused' serial killer is interested in extending the time they have with their victims, deriving pleasure from the fear and suffering they induce, often through methods like bondage and torture.

How does the script differentiate between the portrayal of serial killers in movies and the reality of serial murder?

The script differentiates by highlighting the cliches and stereotypes often used in movies, such as the super intelligent, mission-oriented, or transvestite serial killer. It contrasts these portrayals with the reality that serial killers are often 'beta males' trying to become 'alpha males,' and may be socially isolated or have a history of failure. The script emphasizes that serial killers are typically ordinary and blend into society to maintain access to potential victims.

What is the role of sexual fantasy in the development of a serial killer according to the script?

Sexual fantasy plays a significant role in the development of a serial killer. The script suggests that serial murder often starts from a sexual fantasy that grows over time until the individual wants to make it real. This fantasy can involve elements of control, power, and violence, which the killer seeks to actualize through their crimes.

How does the script describe the character of Dexter from the TV show 'Dexter'?

Dexter is described as a 'mission-oriented serial killer' who targets other serial killers. He is portrayed as an organized killer with a very elaborate modus operandi (MO) and a unique signature. His killings are characterized by a medicalized context, with the use of poisons and a specific kill room, which is not common in real-life serial killers but has been seen among healthcare professionals who became serial killers.

What is the significance of the term 'overkill' in the context of serial killers?

The term 'overkill' refers to the use of much greater violence than is necessary to achieve the goal of killing the victim. It is associated with the idea that the killer is taking body parts as trophies or is engaging in extreme acts of violence to assert power and control. The script mentions 'overkill' in the context of the movie 'Se7en' and the increasing occurrence of such acts during the pandemic.

How does the script address the misconception of a 'serial killer gene'?

The script dismisses the idea of a 'serial killer gene' as an attractive but false concept. It emphasizes that serial killers are not defined by a specific genetic makeup but rather by their actions and the social and psychological factors that contribute to their behavior.

What are some of the common misconceptions about serial killers that the script aims to clarify?

The script clarifies several misconceptions, including the idea that serial killers are always super intelligent, have a specific gene that makes them killers, or that they are easily identifiable by their appearance or behavior. It also dispels the notion that serial killers are always white collar professionals or that they are motivated by transgressive sexual identities.

What is the role of the media in shaping public perception of serial killers, as discussed in the script?

The media plays a significant role in shaping public perception by often portraying serial killers with cliches and stereotypes, such as being super intelligent, having a specific mission, or engaging in extreme acts of violence. The script points out that these portrayals are not accurate representations of real-life serial killers, who are typically more ordinary and blend into society.

How does the script suggest that society can reduce the incidence of serial murder?

The script suggests that focusing on the groups that serial killers target, such as the elderly, sex workers, and the homeless, can help reduce the incidence of serial murder. It also encourages challenging homophobia and having a mature debate about policing those who sell sexual services. The emphasis is on understanding the vulnerability of certain groups in society and addressing those issues.