Getting Lost

Getting Lost, Taylor Morden's documentary about the mid-2000s cultural phenomenon Lost, brings a refreshing and much-needed perspective on a show that defined an era of television. While the documentary has received some critiques for focusing more on the impact Lost had on its fans rather than an in-depth exploration of the show itself, I believe this choice was both intentional and thoughtful.

For those expecting a deep dive into behind-the-scenes stories, this isn't the film to quench that thirst. While there is plenty of that to go around, the making-of content for Lost has been thoroughly covered in DVD extras, special features, and a plethora of interviews throughout the years that most of us have already watched. What Getting Lost offers is something far more personal and poignant: a reflection on the way Lost has embedded itself into the lives of its fans and influenced popular culture.

What truly sets the documentary apart is its intimate exploration of fandom. It's not just a fan base; it's a community that rallied around the mystery, the heartbreak, the theory crafting, and the shared experience of watching the show as it aired. Morden captures this in a way that feels both nostalgic and celebratory, spotlighting a variety of voices, from casual viewers to superfans, who explain how Lost shaped their lives. Whether it's fans reflecting on the series' philosophical themes or discussing the thrill of weekly water-cooler conversations about the latest episode's cliffhanger, Getting Lost taps into what made Lost not just a TV show, but a cultural moment.

While some may lament the lack of focus on the making of the show, it's worth noting that Morden's documentary is more concerned with legacy than logistics. It examines why Lost has endured for more than two decades, remaining a touchstone in the conversation about TV's golden age. Fans will find themselves reminiscing about the way the show made them think, feel, and even connect with others in ways they didn't expect. It celebrates the profound emotional impact of Lost, even as it grapples with its controversial finale and the unresolved questions that still linger.

This isn't a making-of documentary-it's a love letter to the fans and to the unique, immersive experience of watching Lost unfold. For that reason, it succeeds in ways that more technical documentaries may not. Morden doesn't just document the show's creation, he captures its essence-why we watched, why we cared, and how Lost became a part of our collective cultural memory.

So, if you're looking for a story about the mechanics behind Lost, this might not satisfy that craving. But if you want a documentary that captures the magic, mystery, and emotional journey that made Lost unforgettable, Getting Lost delivers in spades.

On September 22. 2004 a plane crashed on a mysterious island. It was the start of LOST, my favourite TV Show of all time. I didn't know back then but LOST would change my life quite a bit... My english language skills were realy bad at the time but I learned how to speak english just by watching LOST.

And the only reason I even watched it in english, was because I didn't want to wait a year before it was translated and dubbed in german. Which was the only (legal) way to watch american shows back then :D

Besides english, LOST taught me many life lessons and I would not be the person I am today without it.

On September 22. 2024 I had the opportunity to celebrate 20 years of LOST at the World Premiere of GETTING LOST in LA.

This amazing documentary tells the story of LOST and its fans. And how it changed and impacted so many lifes in these 20 years.

I would like to thank Ralph, Taylor and everyone involved for this great documentary.

In my opinion, this was the missing puzzle piece to explain why LOST is still loved all over the world by so many people.

It is a must watch for any LOST Fan!

I knew this documentary would be fantastic. I didn't know it would create such an emotional response. It was like visiting dear friends that I have not seen for 20ish years. Seeing them reminisce and tell behind-the-scene stories was delightful, and I found myself pulled into their world once again. The director addressed some of the very uncomfortable aspects of the production with what I thought was a fair and balanced accounting of events and consequences. Refreshing to be able to delve into the dirt of this part of the story but still come out cheering at the end for the phenomenon it became.

I loved Lost, even the ending! There is quite a lot to enjoy in this film, especially when the stars of the show are talking about the series so fondly. What I didn't like was that it spent far too much time on fans of the show, a number of whom were really rather boring and totally self obsessed. It was more about them than the actual show!! This got worse later on when there was talk of some toxicity on the show, giving these narcissistic fans a chance to wallow in victim mentality droning on about diversity and inclusion etc. This was followed by the sob stories and illnesses suffered by some of these fans. I wanted to watch those from the show not people I have absolutely no interest in. I'd give it a higher score if they cut out the dreary fans.

I had been tracking Getting LOST on social media for quite some time before it finally became available to rent. Not only am I a huge LOST fan, but I was excited to see something commemorating the series' 20th anniversary. But of course, independently-financed documentaries are always going to be a bit of an adventure quality-wise. Fortunately, this one is as good as they come even without studio funding!

Basically, director Taylor Morden covers all the key areas in which LOST was successful, controversial, and/or changed the game when it came to network television quality. From the mind-boggling pilot to the immediate skyrocketing success to the controversial finale and everything along the way (plus after), Morden provides excellent series coverage.

While generally being very positive about LOST's legacy, Getting LOST does not shy away from the more recent reports of the writer's room or production not necessarily being the most welcoming place. Generally-speaking, though, Morden plays fair with these topics and gives a wide range of thoughts/opinions on that topic. It had to be addressed--and it is--without slowing the overall narrative.

The true hallmark of Getting LOST, however, is the sheer number of interviewees it procures. From producers to show runners to writers to actors to superfans to podcasters--I could list them all but it would almost be easier to name who didn't participate! The breadth of interviews in this doc would be impressive for a well-funded production, much less one largely financed by individual contributions. Not only does this provide some "insider info", but it is simply fun for LOST fans to see what everyone is up to now!

Even the special effects are fun here, with DHARMA paraphernalia, polar bears, and other LOST iconography used to mostly comedic (though sometimes dramatic) effect.

Ultimately, I really could not have asked for anything more from Getting LOST. Truly a fitting 20-year tribute to one of the greatest TV shows ever created!