Italian cult horror director Mario Bava filmed this movie in 1974 as Rabid Dogs, although it remained unreleased and in the vaults for some 25 years. Now, years after Bava’s death, it has been reclaimed and assembled by producer Alfredo Leone for theatrical release with the new title Kidnapped, and features several new scenes directed by Bava’s son Lamberto, and additional music by Stelvio Cipriani. A grisly psychological thriller told in real time, Kidnapped follows a group of ruthless bank robbers who carjack a vehicle with a man, a woman, and a seriously ill child. Most of the movie takes place in the car as they drive around Rome eluding the police. This restored movie also promises a twist ending.
This article appears in July 12 • 2002.
