Ransom! (1956)

In the heart of the thriving vacuum cleaner manufacturing industry, Dave Stannard emerges as the triumphant CEO of a family business, shaping a blissful upper middle-class life for his wife Edith and their eight-year-old son, Andy. The Stannard name is etched into the public consciousness, not only for their vacuum cleaners but also their sponsorship of a weekly live television show. However, their idyllic existence is shattered when one day, Andy's tardy return from school ignites a chilling fear – the unthinkable possibility of his kidnapping. The frantic telephone exchanges and unnerving silence confirm their worst nightmare. The Stannards, under the guidance of the seasoned Chief Jim Backett and his team, navigate the harrowing terrain of a child's abduction. The investigation is a carefully guarded secret, shared only with a chosen few like their loyal household staff and the family doctor. However, the news seeps into unwanted corners, reaching the ears of the ambitious newspaper reporter, Charlie Telfer, who is hunting for an exclusive scoop. The grim reality crystallizes when the Stannards receive a ransom demand of half a million dollars, with Andy's life hanging in balance. A desperate Edith urges acquiescence to the kidnapper's terms, but the ultimate decision rests with Dave, who is bombarded with advice from all quarters. In a daring move, Dave, inspired by a casual comment from Charlie, chooses to defy the conventional wisdom. Taking to the national television, Dave unveils the ransom money, but declares a shocking twist – no penny will be given to the kidnapper. Instead, he promises to use the funds to hunt down the criminal, if Andy is not returned unharmed. This audacious stand triggers a wave of public condemnation and media uproar, even as the police uncover a blood-stained shirt - a haunting reminder of Andy's peril. Dave's gamble risks not only Andy's life but also the entirety of his personal and professional existence, setting the stage for a gripping test of courage and resilience.

Ransom! is a crime movie featuring Glenn Ford and directed by Alex Segal.

Ransom! is currently streaming on TBS.