The new British crime drama “Girl Taken” on Paramount+ has generated mixed reviews, primarily due to its sharp decline in quality after a promising start. Based on Hollie Overton’s novel “Babydoll,” the series diverges from typical mystery formats by revealing the identity of the antagonist early on—Rick Hanson, played by Alfie Allen. Rick’s duality as a trusted teacher and a sociopathic kidnapper sets the stage for a gripping narrative that unfortunately falters as the story progresses.
The plot initially captivates with the abduction of Lily Riser, a senior student, which triggers a collapse of her family as they grapple with the trauma of her disappearance. While Rick’s character is portrayed with depth through Allen’s performance, the same cannot be said for the supporting cast. The performances of Delphi and Tallulah Evans lack the emotional range needed to convey the terror of captivity or the family’s descent into despair. Jill Halfpenny’s character, Eve, is reduced to a stereotype of the emotionally damaged parent, and the writing does not allow for the complexities of addiction and its effects on familial relationships to be fully explored.
The narrative’s focus shifts away from the potential of a robust exploration of trauma and justice, leaning instead on a psychological thriller trajectory that falls short. Although evocative moments present themselves—particularly between Abby and Wes (L Levi Brown)—they are not given the necessary screen time to develop, further frustrating the viewer’s expectations.
Despite these issues, “Girl Taken” attempts to draw parallels with other narratives about societal failures and parental neglect, drawing a loose analogy to the series “Adolescence.” However, it misses opportunities for deeper analysis, with crucial themes like mental health and school safety left unaddressed.
Ultimately, the series begins strong but struggles to maintain its initial momentum, leading to a disappointing overall experience. Viewers seeking a compelling crime drama may find more satisfaction elsewhere, as “Girl Taken” may not live up to its early promise.