Unknown Number Director Discusses Interview with Mother who Bullied Daughter
The director of the documentary “Unknown Number” recently shared insights into the interview with Kendra Licari, a mother who notoriously harassed her daughter online. Kendra admitted to sending abusive texts to her daughter, Lauryn, and her daughter’s boyfriend, Owen McKenny. The case gained widespread attention and was featured in a Netflix documentary, shedding light on the disturbing incidents.
In Kendra’s interview, she attempted to explain her actions and the motivations behind her behaviour. She confessed to spiralling mentally and not knowing how to put an end to her harmful actions. The director of the documentary, Skye Borgman, revealed that Kendra’s interview lasted for five hours, during which she shared her perspective on the situation. While Borgman acknowledged the complexity of Kendra’s story, she emphasised the importance of including multiple viewpoints in the documentary.
The documentary delves into Kendra’s troubled past, including her experience of sexual trauma as a teenager. Kendra expressed fear for her daughter’s safety, drawing parallels between her own trauma and her daughter’s teenage years. The film explores the psychological aspects of cyberbullying and the impact it can have on families.
Borgman highlighted the challenges of presenting Kendra’s narrative in a fair and balanced manner, noting that not all aspects of the interview made it into the final cut of the documentary. However, she underscored the significance of allowing Kendra to share her side of the story, along with perspectives from Lauryn, McKenny, and other individuals involved in the case.
The portrayal of Kendra’s struggles in the documentary has sparked discussions about mental health, parenting, and the complexities of online harassment. The director aimed to provide a nuanced depiction of the events, showcasing the human side of a mother who grappled with her inner demons while impacting her daughter’s life in profound ways.
As the documentary continues to resonate with audiences, viewers are prompted to reflect on the broader issues of cyberbullying and its repercussions on families. The case of Kendra Licari serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers of unchecked behaviours in the digital age, shedding light on the psychological toll of online abuse.
Overall, the director’s insights offer a glimpse into the intricate process of capturing and presenting a sensitive subject matter on screen. By approaching Kendra’s story with empathy and an open mind, the documentary sheds light on the complexities of human behaviour and the enduring impact of past traumas on present actions.