Atlanta's Missing And Murdered: The Lost Children (2020)

About Atlanta's Missing And Murdered: The Lost Children

'Atlanta's Missing And Murdered: The Lost Children' is a riveting HBO documentary series that was released in 2020. It delves into the deeply disturbing period from 1979-1981, when at least 30 African-American children and young adults disappeared or were murdered in Atlanta. The series revisits the crimes, unearthing shocking new information and unheard voices. The show also raises questions about the official stories surrounding the main suspect, Wayne Williams, and uncovers a potential cover-up by authorities.

Making / Production

'Atlanta's Missing And Murdered: The Lost Children' was directed by Sam Pollard, Maro Chermayeff, Jeff Dupre, and Joshua Bennett. The series production was marked by careful context research, interviews and collection of archival footage, displaying a polished and heartrending attention to detail.

Actors

• Wayne Williams - Though not an actor, his presence is essential to the series. Answering interview questions, he maintains his innocence and adds complexity to the narrative.
• Catherine Leach - The mother of one of the victims, her raw depiction of pain gives a personal perspective to the storyline.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Oprah Winfrey and journalist Barbara Shearer previously produced a 1985 special titled "The Atlanta Child Murders," which includes interviews with many of the same principals.
• Although Wayne Williams was the main suspect, the series reopens the investigation by interviewing new potential suspects.

Awards

While this series did not win any awards, it was hugely appreciated by critics and viewers for its truthfulness and investigative approach.

Quotes

• "We've waited for 40 years to get this story out." - Omari Henderson, brother of victim Yusuf Bell.
• "We are still looking for the truth." - Venkata "Ven" Cattamanchi, a retired APD homicide detective.

Music, Soundtrack

• The musical score of the series, created by composer Son Lux, effectively amplifies the suspenseful and somber feel of the series by featuring a blend of electronic and acoustic songs.