Amazon Prime Video’s latest release ‘Stolen’, directed by Karan Tejpal and supported by Kiran Rao, Vikramaditya Motwane, and Anurag Kashyap, is a masterclass in subtle storytelling. While it’s structured like a thriller, the film doesn’t scream for attention—it quietly pulls you into its layered narrative of grief, social injustice, and hope.
Plot: Two Brothers, One Mission, and a Missing Child
Set against the backdrop of a sleepy railway station, Stolen opens with Gautam (Abhishek Banerjee) waiting for his younger brother Raman (Shubham Vardhan). The reunion takes an unexpected turn when Raman encounters a distressed woman, Jhumpa (Mia Maelzer), whose infant daughter, Champa, has been abducted while she slept.
As the brothers get entangled in the mystery of the missing child, the film takes viewers on a slow-burning journey that reflects not just a crime, but the silent screams of the powerless in society. The narrative avoids theatrics and instead focuses on emotional realism.
Performance: Mia Maelzer Steals the Show
While Abhishek Banerjee shines as the conflicted Gautam, it is Mia Maelzer’s portrayal of Jhumpa that becomes the soul of the film. Her expressive eyes carry the weight of a grieving mother determined to defy a flawed system.
Her chemistry with Banerjee, especially as he transitions from a detached bystander to a committed ally, is the emotional backbone of Stolen.
Themes: Power, Poverty & Hope
The film doesn’t just speak of a kidnapping—it challenges class disparity, bureaucratic incompetence, and the systemic negligence that plagues the poor. Surrogacy misuse and the cold indifference of the police are tackled subtly, without turning preachy.
Despite its gritty tone, Stolen reminds us that human kindness can prevail even in the darkest moments.
Why You Should Watch ‘Stolen’
This isn’t a high-octane, edge-of-the-seat thriller—but that’s what makes it unique. It is restrained yet gripping, and stays with you long after the credits roll. From the brilliant performances to the socially relevant narrative, Stolen earns every minute of your attention.
Final Verdict:
A powerful, character-driven thriller that deserves your time. Stolen proves that storytelling doesn’t need to be loud to leave a lasting impact.
