There was sly approach to the "ransom" theme on the part of the producers of "My Daughter's Ransom" (a.k.a., "Race for My Daughter"). Along with the attempt to develop a gripping drama, the filmmakers added a touch of parody to the kidnapping trope.
Rachel Rogers is desperate to saver her daughter Lindsey, who is kidnapped during a visit to the zoo. Rachel immediately learns that the culprit is her ex-boyfriend Carter. While they were dating, Rachel witnessed Carter commit cold-blooded murder and turned him into the cops instead of providing him with an alibi. Now, twelve years later, Carter has been released from prison and is out for revenge.
The clever Carter has provided a direct line of communication to Rachel with a headphone, and he orders her to perform specific tasks if she wants her daughter returned to her. There is an outrageous scene at the corporate headquarters where Rachel is forced to ask her husband Tony for a divorce. She also must admit that she is having an affair with Tony's colleague Frank. Frank and his wife Gina are awfully confused when they meet with Rachel and Tony for an epic, four-way meltdown.
The film's attempt at parody didn't completely work as it never seemed very credible or even humorous. It was especially troubling that Rachel would leave the scene when her mother-in-law Diane was in the throes of a heart attack Nevertheless, the pace of the film was lively with Rachel constantly in motion in the race to save her daughter.
At least "My Daughter's Ransom" offered a much-needed variation on a predictable kidnapping film. There was great energy and devotion apparent in Rachel's race to the finish line.
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