Documentaries, originally called “actuality films,” have been around to provide us with information through visuals since pre-1900. They have helped us learn more about topics we may have been ignorant about or misinformed on. Most recently, there has been an increased popularity in documentaries about serial killers.

They are not only seen on TV through documentaries. Serial killers and their stories have been gaining interest of watchers everywhere lately. CBS’ “Dexter” takes audiences on a ride through the killer’s emotions, or lack thereof, as he commits his crimes, killing only other killers or people he deems unjust. Of course, viewers root for Dexter Morgan, the main character, who appears to be doing a good deed by eliminating the monsters in society. However, his motive is less valorous, as he kills to suppress a need, a craving inside him, and justifies his actions by seeking out those other monsters. Viewers can be misled in their perception of Dexter because of the way he portrays and carries out his character.

This is a topic of hot debate, stemming from the release of “Conversations With A Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes” on Netflix. This series has been watched by many people of Netflix users, and the reviews have stirred up controversy. People have been saying they are attracted to Ted Bundy. Many people are shaming them for feeling this way. However, his charismatic character, smug smile and bright eyes combined with his ability to deceive so easily is what made his crimes easy to get away with.

Along with the Netflix series, a movie about the infamous killer, “Extremely Wicked, Shocking Evil and Vile” is in the works as well, starring heartthrob Zac Efron.

The choice of Zac Effron has people disgusted and disappointed, as people will only further romanticize Bundy. Some claim portraying Bundy as attractive is disrespectful to the women he murdered and makes society ignore how horrible a human he was.

The portrayal and reviews are not the problem, though. Refusing to acknowledge the attractive appearance and charismatic character of Bundy is the problem. It is important we acknowledge his looks and his character, what made women swoon and attractive to him. Ignoring the attractive parts of Bundy only leaves room for others to get away with similar crimes for the same reason. Most would not expect a serial killer to be attractive. Assuming a killer would be equally unattractive on the outside as it is on the inside is one assumption that is more dangerous in the long run. Murderers can be attractive. Rapists can be attractive. Acting like they cannot be or were not is ignorant.