Fans of Netflix have been captivated by a Zac Efron movie that has been watched for an impressive 27 million hours. Some viewers have even gone so far as to watch it multiple times.
This film delves into one of the most notorious true crime stories, offering a fresh perspective on a well-known serial killer.
Zac Efron has consistently demonstrated his versatility as an actor, a far cry from his early career days as Troy Bolton in High School Musical.
Over the years, he’s taken on diverse roles, such as the endearing time-traveler in 2009’s 17 Again and the gritty portrayal of wrestler Kevin Von Erich in 2023’s The Iron Claw.
He has also embraced comedy, notably playing the charismatic frat boy in Neighbors, where he humorously recalled dislocating his thumb on Dave Franco’s crotch during filming.
However, it’s in this lesser-known Netflix film where, according to fans, he delivers his finest performance yet.
The film tells the tale of US serial killer Ted Bundy, but from the viewpoint of his long-term girlfriend, Elizabeth Kloepfer, played by Lily Collins from Emily in Paris.
Elizabeth struggles to accept the terrifying accusations against Bundy, holding onto the belief that he is the charming and intelligent man she thought he was. As the court proceedings unfold and the truth is revealed, her world crumbles.
The movie also features performances by Haley Joel Osment from Happy Gilmore 2, Kaya Scodelario from Maze Runner, and Angela Sarafyan from Westworld.
Ted Bundy became infamous for the heinous kidnapping and assault of several women during the 1970s.
Bundy admitted to murdering up to 30 women within four years, though many believe the actual number was higher. He was ultimately captured, although he often denied the murders and dismissed allegations about his crimes. Bundy was executed by electric chair in 1989.
The movie in question is Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile, which became available on Netflix in May 2019. From January 2023 to June 2025, it accumulated 27 million viewing hours, according to FlixPatrol.
While the crime drama has captivated audiences, it received a rating of only 57 percent from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes, and an even lower 54 percent from critics.
Among the numerous fan reviews, many deemed the film underrated. Efron’s performance was widely acclaimed, with one reviewer describing it as ‘simply astonishing and worth the viewing.’
“The storytelling is really good and pointing out the story of the relationship between Bundy and his wife, till the end, makes the whole movie totally different from every other movie based on the vile serial killer,” they wrote.
Another reviewer concurred: “I don’t understand the low ratings at all. This has to be one of the best serial killer movies ever. This is also one of Zac Efron’s best.”
A third social media user added: “Zac’s best role since Troy Bolton!”
Additionally, a fourth viewer confessed: “Watched it three times and great acting on behalf of Zac Efron…”
Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile is currently available for streaming on Netflix US.