Getting Lost is a captivating new documentary that revisits the global and cultural phenomenon of LOST from a variety of perspectives. Directed by documentarian and devoted LOST fan Taylor Morden (The Last Blockbuster), the film is now available for rent or purchase on streaming services.
As someone who watched the show in real time, this documentary reignited memories of the mysteries, emotions, and excitement that made LOST a landmark in television history. It also offers fascinating behind-the-scenes insights, delving into the creative process and how the show became an integral part of so many fans' lives. The involvement of numerous cast members, creators, and crew adds both depth and authenticity to its storytelling. Among the interviewees are creators and showrunners J.J. Abrams, Damon Lindelof and Carlton Cuse — and nearly every major actor with the notable exception of Matthew Fox.
Some of the most enjoyable moments come from the cast’s reflections. While the show was deeply meaningful to them, it was fun to discover that they didn’t always share the same level of fan dedication—for instance, many admitted to not knowing “the numbers,” a detail every LOST fan can recite in their sleep. They also spoke about the profound impact of filming in Hawaii and how the show has left a lasting mark on their careers and lives. The documentary is filled with anecdotes about fan interactions, some of which are downright hilarious—like fans writing “Not Penny’s Boat” on their hands and silently showing it to Sonya Walger (Penny Widmore) on the street without saying a word. Moments like these highlight the unique and sometimes quirky connection between the cast and the fans.
Getting Lost also doesn’t shy away from asking a few hard questions whether it be from the controversial finale (for the record, I think it was perfect) to the recent accusations of LOST having a toxic writer’s room. Both Damon Lindelof and Carlton Cuse address that accusation on camera and take full responsibility with their answers.
The film also features some of the most well-known LOST fans, including Jay and Jack of the Jay and Jack Podcast, which I listened to religiously. A particularly moving segment of the documentary highlights Ryan and Jen, creators of the LOST Podcast: The Transmission. Though I wasn’t a listener, their story—culminating in Jen’s battle with breast cancer and her eventual passing—left a profound impact. This experience, in part, inspired the creation of the Cancer Gets Lost program, which the documentary showcases beautifully.
The documentary excels in exploring the fan-driven ecosystem that surrounded LOST. As one of the first shows to foster a massive online community, LOST sparked the creation of countless websites, podcasts, and even real-time Twitter interactions between fans and cast members. This dynamic was perfectly suited for the internet age, and the documentary captures that energy with heart and clarity.
I 100% recommend Getting Lost to every LOST fan—it’s an absolute must-watch. Beyond that, it’s a thoughtful exploration of the entertainment industry’s evolving ecosystem, offering a fascinating look at the intersection of television and fandom, as well as the growth of online communities centered around entertainment properties. Lastly, if you know a LOST fanatic and want to understand why the show holds such a powerful grip on them, Getting Lost will provide all the answers.
Tip: Stay tuned all the way through the very last credit!
Getting Lost is now available to own or rent on digital platforms, including Amazon.