Crime Scene: The Vanishing at the Cecil Hotel

(available on Netflix)

FTC Rating: 2 out of 5

I was torn about including this review as I wanted to feature only the best of True Crime. However, its popularity and Canadian connection ultimately tipped the scales.

Follow the tragic story of Elisa Lam's disappearance and discovery in the strangest of places.

Strengths:

-Analysis of city planning in L.A. and poverty in America's metropolis

-A strange but intriguing interview with the hotel's then Manager

Weaknesses:

-This article by C-Net reporter Mark Serrels says it all: https://www.cnet.com/.../netflixs-cecil-hotel.../

-I cringed during every.single.one. of the "internet sleuth" interviews (unlike those featured in Don't F**k With Cats)

-Despite learning about Elisa through her blogs, her story felt hollow as presented by this docuseries. She almost came across as an afterthought.