mcrae_k

I thoroughly enjoyed this film - it pulled you in and I couldn't take my eyes off the screen. It's quite hard to describe in words - but there was just a closeness to everything that made you really feel like you were really there. I appreciated the historical accuracy of the setting and the film as well (a rare thing these days). Florence Pugh was absolutely brilliant as always and the girl who played Anna also deserves a lot of accolades. The only thing I don't understand and didn't like was the opening scene where they showed outside the set. It was completely pointless and pretentious. I don't know how this made it into the final edit at all because it has no bearing on the rest of the film. The same goes for the final scene - it was just so unnecessary. Aside from that I do recommend this film - it was refreshing to see something that stuck to just telling a good story. It was beautifully shot, color graded and lit too.

The trailer for this and Netflix advertising it as a mystery thriller is incredibly misleading. This ended up being a complete waste of two hours. The writing was absolutely atrocious and it honestly felt like a student film from 15 years ago. That is not to say the subject matter is not important and shouldn't be told - it absolutely should. But not like this. I kept waiting for the writing and editing to improve but it didn't. The script and even delivery felt akin to The Room at times, it was that bad. So many storylines that go nowhere or characters that are unlikable and poorly developed. They really underutilized the talented cast and I can't overstate just how awful the writing/script is. The only meaningful message you pull from this, is why did I just waste 2 hours of my life watching it? Avoid at all costs.

I really enjoyed the first season but the second season is even better. Couldn't take my eyes off the screen and wanted to watch the next episode immediately. Very interesting case and they have interviews with all those involved. How they track down the identity from just the remains is fascinating and hats off to those who must have spent countless hours researching the genealogy. Hats off also to all the law enforcement who never gave up. The show has a very high production value, well edited and shot with really well done reenactments and great cinematography of Yosemite valley as well. Hope that there is another season.