"Stolen," directed by Karan Tejpal, is a gripping thriller now streaming on Amazon Prime Video that delivers a punch to the gut with its raw portrayal of societal divides and the desperate search for a missing child. The film, starring Abhishek Banerjee and Shubham Vardhan as brothers caught in a harrowing ordeal, pulls no punches in its depiction of a chaotic night where everything seems to go wrong.
The movie begins with Gautam (Abhishek Banerjee) arriving at a sparsely occupied railway station to pick up his younger brother, Raman (Shubham Vardhan). Their plans are disrupted when a woman named Jhumpa (Mia Maelzer) discovers her baby has been kidnapped. Raman is initially suspected, but soon the brothers find themselves entangled in Jhumpa's desperate quest to find her child. This sets off a chain of events that forces them out of their privileged world and into the harsh realities of rural India.
"Stolen" is a taut, emotional rollercoaster that benefits from its efficient storytelling. Clocking in at just over 90 minutes, the film wastes no time in setting up the premise and escalating the tension. There are no unnecessary detours or distracting subplots; instead, the narrative remains tightly focused on the central conflict, ensuring that viewers are kept on the edge of their seats. The film explores themes such as mistrust, violence, and child kidnapping. It also touches upon illegal practices, like faking documents and illegal surrogacy. It serves as a reminder to be aware of fake news and not believe everything circulated on social media.
The performances in "Stolen" are particularly noteworthy. Abhishek Banerjee delivers a compelling performance as Gautam, capturing the character's initial reluctance and eventual transformation as he becomes invested in the search for the missing child. Shubham Vardhan provides a subtle yet effective portrayal of Raman, the morally driven brother who instigates their involvement. Mia Maelzer is captivating as Jhumpa, embodying the desperation and anguish of a mother who has lost everything.
Karan Tejpal's direction, making his debut, is commendable for its ability to create and sustain tension throughout the film. The cinematography, with its use of natural light and long takes, adds to the sense of realism and unease. The setting of rural India, with its dusty landscapes and local dialect, further enhances the film's gritty atmosphere. The director's effort to use unique shots and create an immersive experience is noticeable.
While some reviews suggest that the film's technical aspects are mediocre and the action scenes lack impact, others praise the film's ability to immerse the audience in the brothers' perilous journey. Some viewers may find certain scenes gritty and bloody, and the shaky camera work can be distracting at times. However, the film's overall impact lies in its ability to shed light on overlooked aspects of India, such as the divide between the rich and poor and the pervasiveness of mob culture.
"Stolen" isn't perfect, some find that it leans a little too positively into the light at the end, but it is a well-acted, constructed thriller that leaves a lasting impression. It's a film that demands attention.
