10 Must-Watch Biopics About Kidnappers

Description: This film dramatizes the infamous psychological experiment where college students played prisoners and guards, leading to unexpected and disturbing results, including elements of psychological kidnapping.

Fact: The film was shot in the actual basement where the experiment took place, adding to its authenticity.

Description: This biopic focuses on the chilling story of Dennis Rader, the BTK (Bind, Torture, Kill) Killer, who terrorized Wichita, Kansas, for over 30 years. It's a deep dive into the mind of a serial killer who also engaged in kidnapping.

Fact: The film was released just a year after Rader's arrest, providing a timely and detailed account of his crimes.

Description: Based on the novel by Jack Ketchum, this film tells the horrific true story of Sylvia Likens, a teenage girl who was tortured and killed by her caretaker and neighborhood children in the 1960s. It's a stark reminder of the capacity for cruelty in seemingly normal people.

Fact: The film was initially banned in the UK due to its graphic content but was later released with an 18 rating.

Description: While not strictly a biopic, this film adaptation of Stieg Larsson's novel involves a kidnapping mystery at its core. It's included for its exploration of dark themes and the psychological depth of its characters.

Fact: The film's opening credits were designed by Tim Miller, who later directed Deadpool.

Description: A documentary that follows the story of Frédéric Bourdin, a French serial impostor who posed as a missing Texas teenager, effectively "kidnapping" the identity of another person. It's a fascinating look at deception and identity theft.

Fact: The film won the Grand Jury Prize for World Cinema - Documentary at the Sundance Film Festival.

Description: This thriller involves a serial killer who kidnaps and photographs his victims, sending the photos to a small-town newspaper. It's a chilling exploration of voyeurism and the media's role in crime.

Fact: The film was directed by Nick Simon, who also worked on the horror anthology "Tales of Halloween."

Description: Based on the true story of Amanda Berry, Gina DeJesus, and Michelle Knight, this film explores their harrowing experience of being kidnapped and held captive by Ariel Castro for over a decade. It's a chilling look at survival and resilience.

Fact: The film was shot in the actual neighborhood where the kidnappings took place, adding an eerie authenticity to the setting.

Description: This film tells the story of British explorer Percy Fawcett, who disappeared in the Amazon while searching for a lost city. While not a traditional kidnapping, it involves themes of obsession and the unknown, akin to being taken by the jungle itself.

Fact: The film was shot on location in Colombia, providing a realistic backdrop to Fawcett's journey.

Description: This film recounts the true story of Edgardo Mortara, a Jewish boy kidnapped by the Papal States in 1858 to be raised as a Catholic. It's a tale of religious conflict, family struggle, and the fight for justice, making it a unique entry in our list of kidnapper biopics.

Fact: The film was directed by Marco Bellocchio, who has a history of exploring controversial historical events in his work. It was also Italy's submission for the Best International Feature Film at the 96th Academy Awards.

Description: While not a traditional kidnapping story, this film involves a chance encounter at the G8 summit where a man's life is changed by a mysterious woman, leading to a narrative involving international politics and personal sacrifice.

Fact: The film was written by Richard Curtis, known for his romantic comedies, showcasing his ability to tackle more serious themes.