Ransom! (1956)

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Siskoid
Glenn Ford is as always perfectly cast as the dad trying his best in Ransom!, a movie that unfolds like a procedural about a kidnapping and how the family, police, media and community react to it, and that could be a single-set play. It doesn't just show and explain what would happen, but discusses the ramifications of giving in and paying a ransom, and those of not doing so. Ford's solution is unusual but clever, and while he's always good in the film, his broadcast message to the kidnapper is a real stand-out. I've recently discovered Ford really elevates what could be so-so movies for me. He's well supported, mind you. Leslie Nielsen is the knowledgeable reporter embedded in the home. Juano Hernandez is a strong presence as Ford's butler. And Donna Reed gives a high-strung performance as the mother, though the stupid 1950s trope of giving women tranquilizers cut they can't take the pressure rears its ugly heads and robs us of her for most of the film. Boo. Juanita Moore also putters around in the background, wasted. They make it Ford's story, and on that count, it delivers. 4 years 9 months ago
scdawson
And, of course, the overlooked source on which Mel Gibson's remake was based. 11 years 1 month ago
ClassicLady
Wonderful tearjerker with fabulous perfoances by Glenn Ford and Donna Reed. Gut-wentching for anyone who has ever lost a child. 11 years 12 months ago