Amy Bradley Is Missing review: The vacation that became an endless nightmare
By Prateek Sur, October 1 2025—
The true crime Netflix docuseries delves into the baffling 1998 disappearance of Amy Bradley from a Caribbean cruise.
On March 21, 1998, 23-year-old Amy Lynn Bradley embarked on a Caribbean cruise with her family aboard the Rhapsody of the Seas. What began as a celebratory vacation quickly turned into a nightmare when, just two nights later, Amy vanished from her cabin without a trace. Her disappearance sparked an immediate search, an FBI investigation, and a decades-long quest for answers by her distraught family.
The docuseries meticulously revisits the events leading up to her vanishing, the immediate aftermath and the numerous leads, theories and purported sightings that have emerged over the years. Will this comprehensive look finally shed light on what truly happened to Amy, or will her case remain one of the most perplexing disappearances at sea?
The heart of the ‘Amy Bradley Is Missing’ docuseries lies in the raw and enduring performances of the Bradley family. Ron and Iva Bradley, Amy’s parents, along with her brother Brad, carry the emotional weight of the series. Their interviews are candid, revealing the profound impact of Amy’s disappearance on their lives and their relentless pursuit of the truth.
The docuseries also features interviews with key figures involved in the investigation, including FBI agents and individuals who claim to have seen Amy after her disappearance, such as Lori Thompson.
The inclusion of Alister “Yellow” Douglas’ daughter, Amica Douglas, provides an unheard perspective, adding another layer of complexity to the long-standing theories surrounding his involvement. The emotional honesty and personal stakes of these individuals are what truly drive the series.
Directed and executive produced by Ari Mark and Phil Lott, ‘Amy Bradley Is Missing’ navigates a delicate balance between presenting known facts and exploring the myriad of theories that plagued the case for over two decades.
The script, while not explicitly stated as a separate entity, is effectively woven through the interviews and archival footage, creating a coherent, albeit unsettling, timeline of events. The directorial choices are commendable in their restraint. There’s no sensationalism, rather a focus on the human element and the enduring mystery.
As far as editing goes, it becomes a crucial element in true-crime documentaries, and here, the pacing is deliberate, building suspense without resorting to cheap thrills. The visual presentation, often relying on archival photos and news clips, effectively transports the viewer back to the time of the disappearance, enhancing the sense of realism and urgency. The series manages to maintain a compelling narrative despite the lack of a definitive resolution, a testament to the strength of its investigative approach and the raw emotion conveyed by those directly or indirectly impacted.
‘Amy Bradley Is Missing’ is a poignant and often frustrating exploration of one of the most enduring maritime mysteries. While it doesn’t offer a definitive answer to Amy’s disappearance, it excels in humanising the victim and her family, bringing their decades-long struggle to the forefront. It’s a testament to their resilience that they continue their search, and the series effectively conveys the agony of living with unanswered questions.
The inclusion of new interviews adds fresh perspectives to long-held suspicions, even if they don’t lead to a breakthrough. Ultimately, the docuseries serves as a powerful reminder of the vulnerability of individuals, even in seemingly safe environments and the profound impact of unresolved disappearances.
It’s a compelling watch for true-crime enthusiasts, offering a deep dive into a case that continues to baffle investigators. While it may not provide the closure many viewers hope for, it certainly reignites interest in Amy’s case and underscores the importance of never giving up hope.
I am going with 3.5/5 stars.