Kidnap (2017)
A mother (in her Minivan) stops at nothing to recover her kidnapped son.
Details
Budget
$21,000,000
Rating
6/10 (1276 votes)
Status
Released
Production Companies
Ingenious Media, di Bonaventura Pictures, Gold Star Films, Lotus Entertainment, 606 Films, Well Go USA Entertainment, Rumble Entertainment
About Kidnap
The 2017 thriller "Kidnap" centers on a mother's desperate pursuit to retrieve her abducted son. The film is largely an extended chase sequence, with the protagonist, Karla, using her minivan to track the kidnappers after her child is taken from an amusement park. The story emphasizes her determination as a single mother in Louisiana, fighting for her son's safety amid a custody battle.
Key elements of the film include a "strong woman" protagonist and themes of "child kidnapping" and "mother-son relationship." The narrative maintains a frantic pace, focusing on the intense, on-the-road pursuit. Its reception highlights a divide, with some critics noting its predictable plot and low-budget feel, while others found the fast-moving action engaging despite familiar tropes.
Why you might be searching for Kidnap
People are often searching for "Kidnap" because of its focus on a mother's relentless pursuit of her abducted child, particularly the distinctive detail of her using a minivan for the chase. Searches also relate to Halle Berry's role as a determined female protagonist, similar to her work in other thrillers like "The Call," and the film's consistent, high-intensity action sequences.
What reviewers are saying
One reviewer questioned why Halle Berry would take on a role in a film like "Kidnap," describing it as poorly crafted, predictable, and having a low-budget feel, despite finding some appealing aspects.
Read the full reviewA viewer praised the film, calling it a good watch that moves at a "rocket speed" pace, leaving little time to focus on flaws and suggesting that critics might have misjudged it.
Read the full reviewA reviewer found the plot increasingly preposterous, especially a demand for $10k for the child's return, though they acknowledged Halle Berry's performance conveyed panic and desperation.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about finding and identifying movies
You can stream "Kidnap" on Netflix. It's also available to rent or buy on platforms like Amazon Video, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home.
"Kidnap" is an American action thriller film directed by Luis Prieto and written by Knate Lee. There is no information suggesting it is based on a true story.
Karla Dyson, after a long chase, finds her son Frankie with two other kidnapped children in a barn. She confronts the kidnappers, ultimately drowning Margo and leading to the death of Terry. The police arrive, and Karla's actions lead to the dismantling of a larger international sex trafficking ring, rescuing all the children involved.
"Kidnap" received mixed to negative reviews from critics, with a 35% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. However, some reviews suggest that despite its flaws, the film's second half delivers entertaining action sequences and a surprisingly tense final confrontation.