In the lead-up to the release of Netflix’s compelling documentary on the Long Island Serial Killer, audiences were introduced to the tragic story through the dramatized film Lost Girls. Developed with the assistance of the victims’ families, this film chronicles Mari Gilbert’s relentless struggle to uncover the truth behind her daughter Shannan’s disappearance. During Mari’s search in the Gilgo Beach area, the remains of four women—now referred to as The Gilgo Four—were uncovered, igniting a widespread investigation into a serial killer targeting sex workers in Long Island.
The documentary Gone Girls: The Long Island Serial Killer is a comprehensive three-part series that delves deep into the timeline of the killer and the events leading to the apprehension of the prime suspect, Rex Heuermann. Interestingly, while Lost Girls presents a fictionalized narrative—which predates Rex’s arrest and trial—Gone Girls offers the latest developments surrounding the harrowing case. Therefore, both works complement each other, making it important to experience Lost Girls as a companion to the more current Gone Girls.
Lost Girls: A Critical Companion to Gone Girls
Lost Girls: A Dramatization of Actual Events
While both Lost Girls and Gone Girls address different facets of the Long Island Serial Killer narrative, the latter focuses more on the recent arrest of the killer. Conversely, Lost Girls emphasizes the mystery and the personal stories of the victims, particularly that of Shannan. The film portrays Mari Gilbert, expertly played by Amy Ryan, as she strives to have Shannan’s case taken seriously by law enforcement. Therefore, experiencing both films is crucial for a full understanding of this tragic saga.
While Gone Girls delivers fact-based storytelling, Lost Girls incorporates dramatized scenes to enhance emotional depth. Although certain events are fictionalized, the film genuinely conveys Mari’s anguish and the societal biases during the investigation. The narrative poignantly captures the struggles of sex workers, often disregarded by the system, highlighted by Mari’s powerful remarks: “It’s all men this, men that. The girls are just prostitutes, hookers, sex workers…”
The Purpose Behind Gone Girls’ Creation Amidst Lost Girls’ Existence
Lost Girls Unveils the Mystery, While Gone Girls Advances the Narrative
The conclusion of Lost Girls introduces a fictional main suspect in the Long Island Serial Killer case, compelling viewers to ponder the possibility of additional accomplices based on real case details. However, since Lost Girls was released in 2020, prior to Rex Heuermann’s arrest, its ending serves more as an interpretation than a definitive account. With Heuermann now facing charges linked to the murders of seven women in the vicinity, an updated narrative became necessary, which led to the production of Gone Girls.
With an approval rating of 72% on Rotten Tomatoes, Lost Girls remains vital for understanding the complexities surrounding the Long Island Serial Killer case. Both Gone Girls and Lost Girls present essential viewpoints, showcasing the journey of the victims alongside the investigation’s developments. While Gone Girls emphasizes the capture of a suspect, Lost Girls poignantly focuses on Mari Gilbert’s relentless pursuit of justice for her daughter, thus richly complementing the overall narrative.