Kidnapped

Synopsis

Kidnapped (original title: Únos), directed by Jiří Weiss and released in 1953, is a gripping Czechoslovak drama that delves into the tense and complex themes of political oppression and personal courage. Set in a post-war context, the film follows the harrowing story of individuals entangled in the dangerous game of ideological conflict and repression. The narrative highlights the psychological and emotional strain experienced by those caught in the crossfire, portraying their struggle for justice and freedom amid widespread fear and suspicion. With compelling performances and a stark, evocative atmosphere, Kidnapped offers a poignant glimpse into a turbulent era that influenced many lives.

Cast

• 

  Jiří Dohnal

  passenger Horvát, deputy

• 

  Ladislav Pešek

  passenger Prokop, development worker

• Antonín Klimša

  passenger Gerbec, miner

• 

  Bohuš Záhorský

  passenger Ryšánek, associate professor

• 

  Jaroslav Mareš

  passenger Tonic, fitter

• 

  Božena Obrová

  passenger Liduška, Toník's wife

Reviews

Critical reception of Kidnapped has been mixed, reflecting its niche historical context and stylistic choices. On IMDb, the film holds a rating of 4.8/10 based on user reviews, indicating a generally lukewarm response from contemporary viewers. Some praise the film for its bold thematic exploration of political tension and the moral dilemmas faced by characters, appreciating Jiří Weiss's attempt to capture the socio-political climate of the time. However, criticisms often point to the pacing and the dated filmmaking techniques, which may not resonate well with modern audiences. While the narrative's seriousness is appreciated, some find it heavy-handed or lacking in dramatic engagement. Rotten Tomatoes does not have an aggregated score for this title, reflecting its limited exposure outside Czechoslovakian cinema circles. Metacritic also lacks data, underscoring the film's status as a niche historical piece rather than a mainstream success. Overall, Kidnapped is valued more for its historical and cultural significance than its entertainment appeal.