This dramatic thriller is based on one of the most notorious kidnapping cases in history, but is it worth a ticket to watch on the big screen?
Kidnapping Freddy Heineken transports you back to 1983, to the abduction of Dutch billionaire brewery magnate Freddy Heineken and his chauffeur.
Daniel Alfredson, who also directed The Girl Who Kicked the Hornets’ Nest, depicts his take on the kidnapping case that took place back then.
Perfect Plan, But Perfect Plot?
Kidnapping Freddy Heineken sounds like it’s geared up to be one crazy action movie but on the surface it looks a little ordinary or to be expected. But perhaps it’s not.
Being the second movie adaptation of the story, the film’s writer, William Brookfield, made sure to create the film as accurately as possible when he adapted Peter R de Vries’ extensive 1987 book, The Kidnapping of Freddy Heineken.
The film is set in Amsterdam, where the kidnapping took place. Being in financial straits after their construction business encounters certain obstacles, the group of old friends finds itself coming up with an audacious plan as a solution to their monetary woes, which went surprisingly well.
In finding success, they then moved on and ‘upgraded’ to the kidnapping of Freddy Heineken. This ‘upgrade’ means a larger profit and, of course, a higher degree of risk comes with it.
Throughout the whole abduction process, experience the emotional rollercoaster and uncertainty the group faces. And get ready to escape Amsterdam with them as they attempt to run away with the ransom of 35 million guilders (US$50million).
The Faces Behind the Masks
All can agree that the actors portraying the characters are crucial in invoking the emotions of the audience. And what a cast put together by the producers!
Anthony Hopkins, Oscar winner, was speedily snapped up and cast to play the victim, Freddy Heineken. Known for his outstanding performances in films such as Fracture, The Silence of the Lambs, Hannibal and many more, we can be sure to expect a certain depth of character and a convincing portrayal.
The rest of the main cast include heartthrobs Jim Sturgess, Sam Worthington and Ryan Kwanten. Known for their stunning performances in Across the Universe, Avatar and “True Blood” respectively, expect these young studs to draw you into the plot.
Worth It Or Not
Combine a multi-faceted plot and a bunch of incredibly-talented actors, it will either blow your mind, or be hugely-disappointing.
If you’re a risk taker, do catch the movie. But if a blockbuster is the only kind of movie that satisfies you, Kidnapping Freddy Heineken might not be your cup of tea.
By Rydell Tan
KIDNAPPING FREDDY HEINEKEN [NC 16]
Director: Daniel Alfredson
Starring: Anthony Hopkins, Jim Sturgess, Sam Worthington, Ryan Kwanten, & Jemima West
Genre: Action, Crime, Drama
Run length: 95 min
Release: Mar 19
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