Les Disparues: a western between drama and thriller
The missing (The missing) is a 2004 film directed by Ron Howard, adapted from the novel The last lap by Thomas Eidson. Set in 1885 New Mexico, the film follows Maggie Gilkeson (Cate Blanchett), a healer and single mother, whose eldest daughter is kidnapped by a group of traffickers led by a mysterious Apache wizard.
To save her daughter, Maggie is forced to appeal to her father Samuel (Tommy Lee Jones), who had abandoned her years earlier to live among the Native Americans. Their search, between family tensions and clashes with of the dangers of the Wild Westexplores both the violence of the era and the complex dynamics between settlers and Native Americans.
The film combines different genres: the western, for its historical setting and its grandiose landscapes, and the psychological thriller, for the tension that runs through the story. Supported by careful artistic direction and solid acting performances, the film distinguishes itself from traditional westerns by offering a more introspective approach.
A bitter commercial failure
When it was released in 2003, The missing benefits from a substantial budget of 60 million dollars and a renowned cast with Cate Blanchett, Tommy Lee Jones and Evan Rachel Wood. Despite these advantages, the film failed to establish itself at the global box office, only collecting $38 million.
From a critical point of view, opinions are divided. While some praise Ron Howard’s ambition and the performances of the lead actors, others point out the uneven pacing and predictable plot. For example, The Guardian notes that “the film brings nothing new to the genre” while Roger Ebert describes the film as “correct but without great scope”.
The missing is an example of those films forgotten by theaters that find a second life thanks to streaming. While it wasn’t compelling at the time of its release, it’s a curiosity for fans of atypical westerns or those looking to explore a lesser-known work by Ron Howard.
The film is available on Netflix France from 1 December.
Source: Cine Serie
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