Watch Lauren is Missing
- NR
- 2013
- 1 hr 15 min
-
4.7 (12)
Lauren is Missing is a 2013 film that has been hailed as one of the most chilling and realistic films on the subject of online predators. The film is directed by Michael Goi, and stars Kirsten Barber, Erin Jorgensen, and Maya Lawson in lead roles. The story of Lauren is Missing is quite simple. The film opens to Lauren's video diary, where she talks about her life, her friends, and her family. She mentions her friend Emily, who she used to hang out with a lot but has since gone missing.
Lauren is shown as a happy, carefree teenager who enjoys hanging out with friends, going to parties, and flirting with boys. She is excited about life, about her upcoming birthday, and the parties she has planned with her friends.
But after her friend Emily goes missing, she starts to get worried. Her fears are compounded when she receives strange messages on her Facebook account from an unknown person. The messages are creepy, and the person seems to know a lot about Lauren's life.
As the days go by, Lauren becomes increasingly paranoid and scared. She confides in her friends, who try to reassure her, but the messages keep coming. She begins to investigate, and her search leads her to dark corners of the internet where she discovers some shocking truths.
The film is shot entirely as a found-footage movie, which adds to its realism. The camera is always shaky, and the lighting is dim, giving the movie a documentary-style look. The film is also entirely set on a smartphone, through text messages, social media, and video chats. This approach gives the movie a sense of urgency and puts the viewer right in the middle of the action.
The performances in Lauren is Missing are excellent, particularly Kirsten Barber who plays Lauren. She is a convincing actress who brings depth and realism to her role. Her portrayal of a scared and confused teenager is poignant, and she manages to convey the sense of helplessness that comes with being preyed upon.
Erin Jorgensen and Maya Lawson also put in strong performances as Lauren's friends, who are there to help and support her but are struggling with their own fears and doubts. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with all actors playing their roles with authenticity and conviction.
The cinematography of Lauren is Missing is something that deserves special mention. The film is shot entirely on an iPhone, but it never feels like a gimmick. The camerawork is steady and professional, and the use of split-screen and close-ups is effective. The film also uses various filters and video effects to add to the mood and tone of the movie.
The music in Lauren is Missing is minimal, but effective. It is used sparingly to heighten the tension and build suspense. The film also makes excellent use of sound design, with every creak, footstep, and whisper adding to the atmosphere of the movie.
Overall, Lauren is Missing is a powerful and unsettling film that deals with a difficult and relevant subject matter. It is a film that stays with the viewer long after the credits have rolled. The film is a warning to parents, teenagers, and anyone who uses the internet that dangers lurk in the virtual world. The film offers a poignant reminder of the dangers of failing to be vigilant online.
In conclusion, Lauren is Missing is a thought-provoking and engaging movie that deserves to be seen by a wider audience. It is a powerful testament to the dangers of the digital age and the need for vigilance online.