Review of Kidnapped (2010) by Adam K — 15 Mar 2014

This is an interesting case study in the philosophy of star ratings. It is an entirely unpleasant film, difficult to watch and with no redeeming factors. There are no characters of interest, the plot simply maintains a gradual increase in tension and violence, and there aren't really even any spooks or frights. It indulges in violence and fear for their own sakes, without a resolution or context. It doesn't even create the sense of peril and suspense most horror movies ply. Rather, it's a simple vicarious nightmare, in a more literal sense than usual (most people don't have nightmares about ghosts and monsters, but merciless thieves, I imagine, are a thing people actually fear).

So it's not the sort of experience many people would seek out; it'd be good for teens who want to prove their degree of desensitization to violence, and for adults too jaded by happy endings to buy into cinema emotionally. It is elegantly constructed and gut-punch effective, a really impressive feat of emotional control. I suppose that earns it a high rating, but until the film's grip wears off, you will probably be angry you were made to endure it.