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Kidnapping is the central storyline element for many well-known movies of several different genres. Whether we’re talking action movies or horror flicks, it isn’t hard to figure out how such a terrifying act would fit into the narrative and make for a thrilling premise that keeps viewers invested.
Through the years, a few films have managed to master this element; an example that stands out is, of course, the iconic first installment of theTakenfranchise. Nevertheless, plenty of other movies from different genres have also integrated it in a terrifying (but compelling) way. On Reddit, users share their favorite flicks featuring kidnapping situations, fromThe Black PhonetoPrisoners.
Updated on July 24, 2025, by Daniela Gama:
The upcomingA Haunting in Venice, in whichKenneth Branaghis set to reprise his role as the iconic detective Poirot, is scheduled to hit theaters onSeptember 15. Even though the film doesn’t necessarily involve kidnapping, it provides audiences with a puzzling mystery, just like movies that fit into this sub-genre. Check out some thrilling watches to check while the wait isn’t over.
13’Taken' (2008)
One of the most unforgettable action movies out there,TakenstarsLiam Neesonand features a good dose of memorable lines that are still quoted today. The actor plays a retired CIA agent who puts his skills to practice and goes on a quest across Europe to find his missing daughter, who was kidnapped while on a trip to Paris.
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Out of all movies,Takenhad to take — no pun intended — a top spot for Reddit, as it is one of the most referenced movies in pop culture and also one of the many that deal with this specific storyline element best. When aRedditormentioned the film on the platform, though,Bmac_TLDRmade a point to highlight that the first one was the real deal. “Don’t bother with the other 2,” they wrote.
Watch on Starz
12’The Black Phone' (2021)
This 2021film starringEthan Hawkeis an adaptation of the 2004 short story of the same name byJoeHill. Directed byScott Derrickson,The Black Phonecenters on the escape story of a 13-year-old boy (Mason Thames) who receives calls on a disconnected phone from a child killer’s past victims after being captured and held captive in a basement.
Although the horror thriller counts on mixed reviews, it handles the kidnapping storyline really well. On the platform,diavolo_187wrote, “Go to your local movie theater right now and watchBlack Phonewhile you still can,” when a user asked for recommendations.
Watch on Prime Video
11’Fresh' (2022)
StarringSebastian StanandDaisy Edgar-Jones,Freshis a compelling movie that depicts the mysterious relationship between Noa and the charming Steve, which later turns into something more sinister than the former could have ever imagined when she accepts his invitation to a romantic weekend getaway.
Just likePhantomKitten73suggested, “Fresh” is indeed among the best kidnapping movies that blends the genres of horror and thriller seamlessly. It is entertaining and, at times, very disturbing, but totally worth the watch (especially for that incredibly satisfying ending).
Watch on Hulu
10’Buffalo 66' (1998)
Featuring what is regarded as one ofChristinaRicci’s best performances,Buffalo 66is an interesting addition to the sub-genre and definitely not your usual kidnapping flick. When Billy (VincentGallo, who also directed the film) is released after serving five years in prison, he sets out to kidnap a teenage student in hopes of making his parents believe that is soon to be married.
When aRedditormentioned “Buffalo 66” on the platform,mollyclairehwas quick to reply, “Such a great movie.” In fact, Gallo’s indie crime comedy makes for an unusual and intriguing movie that will likely appeal to fans of abduction movies, and also provide food for thought about how tough a loveless life can actually be.
Watch on Roku
9’Breakdown’ (1997)
This underappreciatedKurt Russellmovie depicts a nightmarish tale of a man’s desperate attempt to find his missing wife after his car breaks down in the middle of the desert. The film is directed byJonathan Mostow.
RELATED:Essential Kurt Russell Movies
According toanasui1on the platform,Breakdownis the “best American movie about a kidnapping ever.” Not only is this ’90s thriller packed with intense suspense that grabs the audience’s attention from the very first moment, but also features a memorable central performance.
8’The Disappearance of Alice Creed' (2009)
InJ Blakeson’s crime thrillerThe Disappearance of Alice Creed, two ex-convicts (Eddie MarsanandMartin Compston) kidnap the daughter (Gemma Arterton) of a wealthy man and hold her hostage in an abandoned apartment in exchange for her father’s money.
As it turns out, thesurprisingly good 2009 movieastonished many viewers, exceeding many people’s expectations, includingSanDiablo’s, who commented that the film surprised them “by how good it was.” AnotherRedditoralso recommended the feature in a different post and proceeded to explain its premise.
7’Split' (2016)
StarringJames McAvoy,Splitis an engaging horror thriller that follows the kidnapping of three girls (Anya Taylor-Joy,Jessica Sula, andHaley Lu Richardson) by a man diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder, as he has 23 distinct identities. In the meantime, they must attempt to escape before a 24th one develops.
While it has been criticized for its depiction of mental health,M. Night Shyamalan’s memorable and anxiety-inducing film is seemingly a fan favorite on Reddit. “Splitis could be a solid choice,” anow-deleted Redditorwrote. “I highly recommendSplit, directed by M. Night Shyamalan. The hype around this movie is pretty unavoidable, but if you haven’t seen it, I definitely think you should,” anotherReddit useradded. When it comes to movies about kidnapping,Splitis assuredly at the top of the list.
Watch on Fubo
6’I Saw the Devil' (2010)
Anunsettling South Korean featurethrough and through,Jee-woon Kim’sI Saw the Devilis guaranteed to blow viewers' minds with its thrilling narrative. It centers around a private detective’s (Lee Byung-hun) journey to find a serial killer and avenge his victims.
When a user on the platform asked for recommendations regarding kidnapping/horror flicks,RCH2288couldn’t help suggesting the 2010 film, which features a perfect blend of both genres. “This has everything in your description,” they wrote. In truth,I Saw the Devilis likely one of the most absorbing thrillers out there and is likely to astound audience members with its jittery narrative.
Watch on Hoopla
5’Raising Arizona' (1987)
Directed by the undeniably talentedCoen brothers,Raising Arizonais one of the rare examples of a well-executed comedy in the “kidnapping genre.” The enjoyable feature starsNicolas CageandHollyHunteras a couple who longs to have babies but cannot. The move? You guessed it: Snatching a baby and attempting to keep it low-key.
RELATED:Every Coen Brothers Crime Movie, Ranked
It’s pretty clear how users feel about this engaging flick on the platform. “Everyone knows the greatest kidnapping film of all time isRaising Arizona,” aRedditorwrote, with many people agreeing. This innovative 1987 screwball comedy counts on many humorous moments and is assured to provide viewers with a great time.
4’Prisoners' (2013)
A masterclass feature byDenis Villeneuve(like many of the director’s work),Prisonersmakes for a compelling watch involving abduction, as it focuses on the case of two young girls who go missing, which leads Keller Dover (played byHugh Jackman) to take the matter into his own hands.
Of course, the 2013 crime drama had to make it to a spot on the list; its nail-biting narrative and brilliant execution make every second worth the watch. “I watched it a couple of weeks ago, great film,“Bodymasterwrote. “THE GOAT. A f**king panic attack of a movie,“ratmfreakcommented on another post.
