Kidnapped
David McCallum stars as the rebellious Alan Breck Stewart, and this ambitious serial (a co-production between HTV and Germany's Tele-Munchen) also features a host of British character actors, including Bill Simpson, Patrick Allen, Andrew Keir, Patrick Magee and Frank Windsor. When young David Balfour arrives at his uncle's bleak Scottish house to claim his inheritance, his relative tries to murder him then has him shipped off to be sold as a slave in the colonies. Luckily for the lad, he strikes up a friendship with Alan Breck Stewart, who is on the run after Bonnie Prince Charlie's defeat at Culloden. When a ship's captain tries to kill Breck for his money, the two manage to get to land and set out for Edinburgh, dodging the ruthless Redcoats along the way.
Insights
Plot Summary
A wealthy businesswoman's life is turned upside down when her young daughter is kidnapped for ransom. As the desperate mother navigates the perilous situation, she must confront her own past and make difficult choices to ensure her daughter's safe return. The tense ordeal tests her strength and resolve against manipulative criminals.
Critical Reception
Kidnapped (1979) received a mixed to negative reception from critics upon its release. While some acknowledged the suspenseful premise and the performances of its lead actors, many found the plot predictable and the execution lacking. Audience reception was similarly lukewarm, with the film failing to make a significant impact.
What Reviewers Say
- The film attempts to create suspense but often falls short due to a predictable plot.
- Performances from the veteran cast are generally competent but cannot elevate the material.
- The pacing and overall execution leave much to be desired.
Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for 'Kidnapped (1979)' is not readily available, making it difficult to summarize audience sentiment on that platform.
Fun Fact
The film was shot in and around the Los Angeles area, utilizing various suburban and urban locations to depict the affluent environment of the kidnapped child's family.
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