Ep 1. Scream

CopyCat Killers is a true-crime series that explores murders that were inspired by Hollywood blockbusters. Each episode examines real-life homicides and compares them to their big-screen counterparts to reveal the eerie similarities. In season 1, episode 1 titled "Scream," we see how one of the most iconic horror films of the 90s, "Scream," became a deadly inspiration for an obsessed teenager.

The episode begins in the small town of Milbank, South Dakota, in 2001. The community is shocked when news breaks of the brutal murder of 16-year-old Adrianne Reynolds. The police investigation quickly leads to the arrest of two teenagers, Sarah Kolb and Cory Gregory. But as the details of the case unfold, it becomes clear that the motive behind the killing is more sinister than anyone could have imagined.

We learn that Sarah Kolb, the primary perpetrator in the case, was obsessed with the movie "Scream." Like the film's villain, she was determined to kill someone and get away with it. And so, she recruited Cory, her boyfriend at the time, to help her carry out her twisted plan.

The case is full of shocking details. The teenagers brutally beat Adrianne, dismembered her body, and then burned her remains in a barrel. The investigation draws parallels between the murder and the iconic horror film.

The episode features interviews with law enforcement officials who worked on the case, as well as family members and friends of the victim and the perpetrators. They provide insights into the disturbing minds of the teenage killers and help to paint a picture of what led to the senseless act of violence.

Viewers also get a glimpse into Sarah Kolb's background and mental state leading up to the murder. She was known for being troubled, engaging in self-harm, and displaying erratic behavior. The show explores how her obsession with "Scream" may have served as a dangerous trigger that led to the senseless murder of Adrianne.

Throughout the episode, expert criminologists and psychologists weigh in on the case and compare it to the movie that inspired it. They discuss how pop culture can influence individuals, particularly those who may already be vulnerable or unstable.

Overall, "Scream" is a shocking and heartbreaking story of a cold-blooded murder that was inspired by a classic horror film. The episode provides a deeper look into the complexities of the case, and the devastating impact it had on the victim's family and the entire town of Milbank. It's a cautionary tale about the dangerous power of media and the disturbing consequences that can arise when it goes unchecked.