[Review] Disappearance at Lake Elrod

Disappearance at Lake Elrod is a 2020 psychological thriller directed by Lauren Fash and written by Lauren Fash and Susan Graham. The film focuses on the heart-breaking life and loss of a small-town local, Charlie played by Robyn Lively (Teen Witch and Wild Cats). Going on one year after the disappearance of her daughter Lily, another young girl goes missing. Charlie is convinced that the two cases are connected and that the police and the community are covering up a deep secret. Charlie begins an investigation of her home to find out the true story and connection between her daughter and the missing girl, the daughter of whisky magnate, Trip Carmichael (Michael Trucco).   

Source: October Coast

Charlie and her partner Angela, played by Bethany Anne Lind (Doom Patrol, Greenleaf, and Ozark) are experiencing homophobia and accusations from people in the town which are putting their relationship under a lot of stress. In response, Charlie has started drinking at the local pub as a coping mechanism. On top, Charlie is also experiencing hallucinations and flashbacks that are becoming more and more regular as the movie progresses. One night at her local, Charlie comes across the story of a missing local teenager, the daughter of the incredibly wealthy Trip Carmichael. Trip is a repugnant man who has spent his life suffering no consequences and has a mother who takes care of every mess he makes. Teaming up with tenacious reporter Amy played by Shameless’s Shanola Hampton, Charlie uncovers deep and spine-chilling secrets that their community has buried. 

Throughout the film, there are very vulnerable and heart-warming moments with Charlie as she remembers the relationship she had with her daughter before she went missing. They showed these through flashbacks that litter the film, reminding us of a time that once was for the family. Robyn Lively gives a sensational performance as Charlie as we watch her transform throughout the film, suffering from hallucinations and flashbacks. Paired up dynamically with Shanola Hampton, the two have a great chemistry that provides heartwarming moments throughout the film. Working together, Charlie and Amy dive into uncovering the secrets that have been covered up in their small town. They have a great dynamic and I appreciate how well they bounce off of one another in their time investigating. The investigation that they carry out together is intriguing and is endearing as the ending comes to a head. 

Source: October Coast

The third act is tied up nicely with a twist that hit me right in the pit of my stomach, echoing heartbreak and tragedy through my bones. The twist reflects what Charlie is afraid of from the very beginning, losing herself in the grief and darkness that has followed her around. Heading into the end of the film, they show us the impact of what loss has done to Charlie. The ending of the film is an eerie shock that I did not expect, however, it wrapped up Disappearance at Lake Elrod in the most heart-rending way.