Documentaries are back. Unknown Number: The High School Catfish, directed by Skye Borgman, has skyrocketed to the top of Netflix’s global movie rankings for the week of September 1st-7th.
The film follows the story of Lauryn Licari, a high school student from Beal City, Michigan. The young teen gets caught in a harrowing cyberbullying campaign whose ending shocks the world.
The documentary has generated 26.3 million views, finding the number one spot after moving up from third place the previous week. Learn more about the documentary and other Netflix hits here.
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About Unknown Number
Netflix describes Unknown Number as a “twisty” investigation into “vulgar, taunting texts” that flood Lauryn and her boyfriend’s phones. The torment will lead to a shocking revelation about the identity and motive behind the harassment, showing the dangerous power of hiding behind a screen.
The documentary not only explores targeted cyberbullying but also the impact on Lauryn, her family, and the community of Beal City. With a second week in the top 10, Unknown Number has struck a chord with viewers on the platform.
Skye Borgman directed the documentary. She previously worked on true crime films like Girl in the Picture and Abducted in Plain Sight.
Borgman’s background adds an investigative depth to the documentary, uncovering unexpected truths within the case that challenge initial assumptions about the harassment Lauryn and her former boyfriend endured.
Competition on Netflix
Unknown Number has found success on the streaming platform, but it faces stiff competition. KPop Demon Hunters remains a popular contender, securing the second spot with 25.4 million views after a strong 12-week showing on the top 10 list.
The Thursday Murder Club, featuring a star-studded ensemble cast, fills out the top three with 18.7 million views, showing the popularity and interest in star-led mystery thrillers.
Other favorites fill out the Netflix list, including Good Will Hunting, the Shrek animated series, and Paw Patrol: The Movie. It’s an eclectic blend of recently released hits and enduring classics that continues to make Netflix one of the top streaming services.
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Growing Interest in Documentaries
The continued popularity of Unknown Number: The High School Catfish reveals the growing viewer interest in documentaries that dive into contemporary social issues like cyberbullying. They also maintain an engaging storytelling approach to blend mystery and real-life drama.
As Netflix continues to highlight these films, the conversation surrounding digital harassment and its consequences on the world gains wider exposure and understanding.
With an intense narrative and investigative aspects, Unknown Number provides more than entertainment. It forces viewers to accept the hidden dangers of social media and the lengths people will go to uncover the truth behind the deception.
Its success on Netflix goes to show viewers have an appetite for real-life stories that peel apart the complex world hidden underneath surface appearances.