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Crime Cult Classic

A kidnapping spirals into chaos and art-house atmosphere in Frederick R. Friedel’s offbeat crime drama.

DATE WITH A KIDNAPPER

He only wanted the ransom - until he saw HER!

1976 · 1h 16m · R · Crime / Drama / Romance · IMDB TMDB

A woman living in a boarding house is kidnapped by a small-time criminal. Soon others in the gang try to take her away from him so they can get the ransom.

Quick Answer

What is Date with a Kidnapper about?

Date with a Kidnapper is a 1976 American crime drama and romance film directed by Frederick R. Friedel about a woman kidnapped by a small-time criminal whose gang soon turns on itself over ransom.

Programmer's Pick

Don’t be fooled by the grindhouse trappings—Friedel’s touch turns this kidnapping caper into a strange, moody meditation on desperation. The film’s artful compositions and jittery lead performance make it more than just another ransom gone wrong.

— SassyFlix Programmer

Overview

Date with a Kidnapper sets itself apart from typical crime fare by merging exploitation elements with art-house sensibilities. The film follows a woman living in a boarding house who is abducted by a petty criminal. The situation grows more perilous and unpredictable when other members of the gang attempt to take her from the original kidnapper, each angling for a cut of the ransom. Instead of leaning on sensationalism, Frederick R. Friedel’s direction prioritizes atmosphere, silence, and carefully framed visuals, giving the story a dreamlike, almost surreal quality. With its brisk 76-minute runtime, the film focuses on mood and psychological tension, offering a distinctive experience that feels as much like a character study as a crime drama.

Details & Specs

Director
Frederick R. Friedel
Writer
Frederick R. Friedel
Release
1976
Runtime
1h 16m
Country
United States of America
Language
English
Also Known As
The Kidnapper, Kidnapped Lover, Trouble, Delirium House la casa del delirio, Kidnapped Coed, House of Terror, The Kidnap Lover, Original title: Date with a Kidnapper

Why Cult

Artful Direction

Frederick R. Friedel’s approach uses careful framing and atmosphere, elevating the film above standard exploitation fare.

Dreamlike Atmosphere

The film leans into silence and surreal touches, creating a mood that’s more art film than action thriller.

Kidnapping Gone Wrong

The premise of a ransom plot unravels as the criminals turn on each other, adding layers of tension.

Quirky Characters

A jittery, unpredictable kidnapper and a cast of oddball accomplices keep the story offbeat and engaging.

Scene Gallery

Threat File

Trigger

Kidnapping of a boarding house resident

Threat

Ransom-seeking criminals turning on each other

Effect

Escalating danger and shifting alliances

Setting

Boarding house and surrounding locales

Questions from the Vault

When was Date with a Kidnapper released? +

Date with a Kidnapper was released in 1976.

Who directed Date with a Kidnapper? +

Frederick R. Friedel directed Date with a Kidnapper.

How long is Date with a Kidnapper? +

Date with a Kidnapper has a runtime of 76 minutes.

What genre is Date with a Kidnapper? +

Date with a Kidnapper is a crime, drama, and romance film.

Where can I watch Date with a Kidnapper? +

Date with a Kidnapper is available to watch on SassyFlix.

Trailers & Clips