Missing (2023) is a modern, screen-based thriller that masterfully updates the 'screenlife' genre for the digital age. Directed by Nicholas D. Johnson and Will Merrick, the film follows June, a resourceful teenager who uses every online tool at her disposal when her mother vanishes during a vacation in Colombia with a new boyfriend. Faced with bureaucratic red tape and a seemingly indifferent system, June transforms into a digital detective, navigating social media, live streams, and encrypted apps in a desperate international search.

The film's strength lies in its innovative storytelling, unfolding entirely through computer and smartphone screens. This creates an immersive, real-time tension that feels both contemporary and intensely personal. Storm Reid delivers a compelling performance as June, portraying her transformation from a frustrated daughter to a determined investigator with authenticity and grit. The plot expertly weaves a web of mystery, where each digital clue raises more disturbing questions, leading to twists that challenge perceptions of trust and truth.

As a thriller, Missing is both a commentary on our digital footprint and a pulse-pounding mystery. The direction is sharp, maintaining suspense while making clever use of familiar technology in unfamiliar, high-stakes ways. For viewers seeking a smart, suspenseful film that reflects our interconnected world, Missing is a must-watch. Its 7.1 IMDb rating is well-earned, offering a fresh take on the genre that will keep you guessing until the final click.