The 55+ Best Kidnapping & Hostage Movies
- Liam Neeson, Maggie Grace, Famke Janssen
When his teenage daughter, Kim, is kidnapped by human traffickers in Paris, former CIA operative Bryan Mills taps into his unique set of skills to launch a relentless pursuit. As he navigates the seedy European underworld, Bryan systematically eliminates those responsible for the abduction, vowing to save Kim before it's too late. Liam Neeson's breakthrough performance in this action-packed thriller spawned two sequels and redefined his career as an action hero.
More Taken- #166 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #31 of 191 onThe Best Movies For Men
- #14 of 82 onThe Most Rewatchable Action Movies
- James Caan, Kathy Bates, Frances Sternhagen
An adaptation of Stephen King's novel of the same name, this psychological thriller follows a successful novelist, Paul Sheldon, who is held captive by an obsessed fan, Annie Wilkes, after a car accident during a snowstorm. Annie forces Paul to write a novel tailored to her whims, ultimately revealing her increasingly unstable and violent nature. This chilling tale showcases Kathy Bates' Oscar-winning performance as one of cinema's most memorable captors.
- Denzel Washington, Dakota Fanning, Christopher Walken
This pulse-pounding thriller features a washed-up former CIA operative, John Creasy, who finds redemption as a bodyguard for the young daughter of a wealthy Mexican family. When the girl is kidnapped in broad daylight, Creasy embarks on a bloody mission of vengeance against the powerful criminal organization responsible. Denzel Washington's intense portrayal of the protagonist, coupled with Tony Scott's stylish direction, makes this film an unforgettable entry in the kidnap and revenge genre.
More Man on Fire- #15 of 112 onThe Greatest Movie Remakes Of All Time
- #18 of 99 onThe Best Movies Of 2004, Ranked
- #132 of 308 onThe 295+ Best Movies For Guys
- Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal, Viola Davis
This tense and thought-provoking drama revolves around the abduction of two young girls and the desperate efforts of their parents and law enforcement to find them. The film questions the limits of morality when faced with the unimaginable, as one father, played by Hugh Jackman, takes extreme measures into his own hands. The gripping performances, intricate storytelling, and moral ambiguity make this a must-watch for fans of crime dramas.
More Prisoners- Dig Deeper...15 Captivating Movies Like 'Prisoners'
- #11 of 252 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #95 of 125 onThe 100+ Grossest Movies Ever
- Halle Berry, Abigail Breslin, Morris Chestnut
A former 911 operator, Jordan Turner, haunted by a botched call, is dragged back into action when she receives a distressing call from a kidnapped girl, Casey. As Jordan races against the clock to locate her, she relies on her instincts and resourcefulness to anticipate the abductor's moves and save Casey's life. Halle Berry's immersive performance in this high-stakes thriller keeps viewers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
- Mel Gibson, Rene Russo, Gary Sinise
This high-stakes thriller follows wealthy businessman Tom Mullen as he faces the ultimate dilemma when his son is kidnapped and held for ransom. Deciding to take a risky approach, Tom publicly offers the ransom money as a bounty on the kidnappers' heads, initiating a dangerous cat-and-mouse game. Mel Gibson's intense performance and Ron Howard's confident direction make this film a gripping exploration of the lengths a desperate father will go to save his child.
More Ransom- #26 of 117 onThe Best Movies Of 1996
- #29 of 112 onThe Greatest Movie Remakes Of All Time
- #163 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
- Brie Larson, Jacob Tremblay, Joan Allen
Based on Emma Donoghue's novel, this heart-wrenching drama follows the story of a young woman, Joy, and her son, Jack, who are held captive in a small room by a kidnapper for several years. The film explores the resilience of the human spirit and the bond between a mother and her child in the most unimaginable circumstances. Brie Larson's Oscar-winning performance and the film's unflinching portrayal of trauma make it a powerful and unforgettable viewing experience.
More Room- #77 of 125 onThe 100+ Grossest Movies Ever
- #37 of 133 onThe Most Utterly Depressing Movies Ever Made
- #6 of 14 onThe Most Horrifying Non-Horror Movies Ever Made
- Jodie Foster, Forest Whitaker, Dwight Yoakam
Directed by David Fincher, this tense thriller follows a mother and daughter who lock themselves in a fortified panic room during a home invasion, only to discover that the intruders are after something hidden within the room. As the situation escalates, both sides must outwit each other to stay alive and claim the prized possession. The masterful use of suspense, claustrophobic settings, and a strong female lead, played by Jodie Foster, contribute to this film's lasting impact.
More Panic Room- #62 of 252 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #11 of 152 onThe Best Movies of 2002
- #55 of 168 onThe 160+ Scariest Psychological Thrillers
- James McAvoy, Anya Taylor-Joy, Betty Buckley
This psychological horror film introduces a man with multiple personalities, Kevin Wendell Crumb, who kidnaps three young girls. As the captives struggle to survive and escape, they encounter several of Kevin's 23 distinct personalities, leading to a chilling revelation involving his terrifying 24th alter ego. James McAvoy's masterful performance and M. Night Shyamalan's signature twist ending make this an unforgettable addition to the horror-thriller genre.
More Split- #17 of 252 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #27 of 107 onThe Best Intelligent Horror Movies
- #9 of 118 onThe Best Horror Movie Sequels
- Keanu Reeves, Dennis Hopper, Sandra Bullock
This adrenaline-fueled action film features a rogue bomber who plants a bomb on a Los Angeles city bus, set to detonate if the vehicle's speed drops below 50 mph. LAPD officer Jack Traven, played by Keanu Reeves, must find a way to save the passengers on board, all while keeping the bus at a constant high speed. Speed's non-stop action and creative premise have solidified its status as a classic in both the action and hostage genres.
More Speed- Dig Deeper...Behind-The-Scenes Stories From The Making Of 'Speed'
- #6 of 99 onThe Best 1990s Action Movies
- #26 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
- Harrison Ford, Gary Oldman, Glenn Close
This action-packed political thriller features Harrison Ford as the President of the United States, who must employ his military skills when his plane, Air Force One, is hijacked by terrorists. The film presents a tense and claustrophobic setting as the President fights to protect his family and retake control of the aircraft. The combination of tight storytelling, gripping action sequences, and Ford's captivating performance make this a standout in the hostage drama category.
More Air Force One- #34 of 50 onThe Biggest Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
- #341 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #7 of 95 onThe 100+ Best Movies Of 1997
- Morgan Freeman, Monica Potter, Michael Wincott
In this adaptation of James Patterson's best-selling novel, forensic psychologist Alex Cross, played by Morgan Freeman, is drawn into a kidnapping case involving the daughter of a US senator. As Cross and his partner work to unravel the mystery, they uncover a dangerous web of deceit and corruption. The intricate plot and Freeman's compelling portrayal of the intelligent sleuth make this a worthy entry in the crime thriller genre.
More Along Came a Spider- #164 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- #29 of 81 onThe 75+ Best Whodunit Murder Mystery Movies
- #30 of 113 onThe Best Movies Of 2001
- Jodie Foster, Anthony Hopkins, Scott Glenn
This iconic psychological thriller follows rookie FBI agent Clarice Starling, played by Jodie Foster, who is tasked with interviewing the incarcerated and cannibalistic psychiatrist Dr. Hannibal Lecter, portrayed by Anthony Hopkins, to gain insights into a serial kidnapper. As Starling becomes increasingly entwined in Lecter's manipulative games, she finds herself in a race against time to save the latest victim. This critically acclaimed film, which won five Academy Awards, is an essential watch for any fan of crime thrillers.
- Jason Statham, Shu Qi, François Berléand
In this high-octane action film, Jason Statham stars as Frank Martin, a skilled mercenary driver who is hired to transport a mysterious package. When he discovers that the package is actually a kidnapped woman, Frank must decide whether to continue his assignment or risk everything to save her. Featuring thrilling car chases and explosive fight scenes, this film established Statham as an action star and spawned several sequels and a television series.
More The Transporter- #130 of 191 onThe Best Movies For Men
- #104 of 136 onThe 100+ Best Movies For Date Night
- #28 of 152 onThe Best Movies of 2002
- Rachel McAdams, Cillian Murphy, Brian Cox
This psychological thriller takes place primarily on a red-eye flight, where a young woman, Lisa, is held captive by a charming but dangerous stranger who reveals his plan to use her job at a luxury hotel to execute a political assassination. As Lisa navigates her precarious situation, she must outsmart her captor both in the air and on the ground. Rachel McAdams and Cillian Murphy's electrifying performances make this a thrilling and unsettling watch.
More Red Eye- #42 of 143 onThe Best Movies of 2005
- #2 of 18 onThe Best Horror Movies About Airplanes
- #15 of 48 onThe 40+ Best Mystery Movies On Prime Video
- Colin Farrell, Kiefer Sutherland, Forest Whitaker
This taut and claustrophobic thriller centers on a New York publicist, Stu Shepard, who becomes trapped in a phone booth by a sniper who knows intimate details of his life. As the police and media swarm around him, Stu must engage with the enigmatic caller and face the consequences of his actions. Colin Farrell's riveting performance and Joel Schumacher's tense direction make this a unique and gripping film.
More Phone Booth- #81 of 252 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #23 of 152 onThe Best Movies of 2002
- #34 of 152 onThe Best Movies Of 2003, Ranked
- Morgan Freeman, Ashley Judd, Cary Elwes
Morgan Freeman reprises his role as forensic psychologist Alex Cross in this chilling thriller, adapted from another James Patterson novel. Cross is drawn into a serial kidnapper's twisted game when his own niece becomes one of the victims. The film's eerie atmosphere and suspenseful plot create a captivating and unsettling experience for viewers.
More Kiss the Girls- #29 of 95 onThe 100+ Best Movies Of 1997
- #22 of 81 onThe 75+ Best Whodunit Murder Mystery Movies
- #9 of 25 onGreat Movies About Serial Killers That Are Totally Dramatic
- Tom Hanks, Catherine Keener, Barkhad Abdi
Based on a true story, this intense thriller follows the harrowing ordeal of Captain Richard Phillips, played by Tom Hanks, whose cargo ship is hijacked by Somali pirates. As the situation escalates, Phillips must use his resourcefulness and courage to protect his crew and survive a captive nightmare. The film's gritty realism, anchored by Hanks' Oscar-nominated performance, makes it an unforgettable entry in the hostage genre.
More Captain Phillips- #175 of 191 onThe Best Movies For Men
- #5 of 44 onThe 40+ Best Lost At Sea Movies
- #15 of 36 onThe 35 Best Kidnapping Thriller Movies
- Denzel Washington, Robert Duvall, James Woods
This emotionally charged drama explores the lengths a desperate father will go to save his dying son when his health insurance refuses to cover a life-saving heart transplant. John Q, played by Denzel Washington, takes the hospital's emergency room hostage to secure the operation for his child. This film raises questions about the ethics of healthcare and the power of a parent's love, backed by Washington's powerful performance.
More John Q- #9 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #47 of 152 onThe Best Movies of 2002
- #46 of 67 onThe Best Father-Son Movies Ever Made
- Liam Neeson, Maggie Grace, Famke Janssen
The second installment in the popular action series sees Liam Neeson reprising his role as former CIA operative Bryan Mills, who must once again use his unique set of skills when his ex-wife is taken hostage by vengeful criminals during a trip to Istanbul. This action-packed sequel delivers non-stop thrills, as Mills systematically fights his way through the city to save his loved one. The film's intense action sequences and Neeson's iconic performance make it a worthy follow-up to the original.
More Taken 2- #2 of 15 onThe Best Liam Neeson Action Movies
- #37 of 40 onThe Best Action Movies Of The 2010s, Ranked
- #9 of 30 onThe Best French Action Movies
- Bruce Willis, Alan Rickman, Bonnie Bedelia
This iconic action film stars Bruce Willis as NYPD officer John McClane, who finds himself trapped in a Los Angeles skyscraper when it's seized by terrorists led by the enigmatic Hans Gruber, played by Alan Rickman. As the hostages are taken, McClane must rely on his resourcefulness and courage to take down the criminals and save his wife. Widely regarded as one of the best action movies of all time, Die Hard remains a thrilling and influential entry in the hostage genre.
- Gerard Butler, Aaron Eckhart, Morgan Freeman
In this high-octane action film, a disgraced Secret Service agent, Mike Banning, played by Gerard Butler, must defend the White House from a North Korean terrorist group that has taken the President hostage. As the situation escalates, Banning relies on his training and resourcefulness to thwart the terrorists' plans and save the leader of the free world. This adrenaline-fueled film is an exciting and entertaining entry in the kidnapping and hostage genre.
- Denzel Washington, Clive Owen, Jodie Foster
This intelligent and stylish heist film features a master thief who orchestrates a meticulously planned bank robbery, taking hostages in the process. As a standoff ensues, a determined NYPD detective, played by Denzel Washington, enters tense negotiations with the cunning criminal. Directed by Spike Lee, this film combines suspenseful storytelling with an all-star cast to deliver a tense and memorable hostage drama.
More Inside Man- #15 of 101 onThe Best Movies Of 2006
- #2 of 14 onMind-Boggling Riddles From Movies
- #26 of 38 onThe Best Movies Ever to Come Out in March
- Bruce Willis, Kevin Pollak, Ben Foster
In this high-stakes thriller, Bruce Willis stars as a former hostage negotiator who is drawn back into his dangerous profession when a family is taken captive by a group of criminals during a botched robbery. As the situation unravells, Willis' character must rely on his wits and experience to save the hostages, all while dealing with a personal crisis. The film's suspenseful premise and Willis' engaging performance make it an exciting entry in the hostage drama category.
More Hostage- #82 of 143 onThe Best Movies of 2005
- #17 of 35 onThe Best Thriller Movies with a Hostage
- #96 of 120 onThe 95+ Best R-Rated Action Movies
- Liam Neeson, Forest Whitaker, Maggie Grace
The third and final installment in the popular action series sees Liam Neeson returning as former CIA operative Bryan Mills, who is framed for the murder of his ex-wife and must use his unique set of skills to clear his name and protect his daughter from vengeful criminals. The film's relentless action and Neeson's iconic character make it an entertaining conclusion to the thrilling trilogy.
More Taken 3- #74 of 104 onThe 100+ Best Third Movies In A Film Series
- #2 of 14 onThings You Didn't Know About The Making Of Recent Action Movies
- #20 of 54 onThe Most Unrealistic Action Films
- Casey Affleck, Michelle Monaghan, Morgan Freeman
In this gritty crime drama directed by Ben Affleck, a child goes missing in a working-class Boston neighborhood, and her distraught mother hires a private investigator, played by Casey Affleck, to find her. As the investigation unfolds, it reveals a complicated web of corruption, violence, and moral ambiguity that forces the detective to question his own beliefs and values. The film's tense atmosphere and nuanced performances make it a standout in the kidnapping thriller genre.
More Gone Baby Gone- #78 of 252 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #13 of 139 onThe Best Movies Of 2007
- #37 of 63 onThe Greatest Directorial Debuts Of All Time
- Channing Tatum, Jamie Foxx, Maggie Gyllenhaal
In this high-octane action film, Channing Tatum stars as a Capitol police officer who must protect the President, played by Jamie Foxx, when the White House is overrun by a paramilitary group seeking to overthrow the government. The film delivers non-stop thrills and explosive set-pieces, making it an entertaining addition to the kidnap and hostage genre.
More White House Down- #58 of 65 onThe Most Patriotic Movies Of All Time
- #17 of 23 onGreat Movies So Patriotic, They Are Basically American Propaganda
- #43 of 54 onThe Most Unrealistic Action Films
- Tom Cruise, Jamie Foxx, Jada Pinkett Smith
This stylish crime thriller, directed by Michael Mann, follows a Los Angeles cab driver, played by Jamie Foxx, who becomes the unwitting accomplice to a hitman, portrayed by Tom Cruise, on a deadly night-long killing spree. As the stakes rise, the cab driver must navigate the dangerous underworld and outwit his captor to survive. The film's tense atmosphere, visually stunning cinematography, and memorable performances make it a standout in the thriller genre.
More Collateral- #28 of 99 onThe Best Movies Of 2004, Ranked
- #16 of 44 onThe 40+ Best Tom Cruise Movies, Ranked By Fans
- #5 of 15 onMovies Where The Villain Is Secretly The Main Character
- Wesley Snipes, Bruce Payne, Tom Sizemore
In this action-packed film, Wesley Snipes stars as an airline security expert who must take action when the plane he is on is hijacked by a ruthless terrorist. Using his skills and experience, Snipes' character must outsmart the hijackers and save the passengers on board. The film's tense atmosphere and Snipes' engaging performance make it an exciting entry in both the action and hostage genres.
More Passenger 57- #241 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #1 of 17 onFilm Fans Share The Movie Mistakes They Found In Their Favorite Thrillers And Chillers
- #47 of 98 onThe Best Movies of 1992
- Chuck Norris, Lee Marvin, Hanna SchygullaMore The Delta Force
- #38 of 82 onThe Best Movies About Being Outnumbered
- #50 of 92 onThe Best Classic '80s Action Movies, Ranked
- #42 of 42 onThe 40+ Best Aviation Movies
- Denzel Washington, John Travolta, John Turturro
Based on the bestselling novel, this tense thriller revolves around the hijacking of a New York City subway train by a group of gunmen led by a cunning ringleader, played by John Travolta. As the city is thrown into chaos, a determined transit dispatcher, portrayed by Denzel Washington, must engage in a high-stakes negotiation to save the passengers. The film's compelling performances and suspenseful storytelling make it a standout in the hostage thriller category.
- #174 of 191 onThe Best Movies For Men
- #18 of 48 onThe Best Train Movies
- #3 of 14 onMovie Reboots That Tried To Tell The Same Story With One MASSIVE Change
- Arnold Schwarzenegger, Rae Dawn Chong, Dan Hedaya
In this classic action film, Arnold Schwarzenegger stars as a retired special forces operative, who must put his skills to use when his daughter is kidnapped by a group of mercenaries. With only a limited amount of time to save her, he faces a relentless barrage of enemies and obstacles. Featuring impressive stunts and Schwarzenegger's iconic one-liners, this film remains a beloved entry in the action and kidnapping genres.
More Commando- Dig Deeper...Behind-The-Scenes Stories From The Making Of 'Commando'
- #12 of 96 onThe 90+ Best Movies Of 1985, Ranked
- #131 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- Al Pacino, John Cazale, Charles Durning
Based on a true story, this classic crime drama stars Al Pacino as a desperate man who attempts to rob a bank to pay for his lover's sex reassignment surgery but ends up taking the employees hostage when things go awry. The film explores themes of love, loyalty, and social justice, with Pacino delivering one of his most memorable performances. Widely regarded as a masterpiece, the film remains an essential watch for fans of hostage dramas and crime films alike.
More Dog Day Afternoon- #115 of 242 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- #7 of 28 onThe Best Oscar-Nominated Movies of the 1970s
- #6 of 32 onThe Best Movies That Take Place in Real Time
- Bruce Willis, Emile Hirsch, Justin Timberlake
Inspired by actual events, this crime drama chronicles the harrowing kidnapping of a teenager by a group of drug dealers led by a volatile ringleader, played by Emile Hirsch. As the situation spirals out of control, the captors struggle with their choices and face the consequences of their actions. The film's gritty realism and ensemble performances make it a powerful and compelling exploration of youth, violence, and morality.
More Alpha Dog- Dig Deeper...The Real-Life Murder That Inspired 'Alpha Dog'
- #29 of 54 onThe Best Movies 'Loosely' Based On True Stories
- #4 of 35 onThe Best Movies Based on Real Murders
- Chris Hemsworth, Patrick Newall, Rayna Campbell
This high-intensity action film stars Chris Hemsworth as a skilled mercenary who is hired to rescue the kidnapped son of an international crime lord. Set against the backdrop of the chaotic city of Dhaka, the film features a relentless pace and some of the most jaw-dropping action sequences in recent memory. Hemsworth's charismatic performance and the film's expert execution cement its status as a standout in the kidnap and rescue genre.
More Extraction- #45 of 111 on50+ Movies That Need Sequels
- #73 of 98 onThe Best Movies with Only One Word for a Title
- #2 of 14 onUnderrated Action Movies Based On Graphic Novels
- 36
Take Back
Michael Jai White, Gillian White, Mickey RourkeIn this high-octane action film, a woman, played by Gillian White, with a mysterious past must work to rescue her daughter from a group of human traffickers. As she fights her way through criminals and corrupt law enforcement, she discovers the truth about her own dark history. Featuring intense action sequences and a powerful female lead, this film delivers an adrenaline-fueled and emotionally charged experience.
More Take Back- #26 of 36 onThe 35 Best Kidnapping Thriller Movies
- #50 of 89 onThe 70+ Best New & Recent Action Movies, Ranked
- #116 of 121 onThe Best Black Action Movies
- Sandra Bullock, Regina King, Enrique Murciano
In this comedic sequel, Sandra Bullock reprises her role as FBI agent Gracie Hart, who must go undercover as a beauty queen once more when her friend and fellow pageant winner is kidnapped. As she navigates the world of glitz and glamour, Gracie works to save her friend and bring the kidnappers to justice. The film's lighthearted tone and Bullock's charming performance make it an enjoyable departure from the darker fare in the kidnapping and hostage genre.
- 38
All the Money in the World
Michelle Williams, Christopher Plummer, Mark WahlbergBased on the true story of the Getty kidnapping, this crime drama focuses on the abduction of John Paul Getty III and the desperate attempts by his mother, Gail, to secure his release from his wealthy but uncooperative grandfather, oil magnate J. Paul Getty. As the kidnappers grow increasingly violent, Gail forms an uneasy alliance with a former CIA operative to save her son. Directed by Ridley Scott and featuring a memorable performance by Christopher Plummer as J. Paul Getty, this film delves into the darker side of wealth and power.
- #45 of 57 onThe Best British Thriller Movies
- #16 of 30 onEvery Movie Directed By Ridley Scott, Ranked By Fans
- #35 of 94 onThe 90 Best Kidnapping Movies of All Time
- Jules Willcox, Marc Menchaca, Anthony HealdMore Alone
- #35 of 35 onThe Scariest Cabin Horror Movies
- #1 of 119 on100+ Movies And Shows With Alone In The Title
- #56 of 71 onThe Best Road-Horror Movies of All Time
- Bruce Willis, Kevin Dillon, LeonMore A Day to Die
- #52 of 97 onThe 90+ Best Drug Movies of All Time
- #54 of 75 on25+ Great Movies That Have A Ticking Clock
- #47 of 53 onThe Best Movies About Agents and Operatives
- Harrison Ford, Paul Bettany, Virginia Madsen
In this tense thriller, Harrison Ford stars as a cybersecurity expert who is forced to help a group of criminals led by Paul Bettany hack into his own bank's system after they take his family hostage. As he races against the clock to complete the task and save his loved ones, he must also outsmart the criminals and thwart their plans. The film's high-stakes premise and Ford's engaging performance make it an exciting entry in the hostage drama category.
More Firewall- #8 of 49 onThe 45+ Very Best Movies About Hackers
- #28 of 36 onThe 35 Best Kidnapping Thriller Movies
- #10 of 14 onThe Most Ridiculous Movie Hacking Scenes, Ranked By Silliness
- Tommy Lee Jones, Cate Blanchett, Evan Rachel Wood
In this western thriller, Cate Blanchett stars as a frontierwoman who enlists the help of her estranged father, played by Tommy Lee Jones, to track down her kidnapped daughter. As they journey through the harsh wilderness, they confront both physical and emotional obstacles in their desperate quest for justice. The film's atmospheric setting and powerful performances make it a unique and gripping entry in the kidnapping genre.
More The Missing- #122 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #25 of 48 onThe 45+ Best Modern Day Westerns
- #85 of 152 onThe Best Movies Of 2003, Ranked
- John Travolta, Devon Sawa, Ana Golja
This chilling thriller follows a delusional fan, Moose, played by John Travolta, who becomes dangerously obsessed with a popular action star, Hunter Dunbar. As his fixation intensifies, Moose resorts to stalking and kidnapping in an attempt to forge a personal connection with the actor. Travolta's unnerving performance and the film's examination of celebrity obsession make this a suspenseful and thought-provoking watch.
- Naomi Watts, Tim Roth, Michael Pitt
This unsettling psychological horror film, directed by Michael Haneke, centers on a vacationing family who are held hostage in their remote lakeside cabin by a pair of sadistic young men. As the captors subject their victims to a series of cruel and torturous "games," the film examines themes of violence and voyeurism. Featuring chilling performances and unflinching brutality, this film remains a provocative and controversial entry in the genre.
More Funny Games- #203 of 252 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #51 of 125 onThe 100+ Grossest Movies Ever
- #99 of 107 onThe Best Intelligent Horror Movies
- John Travolta, Dustin Hoffman, Mia Kirshner
This suspenseful drama follows a disgruntled museum security guard, played by John Travolta, who takes hostages in an act of desperation, drawing the attention of an opportunistic television reporter, portrayed by Dustin Hoffman. As the hostage situation unfolds, the film explores the role of the media in shaping public perception and making heroes and villains of ordinary people. Hoffman and Travolta's powerful performances contribute to this film's lasting impact.
- Kyle MacLachlan, Samuel L. Jackson, Harry Dean Stanton
This tense drama is based on the true story of the 1971 Attica prison riot, during which inmates took over the facility in protest of their inhumane treatment and held a number of prison employees hostage. The film offers an unflinching look at the events that transpired, exploring themes of injustice, resistance, and the human capacity for violence. Featuring powerful performances and a gripping narrative, this film is a compelling exploration of a notorious real-life hostage situation.
- 47
The Cokeville Miracle
Nathan Stevens, Jasen Wade, Caitlin E.J. MeyerBased on a true story, this inspirational drama recounts the events of a 1986 hostage crisis in a small Wyoming town, where a disturbed couple took an elementary school hostage using a bomb. The film delves into the emotional and spiritual experiences of the survivors and explores themes of faith, hope, and resilience. The film's heartfelt message and compelling performances make it a memorable entry in the hostage genre.
- Annette Bening, Aidan Quinn, Robert Downey
In this supernatural thriller, Annette Bening stars as a woman who begins experiencing psychic visions that connect her to a series of child kidnappings. As she tries to make sense of her tantalizing glimpses into the mind of the perpetrator, she becomes increasingly desperate to stop him before he claims another victim. The film's eerie atmosphere and haunting visuals make it a captivating and unnerving addition to the kidnapping genre.
More In Dreams- #27 of 35 onThe 35 Best Movies About Lucid Dreaming
- #51 of 86 onThe Best Amblin Entertainment Movies
- #91 of 138 onThe Best DreamWorks Movies Ever Made
- Eddie Murphy, Michael Rapaport, Michael Wincott
In this action-packed thriller, Eddie Murphy stars as a San Francisco hostage negotiator who becomes embroiled in a deadly cat-and-mouse game with a cunning jewel thief, played by Michael Wincott. As the stakes escalate, Murphy's character must use his expert skills to outwit the criminal mastermind and save the hostages. Featuring adrenaline-fueled action and Murphy's signature comedic flair, this film is an entertaining entry in the kidnapping and hostage genre.
- 50
Trapped
Charlize Theron, Courtney Love, Stuart TownsendMore Trapped- #19 of 36 onThe 35 Best Kidnapping Thriller Movies
- #25 of 35 onThe Best Thriller Movies with a Hostage
- #18 of 47 onThe 45+ Best Charlize Theron Movies
- Matt Dillon, Faye Dunaway, Gary Sinise
In this tense thriller, three small-time criminals find themselves trapped in a basement speakeasy after a failed robbery attempt, taking the patrons hostage as they try to negotiate a way out with the police. As tensions rise and loyalties are tested, the captives and captors alike must confront their own demons and reconcile with their past actions. The film's claustrophobic setting and strong performances make it a captivating exploration of human nature under duress.
- 52
6 Days
Jamie Bell, Abbie Cornish, Mark Strong - Yixing Zhang, Gina Chen Jin, Mei YongMore No More Bets
- #212 of 216 onThe 200 Best Crime Movies Ever
- #76 of 76 onThe 75+ Best Movies About Gambling
- #53 of 94 onThe 90 Best Kidnapping Movies of All Time
- Benedict Cumberbatch, Kelly Macdonald, Stephen Campbell MooreMore The Child in Time
- #332 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- #131 of 133 onThe Most Utterly Depressing Movies Ever Made
- #80 of 124 onThe Biggest Tearjerker Movies Of All Time
- Leighton Meester, Adam Brody, Taran KillamMore River Wild
- #241 of 252 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #106 of 112 onThe Greatest Movie Remakes Of All Time
- #76 of 78 onThe Greatest Movies To Watch Outside, Ranked
- Jennifer Aniston, John Hawkes, Yasiin Bey
Based on Elmore Leonard's novel The Switch, this dark comedy follows a pair of bumbling criminals who kidnap the wife of a wealthy man, only to discover that he has no interest in paying the ransom. As the plan unravels, the characters find themselves entangled in a web of deception, betrayal, and unexpected alliances. The film's witty dialogue, memorable performances, and twisted plot make it an entertaining entry in the kidnapping genre.
- Dean Cain, Andy Dick, Sean Patrick Flanery
In this offbeat comedy, a group of friends inadvertently becomes involved in a bank robbery and subsequent hostage situation while en route to a wedding. As they try to navigate their way out of the predicament, they discover hidden talents and personal revelations that challenge their perceptions of one another. The film's mix of humor, action, and heartfelt moments makes it an enjoyable addition to the hostage comedy genre.
- 58
Captive
Julija Peresild, Andrei Feskov, Vjačeslav KrikunovInspired by a true story, this emotionally charged drama stars Kate Mara as a struggling single mother who is taken hostage in her own home by an escaped convict, played by David Oyelowo. As the unlikely pair discover common ground and form a bond, they are forced to confront their own demons and seek redemption. The film's heartfelt performances and powerful message of hope make it a memorable addition to the hostage drama genre.
- Jella Haase, Clemens Schick, Max von der GroebenMore Kidnapping Stella
- #35 of 36 onThe 35 Best Kidnapping Thriller Movies
- #10 of 12 onPretty Solid Home Invasion Movies On Netflix Right Now
- #60 of 107 onThe 100+ Best Foreign Thrillers, Ranked
- Angus Cloud, Elliot Knight, Jessica GarzaMore Your Lucky Day
- #58 of 66 onThe Greatest Movies About Making Money
- #100 of 216 onThe 200 Best Crime Movies Ever
- #88 of 108 onThe 90+ Top R-Rated Thriller Movies