The newly released true crime documentary “Unknown Number: The High School Catfish,” features a teenage girl Lauryn Licari and her ex-boyfriend Owen. It tells the story of how one text turned into stalking, dreadful messages, and a multitude of broken relationships. Although the story originally began in 2020, this documentary was released Aug. 29, 2025, on Netflix, leaving many watchers debating the results.
In terms of recommendations, “Unknown Number” was an intriguing watch. The story unraveled though the content of the documentary as the viewer gets into the plot is eye-opening. They learn through evidence gathered, actions taken, and overall, the involvement of each character just how cruel a person can be.
Although the documentary teaches the viewer the true effects of cyberbullying, one could reckon that there is a deeper meaning behind the documentary. Following the text messages, they almost seem too personal. Almost as if the person writing them was a close friend or an enemy that has gotten too close. Truly, the documentary could be teaching the viewer that they should never get too comfortable, and to be careful who they trust.
Furthermore, the documentary shows how even the police can manage to fall short in a time of need as after months, the police had nothing. One could not possibly imagine the terror Lauryn was facing while all she could do was wait and be consistently found with no results.
Throughout the entire ludicrous situation, what truly gets to the viewers is the who in all the absurdity. When the documentary revealed who the true criminal was after years of torment, it left viewers feeling uneasy and at times angry. Many would go as far to say it was the twist of the century.
The person revealed as the one tormenting these children was originally charged with five different accounts of criminal charges, but after taking a plea deal many say they got off easy and did not truly face the consequences of their actions and I cannot say I disagree.
This documentary shows the grueling aspects of what this person did and to be let off with a 19 month to a maximum of five-year prison sentence just seems to light. Although through research further than this documentary it has been revealed this criminal has been out on parole for quite some time now and will be fully freed February of 2026, there are many aspects that just seem unclear and leave viewers apprehensive.
In essence, “Unknown Number: The High School Catfish” brings many aspects to life and changes the perspective of viewers by portraying a genuine experience that deeply affected these children along with others involved. Despite the fact it does not go into extreme details and does leave out details that would add more understanding and bring new opinions to viewers, it overall was a great watch and is highly recommended for those who are into true crime.
