Merman and BBH Launch Short Film for Missing People Challenging True Crime Culture

Merman has partnered with Missing People and BBH London to launch Based on a True Story, a powerful new short film directed by Rachel Stubbings that confronts the human cost behind the true crime genre.

Executive produced by Sharon Horgan, the film is set in a TV writers’ room where a team of writers and producers discuss real missing persons cases as potential entertainment. As the conversation unfolds, it becomes clear that the stories being shaped for screen are not fiction, but real lives – reframing the genre through a more critical, human lens.

The campaign responds to the growing popularity of true crime, with millions of viewers consuming real-life stories while thousands of families continue to search for missing loved ones. By shifting perspective, Based on a True Storychallenges audiences and creators alike to reconsider how these narratives are told – and who they impact.

Developed in collaboration with people with lived experience, the film balances sharp, satirical commentary with emotional authenticity. It forms part of a wider campaign that includes the launch of Missing People’s Responsible Narratives Charter, encouraging more ethical storytelling practices across the industry.

The campaign also extends into PR and social activations, including a symbolic “unmissable boxset” sent to press and influencers, which contained nothing at all, highlighting the many cases that go unseen and unheard.

Based on a True Story is an example of Merman’s continued commitment to culturally resonant storytelling – work that not only entertains, but provokes and connects. To watch: CLICK HERE

See below for press links:

Missing People Flips the Script on True Crime – Shots

Missing People Reclaims the Narrative from True Crime Culture in BBH and Merman Campaign – LBB Online

Five Star Review for Merman & Missing People – David Reviews

Missing People Campaign Highlights that Tragedy is not Entertainment – Campaign

Missing People Targets Obsessive True Crime Culture – Creative Salon

Missing People Campaign Aims to Bust ‘True Crime’ Myth – Decision Marketing

Charity Missing People Reminds True Crime Viewers that Real People are Behind Every Story – Creative Movement

‘Based on a True Story’: Missing People Ad Reclaims True Crime Narrative – Media Shotz

Missing People Takes Aim at True Crime Culture – Famous Campaigns