Movie spotlight
Kidnapped
When Scottish young gentleman David Balfour's father dies, he leaves school to collect his inheritance from uncle Ebenezer, who in turn sells the boy as a future slave to a pirate ship. When staunch Stuart dynasty supporter Alan Breck Stewart accidentally boards the ship, he takes David along on his escape back to Edinburgh. They part and meet again repeatedly, mutually helpful against the Redcoats and respectful, although David is loyal to the English crown, but learns about its cruel oppression. Both ultimately face their adversaries.
Insights
Plot Summary
In 1860s Australia, a young boy named Johnny is sent to live with his stern Uncle Josh after his father's death. He soon escapes to the Australian bush, where he is taken in by bushranger Tom Bell. Johnny learns about survival and loyalty from Bell, but their freedom is threatened when they are pursued by authorities and a notorious rival gang.
Critical Reception
Kidnapped (1995) is a family adventure film that received a generally mixed to positive reception. While praised for its scenic Australian setting and the performances of its young lead, it was sometimes criticized for a predictable plot and a less compelling portrayal of the historical period compared to other adaptations of Robert Louis Stevenson's novel.
What Reviewers Say
Visually appealing with strong Australian landscapes.
A decent family-friendly adventure with a solid performance from the young protagonist.
Somewhat formulaic and doesn't fully capture the adventure of the source material.
Google audience: Audience reception on Google is not widely available for this specific film.
Fun Fact
This Australian adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson's classic novel 'Kidnapped' relocates the story from Scotland to the Australian Outback during the 1860s, incorporating elements of bushranger lore.
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