8 Major Plot Holes and Confusing Moments in Missing You

Warning: This article contains MAJOR SPOILERS for Netflix’s Missing You!

Audience Reception of Missing You

Netflix’s *Missing You* has garnered mixed reactions from viewers, with many expressing dissatisfaction due to its numerous plot inconsistencies and perplexing narrative elements that undermine the storytelling. Adapted from the 2014 novel by best-selling author Harlan Coben, the miniseries centers around police detective Kat Donovan. She embarks on a new investigation into her father’s murder after the unexpected reappearance of her ex-fiancé on a dating app.

The Disappointment of Expectations

Despite the promising premise and a talented cast, audience enthusiasm for the show quickly fizzled. Many viewers turned to social media to voice their frustrations, noting that while mystery shows often require some suspension of disbelief, *Missing You* goes too far. The narrative’s reliance on contradictory plot elements and illogical character choices left many feeling bewildered.

Critical Division

Interestingly, critics have been relatively kinder to *Missing You*, as indicated by its 52% score on Rotten Tomatoes’ Tomatometer, compared to a low 27% on the Popcornmeter, reflecting the stark divide between critical and audience reviews. This discrepancy highlights the show’s failure to resonate with its viewers despite its high production values and compelling themes.

Key Plot Issues

1. The Catfish Blocks Kat Without Justification

Early in the series, Kat Donovan faces a peculiar situation when she is blocked by her ex-fiancé’s dating profile right after sending him a flirty message along with the song “Missing You.”Yet later, a character associated with the Catfish claims he blocked her due to her “too many questions,”contradicting the earlier narrative without clear motives or knowledge of Kat’s past. This inconsistency casts doubt on the plausibility of the Catfish’s actions, leaving viewers perplexed.

2. Ignored Disappearances Linked to the Dating App

A man dies on Titus' farm in Netflix's Missing You

One glaring oversight in the plot is the police’s apparent unawareness of multiple disappearances connected to the dating app and other criminal activities. With evidence suggesting that Titus is responsible for the kidnapping of eight individuals on his farm, it is inconceivable that law enforcement wouldn’t have recognized a pattern of vanishing affluent individuals, especially considering the timeframe of the crimes spanning over a decade.

3. Clint’s Anachronistic Motivation

*Missing You’s* portrayal of Clint raises eyebrows, given his willingness to resort to murder to conceal his sexual orientation, despite having a supportive, LGBTQ+-affirming family. Such motivations seem incongruous with contemporary cultural norms and attitudes. This inconsistency is further highlighted when considering that the original novel was published in 2014, creating a dissonance in character portrayal when transferred to the screen set in a modern context.

4. Lack of DNA Evidence on Clint’s Body

Kat looks at DCI Ellis Stagger in Netflix's Missing You

Another problematic aspect arises from the investigation surrounding Clint’s murder. Despite the circumstantial evidence and the involvement of various officers, the absence of trace DNA from Aqua and other suspects raises questions about the thoroughness of the investigation. The plot demands a level of disbelief that detracts from what could have been a taut narrative.

5. No Contact with Parker for 11 Years

It is puzzling that Kat is the first person to seek out Parker, Clint’s long-term partner, eleven years after the murder. The narrative fails to present a reasonable explanation for the police’s neglect in contacting Parker during their investigation, especially given the long duration of Clint and Parker’s relationship and the significant implications it holds for the case.

6. Titus’s Farm Fire Draws Attention

Titus looking down and frowning in Netflix's Missing You

In a final act of desperation, Titus sets his farm ablaze, presumably to cover up his crimes. Yet, this decision is counterintuitive; it would likely attract more attention, as firefighters investigate potential arson. Such a move risks revealing crucial evidence that could expose his earlier activities, suggesting a troubling lack of foresight on Titus’s part.

7. Technological Oversights in the Investigation

Charlie and another police investigator look at a computer in Netflix's Missing You

The series often portrays law enforcement as technologically inept, with critical oversights in tracing online communications. For instance, the inability to track an IP address associated with the dating site presents a crucial gap in logic that could have easily directed the investigation. This creates a jarring disconnect between the show’s plot and the technological realities of the modern world.

8. Kat and Stacey’s Failure to Locate Josh

The most striking plot hole arises from Kat and her PI friend Stacey’s inability to find Josh over a decade. Given Kat’s access to police resources and Stacey’s investigative skills, their failure to track down Josh remains inexplicable. With public records readily available, their oversight undermines the premise of the story and frustrates the audience.

In summary, while *Missing You* attempts to weave a complex narrative rich with intrigue, the numerous plot holes and inconsistencies detract significantly from the viewer experience. Even with compelling performances, the show struggles to maintain its credibility, ultimately leaving audiences dissatisfied with the final product. For future adaptations, a tighter focus on logical consistency and character development could greatly enhance the story’s impact.

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