The most significant real-world reference is to , an Iranian serial killer active in the early 2000s. He was dubbed the "Spider Killer" because of the way he lured and killed his victims—16 female sex workers in the holy city of Mashhad.

An Iranian drama directed by Ebrahim Irajzad that focuses more closely on the killer's perspective and his family life.

The "Spider Killer" story has been adapted into several acclaimed films: