Stolen (2023)

Review Team

4/5

Stolen is a poignant film that captures the struggles of a tribal woman whose infant is abducted, thrusting her into a world of desperation. Directed by Karan Tejpal, the film intricately weaves the lives of Jhumpa Mahato and two brothers, Gautam and Raman, who witness the kidnapping. Their quest fo ... Show more >> Stolen is a poignant film that captures the struggles of a tribal woman whose infant is abducted, thrusting her into a world of desperation. Directed by Karan Tejpal, the film intricately weaves the lives of Jhumpa Mahato and two brothers, Gautam and Raman, who witness the kidnapping. Their quest for justice highlights the stark realities of poverty and the lengths to which individuals will go for their loved ones. The performances are compelling, with Jhumpa's portrayal of a mother’s anguish standing out. Tejpal’s direction is both empathetic and gripping, ensuring the audience remains engaged throughout. The cinematography beautifully contrasts the harshness of the surroundings with the tender emotions of the characters. Overall, Stolen is a thought-provoking watch, resonating long after the credits roll. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

Stolen attempts to tackle heavy themes of loss and survival, but it sometimes feels like it bites off more than it can chew. While the story of Jhumpa Mahato and her stolen baby certainly has its heart-wrenching moments, the pacing can be uneven, dragging in parts while rushing through pivotal scene ... Show more >> Stolen attempts to tackle heavy themes of loss and survival, but it sometimes feels like it bites off more than it can chew. While the story of Jhumpa Mahato and her stolen baby certainly has its heart-wrenching moments, the pacing can be uneven, dragging in parts while rushing through pivotal scenes. The two brothers, Gautam and Raman, bring a sense of urgency to the narrative, but their character arcs feel underdeveloped at times. Karan Tejpal's direction is commendable, but the film occasionally leans too heavily on melodrama. Despite its flaws, Stolen has a certain rawness that can be impactful, and it raises important questions about society’s responsibility towards its most vulnerable. It’s worth a watch for those interested in socially conscious cinema, but it may not resonate with everyone. Show less