Dean Cain and Kristy Swanson are big names from my childhood age of nineties movies and TV. This is the first time I can recall seeing either in a movie for many years but they both do a solid job in what is a low budget TV/streaming level movie about the sex trafficking industry. There are a few moments in the film that feel like a stretch for example my understanding is most girls come from abroad or from poor broken homes so they are less likely to be missed rather than from a rich rural family as happens here. Overall it's a watchable movie but nothing outstanding.
34 Reviews
Bad acting, that's all
switty-2235031 January 2021
I think the overall message was well intentioned just not delivered well due to the bad acting, it left a lot to be desired. The movie is trying to shed light on a problem faced in society and advising parents to be aware of the actions of their kids, even "good" ones. The actors were obviously not A-List so what can you expect. It was slow and boring at times, not a movie i would pay to see. I gave it 3 stars for the message.
It's a catfish
nogodnomasters13 February 2021
Warning: Spoilers
This is another teen abduction forced to work as a prostitute film awareness film. It takes place in the Detroit area. Unlike other movies, dad was not a former special ops sniper, so he hires a private firm. The production felt like a Lifetime film. I liked the private investigators, but you can keep the rest.
Guide: No swearing, or nudity. Implied sex.
Guide: No swearing, or nudity. Implied sex.
Probably the worst movie I´ve seen in my life
alexa-straub28 January 2021
Well, where shall I begin?! Besides incredible bad acting, script, camera work, and audio work this movie uses every cliché and racial stereotype one can think of. Save your time and watch "Trafficked with Mariana van Zeller" instead and you will actually get an inside of how human trafficking really works.
Laughable
dreamfactory-534-81430927 January 2021
Inane and amateurish in utmost, this bizarre and laughable tale seems to have been written by a young child trying to imagine what evil sex traffickers are like. Apparently the makers of this "film" are involved in extreme right-wing politics. To be honest I'm not american and have no idea who or what they are, but this movie is complete and utter trash.
Hollow
kingofcosmos22 May 2021
Don't watch it.
This movie could be condensed into 20 minutes. It has no idea whether it is trying to say "sex trafficking is bad" or "revenge is awesome." It's just a bore when it's not aggravating, a near complete waste of time.
This movie could be condensed into 20 minutes. It has no idea whether it is trying to say "sex trafficking is bad" or "revenge is awesome." It's just a bore when it's not aggravating, a near complete waste of time.
Superman has fallen
larsvontriertwo28 January 2021
Hard to make a film on this topic boring, but somehow they managed
zwolf20 December 2021
Yeesh. This is one of the kind of movies you pick up at The Dollar Tree on a set with 14 others... and STILL want your money back. I don't know why people keep putting money into projects and then not hiring even basic talent to cover it... it's a waste. When the closest you have to a "name" star is Kristy Swanson, and she gets out-acted by people who've never been in anything else, it's just sad. She's never been good, but now she seems to be having some kind of personal problem and is even worse. Anyway, your time is more valuable than this. The topic is important, but this shabby trash does nothing but try to exploit it for a few sleazy bucks. It feels like it wants to be a Lifetime movie, but couldn't make the cut.
Politics aside
djohnson2052-183-48302926 January 2021
Anyone that rates this movie based solely on the politics of the actors is without a doubt a moron. When a young woman or child is abducted for the purposes of sex trafficking they don't care if you're a liberal or conservative this topic goes way beyond petty stupid politics.
The movie was good not great, and the acting was good not great. For the budget they had to work with it was done well.
The movie was good not great, and the acting was good not great. For the budget they had to work with it was done well.
Script and acting disappointing
corriefan-6432630 June 2021
After staying passive all this time...
moveESSSSS7 February 2021
Well excuse all the negative comments above but for a person who watches movies and I mean all those crazy useless movies with all the bad acting, hype, budgets.... this ain't one of them. This is as real as it gets with all possibilities taken into. This would be my first review as I usually prefer to stay passive but this movie deserves more credit than it currently does. I am a former police officer and all the details in this movie were as good and realistic as it can be. Side characters acting were bad but well - what do u expect from them. Other than that this movie deserves more credit for its cohesiveness and superb main cast acting!
Very slow
gweesha7 November 2021
What do politics have to do with the review of a movie? Some of these comments are so ridiculous. Get a life. Now, about the movie, some of the acting is really weak. It is a very important subject matter though, and the story needs to be told. Parents need to be more aware of who their kids are talking to on the Internet. Dean Cain makes this movie because it is boring at times. But the end was worth it.
A rather bland and mundane sex trafficking drama...
paul_haakonsen14 April 2021
Yeah, this 2021 movie titled "Trafficked: A Parent's Worst Nightmare" (aka "A Parent's Worst Nightmare") is a movie that, oddly enough, is based on sex trafficking, which in itself is a terrible topic.
And indeed, there have been movies out there that deal with the same issue, but doing so in a much more fulfilling way, in terms of it being a movie that brings entertainment - despite revolving around such atrocious things as sex trafficking. But "A Parent's Worst Nightmare" just didn't have the same impact as some movies of a similar nature.
Sure, "A Parent's Worst Nightmare" was watchable, but it wasn't an overly entertaining movie. And the reason for this was partially because of some inferior writing from writers Joel Paul Reisig, George P. Saunders and Scott Voshel. Which is some accomplishment in itself. I mean, three writers not being able to come up with something more worthwhile. But it is also due to some rigid characters and dubious acting performances.
The characters portrayed in "A Parent's Worst Nightmare" felt like wooden caricatures that hardly displayed any real or believable emotions or acted as one would think people would act when a family member is abducted and lost for over a month. It just took away so much believability from the movie as a whole.
All in all, then director Joel Paul Reisig just didn't bring contents to the screen where it mattered and "A Parent's Worst Nightmare" felt like a rather mundane and unnecessary movie, to be honest. This is not a movie that left a lasting impression with me, and I sat through it to the very end. Nor is it a movie that I will be thinking about, if someone mentions movies about sex trafficking. It just simply fell short of being outstanding or entertaining.
This 2021 movie is hardly one that I would recommend you wasting your time, money or effort on. My rating of "A Parent's Worst Nightmare" settles on a three out of ten stars.
And indeed, there have been movies out there that deal with the same issue, but doing so in a much more fulfilling way, in terms of it being a movie that brings entertainment - despite revolving around such atrocious things as sex trafficking. But "A Parent's Worst Nightmare" just didn't have the same impact as some movies of a similar nature.
Sure, "A Parent's Worst Nightmare" was watchable, but it wasn't an overly entertaining movie. And the reason for this was partially because of some inferior writing from writers Joel Paul Reisig, George P. Saunders and Scott Voshel. Which is some accomplishment in itself. I mean, three writers not being able to come up with something more worthwhile. But it is also due to some rigid characters and dubious acting performances.
The characters portrayed in "A Parent's Worst Nightmare" felt like wooden caricatures that hardly displayed any real or believable emotions or acted as one would think people would act when a family member is abducted and lost for over a month. It just took away so much believability from the movie as a whole.
All in all, then director Joel Paul Reisig just didn't bring contents to the screen where it mattered and "A Parent's Worst Nightmare" felt like a rather mundane and unnecessary movie, to be honest. This is not a movie that left a lasting impression with me, and I sat through it to the very end. Nor is it a movie that I will be thinking about, if someone mentions movies about sex trafficking. It just simply fell short of being outstanding or entertaining.
This 2021 movie is hardly one that I would recommend you wasting your time, money or effort on. My rating of "A Parent's Worst Nightmare" settles on a three out of ten stars.
Acting
valesandoval21 December 2021
More movies on this topic are needed. People need to get educated on this. Now, about the movie.. Unfortunately, it does depict the reality of human trafficking, so that's a plus I guess. But the acting. Wow. It was the worse part of all this.
Negative Reviews Based on Political Views, Not the Movie
rebeltaz-1870528 March 2021
No, the movie is not the latest and greatest. But it's not the worst, either. The fact that both Kristy Swanson and Dean Cain are {gasp!} outspoken Conservatives are undoubtedly what is driving most of the negative reviews. Reading them, you can tell that the writers didn't even watch the movie.
The audio could have used a little work. The vocals were at times overridden by the music and effects. Some of the lines were cringeworthy, but I find most of the hollywood drivel cringeworthy anyway, so take that with a grain of salt.
What I took issue with was the 20k a week fee. These guys were supposed to be the good guy, but they are, in my opinion, taking advantage of people. But, then again... it's fiction, so... there's thath.
If you want hollywood special effects, look elsewhere. If you want liberal leftist propaganda, look elsewhere. If you want a wholesome (as much as it can be based on the subject matter) that you can (and probably should) watch with your children, then this is the movie you've been looking for.
The audio could have used a little work. The vocals were at times overridden by the music and effects. Some of the lines were cringeworthy, but I find most of the hollywood drivel cringeworthy anyway, so take that with a grain of salt.
What I took issue with was the 20k a week fee. These guys were supposed to be the good guy, but they are, in my opinion, taking advantage of people. But, then again... it's fiction, so... there's thath.
If you want hollywood special effects, look elsewhere. If you want liberal leftist propaganda, look elsewhere. If you want a wholesome (as much as it can be based on the subject matter) that you can (and probably should) watch with your children, then this is the movie you've been looking for.
B+ Drama witha an A+ Denouement
ex76177 February 2021
I read many reviews here before actually watching the movie, and do not understand what all the fuss is about. I wish I could have read "deb"s review but it must have been deleted long ago.
If I had a teenage daughter or son I would not hesitate to somehow aquaint them with this subject matter, and this film seems like it would be a good start
If I had a teenage daughter or son I would not hesitate to somehow aquaint them with this subject matter, and this film seems like it would be a good start
Gave it a shot
lippysmackyjackey8 February 2021
Warning: Spoilers
I know exactly how much work, time, money, and effort goes into making a film. Being an experienced filmmaker myself, I'm sad to say that when it comes to new filmmakers you can't always please everyone, but honest reviews and criticism should be read. It has helped me make my films better, it's how we learn what works and what we can do better next time.
As for the story, the dialogue and writing was very mediocre. I was not convinced at all that the parents even cared about their daughter. I didn't feel any emotion, there were no tears, just frustration and the "need to search" I feel like they didn't take it seriously. I felt all the actors could've brought out their characters more instead of just simply trying to "memorize" their lines.
Remember, the audience has to connect instantly with the characters and care about these characters in their situations. The audience needs to relate with what is being told in the story. They put themselves in the same situations with what the character is going through, what they are thinking, what they are doing, and how are they going to get out of these problems.
The cinematography was alright, some shots were okay but were not consistent. Some areas could've been lighted more. I don't know how you were able to convince Dean Cain to be in this, but hopefully he was able to help spark some interest in this film. This film was good, my first feature film was tricky to master, but I learned to take constructive criticism on what I needed to do better.
The ending didn't have a resolution, except that the girl was finally back with her family, which was good, but the spotter was never caught or reprehended. Best of luck to your next film!
As for the story, the dialogue and writing was very mediocre. I was not convinced at all that the parents even cared about their daughter. I didn't feel any emotion, there were no tears, just frustration and the "need to search" I feel like they didn't take it seriously. I felt all the actors could've brought out their characters more instead of just simply trying to "memorize" their lines.
Remember, the audience has to connect instantly with the characters and care about these characters in their situations. The audience needs to relate with what is being told in the story. They put themselves in the same situations with what the character is going through, what they are thinking, what they are doing, and how are they going to get out of these problems.
The cinematography was alright, some shots were okay but were not consistent. Some areas could've been lighted more. I don't know how you were able to convince Dean Cain to be in this, but hopefully he was able to help spark some interest in this film. This film was good, my first feature film was tricky to master, but I learned to take constructive criticism on what I needed to do better.
The ending didn't have a resolution, except that the girl was finally back with her family, which was good, but the spotter was never caught or reprehended. Best of luck to your next film!
It's Not Enough
ruadhcaileag28 October 2023
The ratings are legit. The acting is at best average, with a few that were just awful... that being said, this story, this horrible horrible story happens IN YOUR TOWN AND CITY. It happens worldwide. In 2023 there are more than 22 million child being trafficked across the world, and the US is where the worst of it, where many of these children end up.
The internet makes it much easier for this to happen. Children are lured through online gaming and social media. Teens meet a "boyfriend" online who convinces them to meet, and the teen is taken to another city, province, country or the trafficking happens down the road, and they are told if they don't keep doing it or tell someone, their parents, siblings or someone they love will be hurt or killed.
Educate your children, make sure you stay involved with their online use, make it a regular thing. It's the easiest way to protect your kids.
Also recommend watching The Sound of Freedom.
The internet makes it much easier for this to happen. Children are lured through online gaming and social media. Teens meet a "boyfriend" online who convinces them to meet, and the teen is taken to another city, province, country or the trafficking happens down the road, and they are told if they don't keep doing it or tell someone, their parents, siblings or someone they love will be hurt or killed.
Educate your children, make sure you stay involved with their online use, make it a regular thing. It's the easiest way to protect your kids.
Also recommend watching The Sound of Freedom.
Honest review
chicagoray-322163 February 2021
Twitter is alive with people promising to destroy this movie simply because two of the actors, Dean Cain and Kristy Swanson are conservatives. While I am a liberal I will not let that skew my review of this move. I do not believe in the cancelling of others simply for their beliefs, I will we could all fee this way.
Is this movie the best? No but it will keep you watching. It is about a young girl abducted and forced into sex slavery. Sadly this is many of the young prostitutes out there so the story needs to be told.
The parents are not getting anywhere with help from the police so they enlist Dean Cain's character to help.
It gives a heart wrenching portrayal of what happens to many girls and hopefully makes a person give pause when thinking about enlisting the services of a prostitutes. What it and check your political beliefs at the door and you will like the film.
Not the Best, but Still Worth a Watch
tiffanytallent198130 October 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Ok I am always skeptical of really low reviews, but this time I agree to an extent. The acting from 90% of the cast was subpar, except for a couple of the private investigators. And the most frustrating part was Kristy Swanson's character. I understand she's a worried mom, but man she's annoying. And several times during the movie, the mom & dad were so mean to the lead investigator. Not just anger because he couldn't find the girl. But they kept judging & insulting him about his last mistakes. (Alcoholic & dishonorable discharge). He didn't deserve that.
I And the most heartbreaking scenes were when the family decided to stop paying the investigators. After a month, they gave up. The mom & grandma almost talked the dad into it. 20k a week adds up & they couldn't afford it anymore. The dad went to stay at a hotel & rehired them, using the kids college funds.
I read that one reviewer felt like it wasn't exploitative enough. I like how the movie didn't show any nudity or actual sex scenes. There were girls at parties in underwear. And then in hotel rooms, where all we see are men going in & coming out. I didn't need to see 50+ men with these girls. The revolving door of them going into the same room was enough!
I hope the girl appreciated that the dad never gave up. I'm sure she eventually did. But at the end she was probably still in major shock, almost catatonic. I like the realism that everything wasn't picture perfect at the end. I'm sure it'd take years to overcome what she endured. At least she still has a chance at a life and family to help get through.
I And the most heartbreaking scenes were when the family decided to stop paying the investigators. After a month, they gave up. The mom & grandma almost talked the dad into it. 20k a week adds up & they couldn't afford it anymore. The dad went to stay at a hotel & rehired them, using the kids college funds.
I read that one reviewer felt like it wasn't exploitative enough. I like how the movie didn't show any nudity or actual sex scenes. There were girls at parties in underwear. And then in hotel rooms, where all we see are men going in & coming out. I didn't need to see 50+ men with these girls. The revolving door of them going into the same room was enough!
I hope the girl appreciated that the dad never gave up. I'm sure she eventually did. But at the end she was probably still in major shock, almost catatonic. I like the realism that everything wasn't picture perfect at the end. I'm sure it'd take years to overcome what she endured. At least she still has a chance at a life and family to help get through.
Amazing supporting cast
chrisdunn-9913227 January 2021
Good to Start Conversations
crazi-swans31 January 2021
Terrifying, heartbreaking, yet full of hope. Trafficked is a new movie that draws attention to the human trafficking epidemic in America and around the world. The movie is riveting, yet hard to watch. While some reviews have slammed this movie be being unrealistic, and that might be true as many families do not have the resources of a highly skilled team searching for their lost loved one, I think that it does a good job of showing how it could happen to anyone, but also gives hope in that there are people out there trying to help.
I have a couple of friends with daughters this age, who have told me of very scary situations at the mall or even at their high schools, where young men have tried to manipulate their daughters into going with them into sketchy situations. So while to some this all might sound far-fetched, I think it is a good reminder to be aware and have these conversations with your children.
An engaging movie that I think does a great job of starting the conversation, I can't honestly say that I "enjoyed" watching this movie, as it goes into some very dark things, doing a great job of letting you know what happens while not showing anything too explicit. But I think that it is worth a watch with older teens. Be aware that there are scenes of a suggestive nature, thematic elements, mild language, scenes with scantily clad women, drug use, and gun violence. I enjoyed the strong themes of faith, family, and hope, and I think that this is a movie that can start those conversations about being careful online and about the very real, horrible things going on in this world.
Many thanks to Collide Distribution for providing this product/product information for review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.
I have a couple of friends with daughters this age, who have told me of very scary situations at the mall or even at their high schools, where young men have tried to manipulate their daughters into going with them into sketchy situations. So while to some this all might sound far-fetched, I think it is a good reminder to be aware and have these conversations with your children.
An engaging movie that I think does a great job of starting the conversation, I can't honestly say that I "enjoyed" watching this movie, as it goes into some very dark things, doing a great job of letting you know what happens while not showing anything too explicit. But I think that it is worth a watch with older teens. Be aware that there are scenes of a suggestive nature, thematic elements, mild language, scenes with scantily clad women, drug use, and gun violence. I enjoyed the strong themes of faith, family, and hope, and I think that this is a movie that can start those conversations about being careful online and about the very real, horrible things going on in this world.
Many thanks to Collide Distribution for providing this product/product information for review. Opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.
Bad reviews are likely politically motivated
pdg-556257 January 2023
I'm not American but I can tell from other reviews that their "1 star" reviews are politically motived and due to the ethnicity of the characters, which is beyond ridiculous. Good and bad comes in all creeds and shades. The idea that films should not have certain groups play protagonists simply because of their skin colour is so regressive and nonsensical.
Some of the acting is very good, but some is bad. Some familiar faces from 90s films. Don't usually see a film that has both good and not-so-good actors in the cast. Maybe it was a budge thing. Some cliche moments, but overall the story ran well, developed at a nice pace.
Some of the acting is very good, but some is bad. Some familiar faces from 90s films. Don't usually see a film that has both good and not-so-good actors in the cast. Maybe it was a budge thing. Some cliche moments, but overall the story ran well, developed at a nice pace.
Not worth your time
swallowpenny3 February 2024
Warning: Spoilers
For a topic that is so serious this film just made a mockery of it. This could have been a really good movie to show the pitfalls of trusting unknown people on the internet.
I really expected something gritty and interesting. However the acting let it down, unconvincing, flimsy, just zero depth. The actor playing the father puts on a raspy voice which just does nothing but make you want to laugh.
The camera was so wobbly I thought it had been shot on handheld camera, flipping from one character to the other I thought I had whiplash.
Seriously give this one a miss, really not with wasting 90 minutes of your laugh.
I really expected something gritty and interesting. However the acting let it down, unconvincing, flimsy, just zero depth. The actor playing the father puts on a raspy voice which just does nothing but make you want to laugh.
The camera was so wobbly I thought it had been shot on handheld camera, flipping from one character to the other I thought I had whiplash.
Seriously give this one a miss, really not with wasting 90 minutes of your laugh.
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