Movie spotlight
The Kidnapping
Hans has killed the dog of Firmin, a shepherd. Wild with rage, Firmin kidnaps Elsi, Hans' fiancée and locks her up at his home. Hans, a peddler, vows to find the missing girl. This is what he does and he manages, with the help of Mânu, the village idiot, to give Elsi a letter. On seeing her, the changeling falls in love at first sight with the young woman. Elsi soon realizes that Mânu can become her instrument of vengeance.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young girl, Millie, is kidnapped by a pair of inept criminals who quickly find her more trouble than she's worth. Millie, resourceful and observant, tries to manipulate her captors while her frantic parents organize a search with the help of a determined detective. The film follows Millie's attempts to outsmart her abductors and engineer her own rescue, leading to a series of comedic and suspenseful encounters.
Critical Reception
The Kidnapping (1934) was met with a generally positive reception, particularly praised for its charming child performance and its blend of suspense and lightheartedness. Critics found it an engaging crime drama with a strong focus on its young protagonist's resilience and wit.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for Jane Withers' precocious and captivating performance.
Noted for its effective blend of suspense and family-friendly humor.
Appreciated for its inventive plot and the young protagonist's cleverness.
Google audience: Information not available.
Awards & Accolades
None notable.
Fun Fact
This film was one of Jane Withers' early starring roles, establishing her as a popular child actress of the 1930s.
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