Stolen - Review (2023)

Detailed Review of Stolen (2025) – ★★★½ (3.5/5)

Stolen, directed by Karan Tejpal, is a searing, emotionally charged drama-thriller that explores the trauma of child abduction, surrogacy, and societal negligence in a deeply personal and politically relevant manner. Set against the stark landscape of rural India, this Amazon Prime original delivers a story that is both raw and disturbingly real.

From the very first frame, the film grips you with its intensity. There’s no over-the-top background score, no flashy heroism—just an unsettling stillness that slowly builds into an emotionally suffocating atmosphere. The story centers around a man entangled in a horrifying incident involving a stolen baby, a helpless mother, and a system that seems indifferent.

The performances, especially from the lead, are quietly powerful. There’s pain in his eyes, fear in his silence, and a desperation that hits home. The supporting cast, including the woman who plays the surrogate mother, adds further depth with a performance full of quiet devastation. Every look, every tear, every word unspoken carries weight.

However, the film is not without its flaws. The middle act lags slightly, and certain plot points feel underexplored. A few emotional transitions could’ve been tighter, and some viewers might crave a more dramatic payoff. Yet, Stolen refuses to sensationalize—it remains loyal to its quiet pain, which might be its most haunting achievement.

Verdict:
Stolen is a powerful, raw, and unflinchingly real film. It’s not an easy watch—but it’s a necessary one. With intense performances, a gripping plot, and socially relevant themes, it earns its place as a standout in India’s growing landscape of serious, thought-provoking cinema.