KIDNAPPING STELLA

KIDNAPPING STELLA: D+

First off major violation for false advertising. Based on the film's synopsis one should go in expecting to fall in love with a smart, clever and resilient heroine. Stella was nothing of the sort. She was a pathetic, idiotic moron who on more than one occasion was lucky she wasn't shot dead on the spot. Her choices were not that of someone within any capability to outsmart anyone. Her only saving grace was that Tom was dumber than she was. He was a complete idiot. Perhaps even on the edge of mental retardation. His choices were that of a character in Looney Tunes. Bugs Bunny would have had a heyday with this dunce.

With that said keep in mind that writing is 100% to blame here. Jella Haase & especially Max von der Groeben gave solid performances. They shouldn't be blamed for lazy storytelling on behalf of the writing.

The directing however, did its best to try and salvage, despite such a week script. The film was visually appealing and did a great job of telling a story (even though the story was shit) through visualizations. It was clear to tell from the beginning even without dialog that Vic was a collected, sure of himself, focused psychopath and that Tom was in doubt, unsure of himself, unsure of the situation, empath.

I appreciate the contrast between a very intelligent, yet sadistic Vic and a very stupid, yet conflicted Tom. How in the end you're left questioning whether Vic feels more betrayed by Tom or by himself for ever trusting Tom. It's just a shame that the writing couldn't compliment the directing or the performance.

Clemens Schick was very good. Timing, delivery, response, all down very patented. It was quite impressive.

Actors and directors alike hopefully wonder what to do in a situation if a studio ever hands them a shitty script and says, "make a film out of this."

KIDNAPPING STELLA would be required viewing of any professor wanting to answer that question.