- The Desperate Hours (1955)
- The Clearing (2004)
- The Kidnapping of Michel Houellebecq (2014)
- The Kidnapping of the President (1980)
- The Ransom of Red Chief (1998)
- The Abduction Club (2002)
- The Disappearance of Alice Creed (2009)
- The Abduction of Lindbergh Baby (1995)
- The Kidnapping of Edgardo Mortara (2023)
- The Girl in the Cafe (2005)
If you're fascinated by the dark side of human nature and the intricate plots of real-life kidnappings, this curated list of biopic films is just for you. These films delve into the minds of notorious kidnappers, exploring their motives, the execution of their crimes, and the dramatic aftermath. Each film offers a unique perspective on the psychology of abduction, providing not just entertainment but also a deeper understanding of these chilling events.

The Desperate Hours (1955)
Description: Based on the novel by Joseph Hayes, this film follows a family held hostage by escaped convicts, reflecting real-life hostage situations of the era.
Fact: Humphrey Bogart's final starring role, showcasing his ability to portray both charm and menace.


The Clearing (2004)
Description: Based on the real-life kidnapping of a wealthy businessman, this film delves into the psychological warfare between the kidnapper and his victim.
Fact: Robert Redford and Willem Dafoe give compelling performances, making the film a tense psychological thriller.


The Kidnapping of Michel Houellebecq (2014)
Description: This French film humorously portrays the supposed kidnapping of the controversial writer Michel Houellebecq, blending reality with fiction.
Fact: Michel Houellebecq plays himself in the film, adding a layer of meta-narrative to the story.


The Kidnapping of the President (1980)
Description: This film imagines the kidnapping of the President of the United States, exploring the political and personal ramifications of such a high-stakes crime.
Fact: The film was one of the first to use the concept of a presidential kidnapping in a thriller context.


The Ransom of Red Chief (1998)
Description: Based on O. Henry's short story, this film comically depicts the kidnapping of a mischievous boy who turns the tables on his captors.
Fact: The film was part of an anthology series, showcasing the versatility of the source material in different formats.


The Abduction Club (2002)
Description: Set in 18th-century Ireland, this film follows two bachelors who abduct heiresses to force them into marriage, a practice not uncommon at the time.
Fact: The film was inspired by historical accounts of similar abductions, providing a light-hearted take on a dark tradition.


The Disappearance of Alice Creed (2009)
Description: A meticulously planned kidnapping goes awry in this tense thriller, showcasing the dynamics between the kidnappers and their victim.
Fact: The film was shot in just 15 days, with the entire movie taking place in just three locations.


The Abduction of Lindbergh Baby (1995)
Description: This film recounts the infamous kidnapping of Charles Lindbergh's son, one of the most shocking crimes of the 20th century. It explores the investigation, the trial, and the eventual execution of Bruno Hauptmann.
Fact: The film was shot in the actual locations where the events took place, adding an eerie authenticity to the narrative.


The Kidnapping of Edgardo Mortara (2023)
Description: A poignant tale of a Jewish boy taken from his family by the Papal States in 1858, this film examines the intersection of religion, law, and family in a historical context.
Fact: The film was critically acclaimed for its sensitive portrayal of religious tensions and the emotional turmoil of the Mortara family.


The Girl in the Cafe (2005)
Description: While not a traditional biopic, this film captures the essence of a kidnapping scenario at a G8 summit, highlighting the political and personal implications of such an act.
Fact: The film was written by Richard Curtis, known for his romantic comedies, showcasing his versatility in tackling serious subjects.
