Bad Acting and worse Bad Screenplay

A Major Disappointment

This is a tender, generous movie that likes its characters and presents them as real people, full of flaws and strengths.

While it is a pity that the story wasn't told with more visual finesse, this is trivial compared to our real-world problems. It takes a good movie to put that into perspective.

Kidnapped is my favourite book of all time.It says everything there is to say about true friendship and loyalty against all odds. I feel the same way about Walt Disney's glorious film version.Having always loved and admired Peter Finch,I dream about being David to his Alan; an adventure I live and re-live.Both book and film represent my ultimate fantasy. David Allen

Kidnapped is directed by Robert Stevenson, is based on the novel by Robert Louis Stevenson and stars Peter Finch, James MacArthur, John Laurie, Bernard Lee and Peter O'Toole.David Balfour (James MacArthur)gets caught up in the adventure of a lifetime when he befriends the mysterious Alan Breck Stewart (Peter Finch). Stewart is a Jacobite and is wanted by the British. Stewart and Balfour find themselves pursued by soldiers and must be careful who they trust (including some fellow Scotsmen).This version really focuses on the growing friendship between Balfour and Stewart, they come to trust one another and Stewart is grateful for the younger mans help and loyalty. Finch is excellent portraying Stewart as a brave and fearless man who is easy to like and trust, he also shows that he is quick tempered, a drinker and is very impatient. We also see Balfour being taught how to survive in the world, Stewart teaches him how to trust, how to survive and even when necessary how to kill.There's strong support especially from John Laurie as Balfour's scheming uncle Ebenezer, he steals every scene he is in. Bernard Lee is excellent as a ships Captain who has a conscience despite doing some bad things and a young Peter O'Toole is memorable as Robin MacGregor, the scene where he and Finch have a contest to see who is better at bagpipe playing is a highlight.

I am a big fan of Disney and Kidnapped! is no exception. While dragging in spots, it is a rollicking good time and very faithful to the spirit of Robert Louis Stevenson's fine book. The costumes, cinematography and sets are typically splendid, and the score is very rousing. The story is exciting with plenty of cool and intelligent moments and also some energetic action sequences, the script is literate, the direction is solid and we are further treated to a brilliant performance from Peter Finch in one of those roles I will best remember him by. The support performances are equally impressive, in particular it was great to see a handsome Peter O'Toole. Overall, a fine adaptation and for me one of the better live-action Disney films. 9/10 Bethany Cox

When I watched this movie as a child, I was amazed and in awe by this adventure story that unfolded before me. In spite of the fact that I'm now older and more critical of the films I view, I couldn't help but admire the acting of Peter Finch and the others. Upon a recent viewing, I realized that much of the depth that makes this film so enjoyable was extremely overlooked in my youth. While the adventure is no "Jurassic Park," the story that unfolds about friendship, courage and determination allows me to recognize this film, not only as a childhood favorite, but as a timeless classic which I think people of all ages can and will enjoy. Rent it, buy it or borrow it--you won't be disappointed!