Amber Alert (2024) delivers a tense and suspenseful thriller that keeps you on edge for most of its runtime, but ultimately falls short of being a standout in the genre. The movie revolves around a child abduction case, using the titular "Amber Alert" as its central plot device, and blends elements of crime drama with psychological tension.

The film's greatest strength lies in its atmosphere. The pacing is relentless, with enough twists and turns to maintain engagement, especially in the first two acts. The direction does a commendable job of creating a sense of urgency and dread, with handheld camera work and dark, claustrophobic settings that enhance the mood.

Performances are solid across the board, especially from the lead detective, whose emotional conflict adds a human layer to the otherwise procedural narrative. The abductor is portrayed with chilling ambiguity, keeping the audience guessing about motives and identity until the final act.

However, where Amber Alert stumbles is in its third act. The resolution, while satisfying, feels rushed and a little predictable. Some of the emotional beats don't land as effectively as they could, and the supporting characters often feel underdeveloped, leaving you wanting more depth. Additionally, the film occasionally leans too heavily on familiar thriller tropes, making parts of the story feel formulaic.

Overall, Amber Alert is a well-crafted thriller that delivers enough tension and drama to be worth watching. It may not break new ground in the genre, but for its strong performances and atmospheric direction, this film should be on your watchlist, though it may not leave a lasting impression.

The child is kidnapped in less than 20 seconds. A mom is partial witness too late. Two strangers on the cusp of being late for an important appointment separately. The guilt and pressure, a choice is made. An Amber Alert hits all phones. What would YOU do if there was a strong chance the kidnappers vehicle was near you?!?!

From this point on it gets intense. Is it the kidnapper? What is the driver's intentions?!? You find out more about the car in question and driver. Do you trust instinct? Do you risk your important appointment. Do you risk your safety and your life quite literally?

The two main characters Jaq & Shane are relatable and you learn a little more about them. Some aspects of the movie are obvious. Yet some things have you trying to figure out until the near end.

Although the movie is good. I'd say Halle Berry's 2017 Kidnap was more intense and somehow better.

The last 30 minutes of Amber Alert is disturbing. As you can piece together what has/will happened/happen and it's pretty unimaginable horrific.

So far, this year, this is the best movie I have seen. I am being completely genuine when saying this and this is written September 2024 so most of the year is over already. I won't spoil it but the ending is actually satisfying and it's an interesting plot with surprising twists. If you have not seen this movie yet, check it out on Netflix. The producer did a great job with this movie and it was casted extremely well, with every character looking like what I would imagine what they should for their role in movie. Hopefully the producer and the rest of the team will stay united and keep making incredible movies similar to this. The movie was a good length.