Lost Girls - Os Crimes de Long Island

Based on true events, Lost Girls - Os Crimes de Long Island (2020) touches on the wider story of the Long island serial killer, who, to date has not been identified.

As a film it was very good, and anyone with any empathy for others will be drawn into the mothers desperate search to find her daughter.

For myself, the most poignant part of the film was the end. The incredibly selfish act of taking someone's life for your own 'pleasure', or self protection, is beyond the lowest of the low, but the domino effect such a cowardly and moronic act has upon that person's family makes it even worse, and this is very much the case for Mari Gilbert (the mother of Shannan).

Recommended for those who enjoy films based on true events, true crime and mystery.

Since I watch a lot of murder mysteries this popped up on Netflix. Once it started I realized is was about the murders on Long Island. I knew a little, but nothing about the families involved.

The film does an excellent job of drawing you into the life of the mother who wouldn't settle for police indifference. There were details and an ending I never knew that adds to the heart break.

Excellent Netflix film based on real events, I don't say that very often. Dolby Vision and 4K has made viewing films like this a very realistic proposition which makes them more horrowing and thought provoking. Amy Ryan is magnificent as Mari a crusading mother trying to find out what happened to her estranged daughter Shannan, ably supported by her two daughters. Police only stumble across two bodies by mistake which takes her to a strange private community called Gilko Beach(The True Location). Gabriel Byrne plays Commissioner Dorman a cop whos at the twilight of his career, he forms a cat & dog relationship with Mari. Mari forms friendships with the mothers and daughters at a wake, where they try to seek justice. This won't be bettered this year for its realism and passion and superb acting. A Must See!

Acting is overall good. Photo is good. But to tell this whole story in 1h 30mins is impossible. And that affects the outcome. It results in not getting to know the characters, there are gaps in the story and overall it is shallow. They could have done so much more with this (sad) story so it could have been developed into a mini series maybe. I would have liked more focus on the investigation. More focus on the characters living in Oak Beach. More on the daughters relation to their mother. And so on. Intent is good but it doesn't reach whole way through.

Firstly, this being a true crime storyline, it's refreshing for a character study. The book was a tough read, and the film is no different. Strong cast, and a film that can't provide any real closure for the viewer. Netflix should make more films based on true crime stories. Lost Girls is a sad story and more focus is not a bad thing.