My Father, the BTK Killer (2025) – Is it OK for kids? Age 16+

Movie details

Genres: Documentary, Crime
Director: Skye Borgman
Main cast: Kerri Rawson, Dennis Rader, Richard LaMunyon, Larry Hatteberg, Andrea Rogers
Country / region: United States of America
Original language: en
Premiere: 2025-10-09

Story overview

This documentary explores the harrowing personal story of Kerri Rawson, daughter of Dennis Rader, who was known as the BTK (Bind, Torture, Kill) serial killer. Through interviews with Rawson, law enforcement officials, and journalists, the film details her upbringing unaware of her father's crimes, the shocking revelation of his double life, and her ongoing emotional journey. It examines themes of family secrets, trauma, and resilience, focusing on the psychological impact on victims' families rather than sensationalizing the crimes themselves.

Parent Guide

This documentary examines the psychological impact of discovering a family member is a serial killer, with mature themes requiring parental discretion for viewers under 16.

Content breakdown

Violence & peril

Moderate

Includes detailed verbal descriptions of serial murders (binding, torture, killing) and crime scene discussions. No graphic visual depictions of violence, but crime scene photos may be shown briefly. Psychological violence and threat are central themes.

Scary / disturbing

Strong

Highly disturbing content involving serial murder, family betrayal, and psychological trauma. Themes of hidden evil within ordinary life may be particularly unsettling. Includes discussions of victims' experiences and family aftermath.

Language

Mild

May include occasional strong language in interview contexts or when quoting sources. Not a primary focus of the documentary.

Sexual content & nudity

None

No sexual content or nudity present.

Substance use

None

No depiction of substance use.

Emotional intensity

Strong

High emotional intensity throughout, focusing on trauma, betrayal, grief, and psychological distress. Interviews with the killer's daughter are particularly emotionally charged as she discusses her personal journey.

Parent tips

This documentary deals with mature themes of serial murder, family betrayal, and psychological trauma. While it avoids graphic crime scene visuals, it includes detailed discussions of violent acts and their aftermath. Recommended for mature teenagers with parental guidance. Parents should be prepared to discuss the nature of serial crimes, the concept of leading a double life, and the emotional impact on families. The film may be particularly disturbing for viewers who have experienced family trauma or violence.

Parent chat guide

This documentary provides an opportunity to discuss difficult but important topics: How can people hide terrible secrets from those closest to them? What does it mean to be resilient in the face of shocking revelations? How do families cope when a member commits horrific acts? You might ask: 'How do you think Kerri felt when she learned the truth about her father?' 'What does this story teach us about looking beyond surface appearances?' 'How can we support people who experience family trauma?' Focus on empathy, critical thinking about media portrayals of crime, and understanding complex family dynamics.

Parent follow-up questions

—

What would you do if you discovered a family secret?
Why is it important to talk about difficult feelings?

How does this documentary handle the balance between respecting victims and telling a compelling story?
What psychological factors might allow someone to lead such a double life?
How does media coverage affect our understanding of criminal cases?
What support systems help people recover from family trauma?

Trailer

Trailer playback is unavailable in your region.