Stolen movie review: Abhishek Banerjee’s thriller is narrow, and not as impactful as it wants to be
Thrillers promise adrenaline, suspense, and moments that keep audiences glued until the very end. Stolen, starring Abhishek Banerjee, attempts to offer such an experience but doesn’t quite deliver the impact it aims for. While Banerjee’s performance stands out, the film is limited by a narrow storyline and uneven pacing.
Plot and Premise: A Story with Untapped Potential
At its core, Stolen presents a tense situation involving crime, moral choices, and personal risk. The film follows a protagonist caught in a dangerous predicament, forced to make tough decisions under pressure. This setup could have made for a gripping thriller.
Unfortunately, the story fails to expand beyond its basic framework. Instead of exploring characters in depth or adding complexity to the plot, the film sticks to familiar and predictable tropes. This choice limits the suspense and leaves the narrative feeling straightforward and somewhat flat.
Abhishek Banerjee: The Movie’s Strongest Element
Abhishek Banerjee delivers a powerful performance that forms the backbone of Stolen. Known for his intense and nuanced roles, he brings authenticity and urgency to his character. His portrayal captures the fear, anger, and desperation the story demands.
Scenes where Banerjee’s emotions run high are the film’s most engaging moments. His dedication helps hold the audience’s attention, even when the script falters.
Direction and Screenplay: Too Restrictive
The director chooses a minimalist style, which can be effective in thrillers. However, this approach ends up restricting the film’s potential. The story feels boxed in, missing chances to add layers or unexpected twists.
Pacing is another issue. Some scenes drag on with repetitive dialogue, while important moments pass by too quickly. This uneven flow disrupts the building tension and weakens emotional impact.
Most supporting characters feel underdeveloped, reducing the stakes. They serve mainly as plot devices, which makes it harder for viewers to connect with the story on a deeper level.
Technical Aspects: Creating the Right Mood
Technically, Stolen succeeds in setting an appropriate mood. Cinematography uses tight framing and muted tones to evoke claustrophobia and tension. Shadows and dim lighting add to the uneasy atmosphere.
The sound design and score support suspenseful moments, though at times they feel a bit heavy-handed. Still, these elements help maintain a thriller vibe throughout the film.
What Worked and What Didn’t
Strengths:
- Abhishek Banerjee’s intense and convincing performance
- Effective use of cinematography and sound to build atmosphere
- A focused storyline without unnecessary subplots
Weaknesses:
- Predictable and simple plot with few surprises
- Uneven pacing that disrupts tension
- Weak character development beyond the lead role
Final Verdict: A Thriller That Falls Short
In summary, Stolen is an earnest but limited thriller. Banerjee’s performance is its biggest asset, adding depth and emotion. However, the story’s narrow scope and pacing issues prevent the film from leaving a strong impression.
For viewers who appreciate Banerjee’s acting, the film offers some rewarding moments. Those seeking a complex, edge-of-the-seat thriller might find Stolen lacking. It’s a safe film that plays it cautious, resulting in an engaging but ultimately forgettable experience.
