53 Days: The Abduction of Mary Stauffer

Over the top tamed down version of events. Made for tv event, really.

These true stories SHOULD be treated as true stories and not some cleaned up version. It's a disservice.

In 1980, school teacher Mary Stauffer (Alyson Hannigan) and her eight-year old daughter Beth are kidnapped by her former student Ming Sen Shiue. They are held captive for 53 days. It's a straight forward Lifetime woman-in-trouble movie. Alyson is good. Most of the actors are fine. Everything is fine and nothing's great.

Lifetime took a terrifying, real story and turned it into a boring, glaringly fake movie.

The acting is absolutely attrocious. The little girl lacks any acting skills, I wonder who cast her in this movie, and why. As for the professional actors, especially the only name recognizable, Alyson Hannigan, they all should be ashamed of portraying of real life persons with such incompetence.

The soundtrack is cloying. The dialogue is inane. Eg., Question: "How long have you been watching me?". Answer: "Nobody will find you".

The scenario is illogical: the only time the abducted mother screams for help is several weeks after being locked in a closet when the kidnapper plays LOUD music!

Everything in this movie makes you aware how FAKE and idiotic it is.

Everyone involved in making this movie did an abysmal job.

Since this movie is based on a true story, it is difficult to be hyper critical. I will say Alyson Hannigan's portrayal of Mary Stauffer was layered and well acted. Nice to see her step out of her comfort zone!

Abducted: The Mary Stauffer Story is a heart-wrenching film based on a real-life ordeal that unfolded in the quiet suburb of Roseville, Minnesota. The film delves into the terrifying experience of Mary Stauffer, who was abducted from her own home, leaving her family and community in shock and despair.

While the film effectively captures the tension and fear surrounding the abduction, it also shines a light on the unwavering hope and resilience of the victim and her loved ones. The performances are commendable, particularly those of the actors portraying Mary and her family. Their raw emotions and genuine portrayals draw the audience into the harrowing narrative.

However, the film's pacing occasionally falters, and some scenes may feel drawn out. Additionally, the abrupt transitions between timelines can be confusing at times. Despite these minor shortcomings, Abducted: The Mary Stauffer Story is a poignant reminder of the importance of community support and the enduring power of human spirit in the face of adversity.