‘The Missing’ (2023) Netflix Movie Review - A Journey of Self-Discovery

Carl Joseph Papa wrote and directed the film, which recounts the story of Eric, an ordinary young guy living in an urban region somewhere in the Philippines, who begins to experience emotions of paranoia and despair, particularly after learning that his uncle has died. Here is what happens: Eric has a good life yet it's filled with sadness. Eric's life in the Philippines was like a reel of mundane yet comforting scenes, punctuated by the occasional peculiar twist. As an animator, he found solace in crafting vibrant worlds on screen, a stark contrast to his own reality. His apartment, though cozy, bore the marks of neglect, its surfaces marred by layers of dust—a testament to his perpetual busyness. Yet, amidst the chaos, he found contentment, buoyed by the stability of his well-paying job and the affection he harbored for a certain someone.

What truly set Eric apart, however, was a peculiar anomaly—his lack of a mouth. A quirk that defied explanation, it had become an accepted facet of his existence, garnering equal parts curiosity and speculation from those around him.

The mundane rhythm of Eric's life was shattered when a call from his mother, Rosalinda, shattered the stillness. Her voice trembled with urgency as she implored him to seek out his long-lost uncle, believed to have vanished into the ether. With a sense of foreboding, Eric embarked on a journey that would unravel the fabric of his reality.

Upon reaching his uncle's purported location, Eric was greeted not by the familiar embrace of family, but by the cold grasp of death. His uncle had passed away, leaving behind a void that echoed with unanswered questions. As Eric grappled with the weight of this revelation, a figure from his past materialized—an alien presence, inexplicably drawn to him.

With the arrival of this enigmatic being, Eric's dormant memories stirred, threatening to breach the surface of his consciousness. In a whirlwind of recollection, he began to piece together fragments of his past, each revelation bringing him closer to a truth long obscured by the sands of time. As the layers of his existence peeled away, Eric stood on the precipice of a revelation—one that would redefine his understanding of self and reshape the trajectory of his future.

"The Missing" stands out as a meticulously crafted film, maintaining a gripping pace over its ninety-minute runtime. Its portrayal of life's intricacies and the internal struggles we face resonates deeply, offering a profound exploration of the human experience. The animation achieves a stunning level of realism, blurring the boundary between animated characters and live-action actors, immersing viewers fully into the narrative. At its core, the film delves into themes of self-discovery, making it a compelling and rewarding viewing experience for audiences seeking depth and insight into the complexities of existence.

Final Score- [7/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times