TLDR
Sometimes, I’m reminded Netflix makes excellent true-crime documentaries. This is one of those moments.
What it's about
When Cathy Terkanian started looking for the daughter she had when she was 17, she didn’t expect to be met with a cold case. Determined to gain closure and justice, she rallies the community behind her and breaks open the case.
The take
It’s easy to forget that Netflix helped boost the popularity of the true crime genre, especially since it’s pumping out a new series almost daily. A lot of them are rushed and sensationalized, but there are a few that are worthwhile. Into the Fire is thankfully the latter. Showrunner Jenna Lamia and Director Susanne Bier tell Terkanian and her daughter’s story in a refreshingly measured way, making sure to hone in on Terkanian’s restless energy. It’s that energy that rallies the community behind her in breaking open the case and uncovering many more missing persons besides her daughter. The same energy makes the show feel more dynamic and alive than other true crime documentaries. It’s also more restrained and respectful. No overdramatized suspense or sensationalized twists here, just an incredibly true story, cleverly and humanely told.