We’ve seen one person manage the duties of a writer, director, and actor in the past, and sometimes it goes really well. Missing Child, the brainchild of Luke Sabis, is not one of these times. Nearly every aspect of this droll thriller falls flat. It sports a confusing story that never really feels focused. There are only three real characters, all of which lack clear motivation at various points and are portrayed by actors that are in over their heads (especially Sabis). There is a kernel of an interesting story here, and by squinting one could come to admire the intention behind this mess. But, mostly we’re left with a paint-by-numbers “disturbing thriller” that can never hone its focus long enough to accomplish much of value.
Long-Form Film Criticism and Fiction Writing by Derek Jacobs