From the fiery Branch Davidian siege in Waco, Texas to his infamous religious teachings, David Koresh’s life and legacy has been a source of fascination for decades. Now, with an ever-growing collection of documentaries exploring this enigmatic figure, audiences have more insight than ever into the man behind one of America’s most notorious cults. Whether you’re looking for an in-depth exploration or a brief overview, these 14 documentaries about David Koresh provide viewers with diverse perspectives on his story and reveal why he still captivates our attention today.
1. David Koresh: The Final 24
April 18, 1993. David Koresh and 83 of his followers were surrounded by authorities in their Waco, Texas compound for over 50 days. This documentary chronicles the final 24 hours of this historic standoff through archival footage, interviews and dramatic reenactments. Learn about one of the most notorious religious leaders in United States history with David Koresh: The Final 24!
2. Witness To Waco – MSNBC Documentary – Cult David Koresh Branch Davidians
David Koresh was a religious cult leader in the late 1980s and early 1990s. His followers, known as Branch Davidians, met an unfortunate end when their compound was consumed by fire. This documentary provides an exclusive insight into the life of Koresh and his followers through interviews with Rick Ross, a leading Cult Expert via CultEducation.com. Get a unique look into this controversial group and its leader in “Witness to Waco”.
3. Secrets of Waco
The 1993 tragedy that unfolded in Waco, Texas was shocking and devastating. Now a retired UPS driver reveals new details about cult leader David Koresh and the events leading up to the deadly standoff with law enforcement. This documentary takes a closer look at this infamous incident which changed history. Get an unprecedented look into what happened 25 years ago with “48 Hours” correspondent Peter Van Sant as he investigates the secrets of Waco. Don’t miss this powerful story on Pluto TV!
4. 51 Days in Waco : The Siege on the Branch Davidians
David Koresh is a name that evokes strong emotions for many people. But who was he, and what were the Branch Davidians? In this documentary, we look at the 51-day siege in Waco Texas and investigate whether or not 81 people deserved to die in their own home due to one man’s alleged crimes. Dive into history with us as we explore these questions and more!
5. Rare interview with David Koresh inside Waco compound
David Koresh’s infamous Waco compound siege in 1993 still remains one of the most controversial stand-offs between US law enforcement and a religious cult. In this rare interview, A Current Affair reporter Martin King was invited inside the Texas compound to talk with David Koresh himself. Get an insight into what happened behind closed doors leading up to the fire that ended the standoff. Watch now for exclusive footage from inside the Waco compound!
6. David Koresh: The Leader Of His Army Of God – Murder Made me Famous
David Koresh was the leader of a religious cult known as the Branch Davidians. His “Army of God” became infamous when they were involved in a deadly 51-day standoff with the Federal Government that resulted in four ATF agents being killed and over 80 Davidians perishing. This documentary dives into what happened during this dramatic event, from Koresh stockpiling weapons to prepare for an apocalypse, to allegations of sexual activity with minors, all leading up to the FBI raid on their compound and eventual burning down of their holy center after the bloody stand off. Find out more about this notorious figure who ultimately died by suicide after his life spiraling out of control. (1993)
7. The 1993 Waco Branch Davidian Tragedy Revisited: What Really Happened?
If you’ve been curious about the Waco Branch Davidian tragedy that occurred in 1993, this is your chance to find out what really happened. Join four experts who have done extensive research on the event and discover a deep dive into the facts, rumors, and conspiracy theories surrounding it. This documentary will provide an open discussion between those involved and give you all of the information necessary to form your own opinion on why Waco happened. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to uncover the truth for yourself!
8. The Last Recorded Words of David Koresh April 16 & 18, 1993
This video provides a glimpse into the final days of David Koresh and his Branch Davidian religious community at Mt Carmel Center. In it, you will hear the last recorded words of David Koresh as he negotiated with an FBI negotiator to peacefully surrender and come out with his community. Dr. James D. Tabor produced this recording in 1995 based on live FBI negotiation tapes now part of public domain. It is chilling to hear given the optimism and positive attitudes just three days before the unexpected tank and CS-Gas attack that ultimately led to their tragic deaths in a fire (Men 41; Women 46; Children 43). Learn more about this tragedy which was completely unnecessary from initial SWAT team raid on February 28th to the CS Gas attach on April 19th by watching this documentary about The Last Recorded Words of David Koresh April 16 & 18, 1993!
9. Inside the Deadly Waco Siege Negotiations – I Was There
The Waco siege of 1993 was a stand-off between the ATF and the Branch Davidians, led by leader David Koresh. This documentary takes you inside this deadly siege, with exclusive interviews from those who were there. Learn about the events leading up to and during this tragedy and how it unfolded through an in-depth look into the negotiations that took place at Mount Carmel Center, home of 91 members including 25 children. Get an understanding of what happened during this eventful chapter in history as we explore one of America’s most notorious cults – The Branch Davidians under Vernon Howell (David Koresh).
10. A Mother & Daughter Who Were Both Married to Cult Leader David Koresh
On March 25, 1993, Oprah had a powerful conversation with Jeannine and Robyn Bunds – a mother-daughter pair who were married to Branch Davidian cult leader David Koresh. In this video, get an in-depth look at the degree of control that Koresh had over his followers as well as insight into how his mind worked. Hear from the women about their life on the compound and how they questioned Koresh’s manipulative behavior. Don’t miss this chance to explore one of the most notorious cult leaders in history!
11. Who killed the Branch Davidians in the end? – WACO Siege
Discover the story of David Koresh and the Branch Davidians, a religious cult led by a self-proclaimed prophet who stockpiled weapons in preparation for the apocalypse. Learn about their infamous 51-day standoff with Federal agents that ended with four ATF agents dead and over 80 Davidian members killed when their holy compound was burned down. Find out how it all ended as we explore who killed the Branch Davidians in this documentary about Waco Siege.
12. David Koresh: The Life that Lead to Waco
The enigmatic David Koresh is a figure that continues to fascinate us. He was the leader of a small religious group in Waco, Texas who believed he was the Messiah and gained control over his followers through manipulation and sexual desires. This documentary dives deep into his life and reveals what ultimately led him to Armageddon. Get ready for an eye-opening exploration of this mysterious man’s history!
13. Waco siege 1993
The Waco siege of 1993 was a nationwide news story, as the United States’ ATF and FBI attempted to search the heavily armed property of a religious cult known as The Branch Davidians. This video documents the entire event from start to finish, with special attention paid to the last 30 minutes which are uploaded in Part 2. Get an inside look at one of America’s most infamous sieges!
14. The Rockstar Who Created A Cult To Violate Underage Girls
Have you heard of one of the most shocking true crime cases in history? A man who used his charm and knowledge of religion to convince hundreds of people that he was a divine being. This is the story of David Koresh, leader of the Branch Davidians – an offshoot from Seventh-Day Adventists – in the early 1990s. It’s a gripping account about how this psychopathic man abused girls and convinced many to join his cult. In this documentary, we explore what led to David Koresh becoming such an influential figure, as well as delving into the disturbing events that occurred during his reign over his followers. Get all your questions answered here!