BOTTOM LINE
Not Perfect, but Tense and Gripping
PLATFORM
PRIME VIDEO
RUNTIME
1h 33m
What Is the Film About?
Set against the backdrop of a bustling railway station in a remote village, *Stolen* entwines the fate of two brothers, Gautam and Raman, as they rush to attend their mother’s second marriage. However, the atmosphere takes a dark turn when **a baby named Champa is kidnapped**, thrusting the brothers into a whirlwind of chaos and emotional turmoil. What follows is a harrowing journey as Raman and a reluctant Gautam scramble to aid the frenzied mother, Jhumpa, in her desperate search for her missing child.
Powerful Performances
The film features **Abhishek Banerjee**, the singular familiar face in this ensemble cast, who displays an impressive range as he navigates the life-and-death stakes of the story. His transformation throughout the film is both credible and captivating, making it hard for the audience to look away.
Meanwhile, **Mia Maelzer shines** as the resilient mother. Her portrayal deftly balances intensity and vulnerability without resorting to melodrama, establishing her as a poignant figure in this desperate saga. **Shubham Vardhan**, as Raman, embodies quiet integrity, leaving a lasting impression alongside formidable performances from **Harish Khanna** and **Shahidur Rahman**, who lend solid support to the story’s emotional core.
A Tense Narrative with Deep Analysis
With its strong, concept-driven premise, *Stolen* exemplifies what the OTT landscape can cultivate: gripping narratives that give lesser-known actors a chance to shine. The **narrative is tightly woven**, eschewing any superfluous elements, ensuring viewers remain on the edge of their seats. The simple yet powerful story revolves around the infant’s abduction and the ensuing chaos, while the interactions between characters evolve organically.
As the stakes heighten, Gautam finds himself ensnared amid legal troubles and a violent mob, wrestling with a **corrupt system** and a desperate mother. The storytelling, raw and visceral, showcases a world where **helplessness reigns**, expertly illustrated by director **Karan Tejpal**. His vision amplifies the seriousness of the brothers’ predicament, set against a backdrop devoid of privilege.
Complex Character Interactions
The film effectively highlights a **subtle tension** between the brothers rooted in familial grief, adding an emotional weight to their journey. While Gautam initially comes off as less likable, his character must evolve amid unfolding crises. This evolution taps into the broader themes of ego, privilege, and the fragility of life—and how misinformation can quickly incite mob violence.
Technical Brilliance
In addition to a compelling storyline, *Stolen* also dazzles with impressive **technical finesse**. The score, composed by **Arpad Bondy**, skillfully builds tension without falling into cliches. Supported by **Susmit Nath’s sound design**, which incorporates ambient sounds to enhance the viewing experience, and **Ishaan Ghosh’s gritty cinematography**, the film effectively captures the urgency of its scenes.
Highlights
- Gripping screenplay
- Technical finesse in stunts and cinematography
- Sharp writing and commendable performances
Drawbacks
- Briefly loses momentum in the latter half
- Predictability in Gautam’s characterization
Final Thoughts
Upon reviewing *Stolen*, it’s clear that this film resonates on multiple levels. The gripping narrative and powerful performances ensure it captures the viewer’s attention throughout its runtime. The insights it provides into the harsh realities of society, coupled with its **raw emotional impact**, make it a worthy watch.
Did I Enjoy It? Yes!
Will You Recommend It? Certainly!
Stolen OTT Movie Review by M9
