There are a surprising number of comedic stories centered around kidnapping. Set in Haiti, Kidnapping Inc. follows two level gangsters. Doc (Jasmuel Andri) and Zoe (Rolapthon Mercure) have been tasked to transport the kidnapped son of a presidential candidate. It is not long before their plan goes awry when they accidentally kill him. Thankfully, they stumble across someone who looks just like the deceased. Caught between a heated election and soccer match, the two find themselves at the center of a political conspiracy.
Pace is an important part of a film that has as much going on as Kidnapping Inc. (There is also a pregnant woman and an attempt to come to America that are integral to the plot.) Wisely, the movie always moves forward at a rapid clip. This makes for a very energetic watch with little down time.
It is in these calmer moments that things feel a little off, however. Things start with text explaining how there are a high number of kidnappings in Haiti. It is a serious opening, but not impossible to build a comedy from. But then, the script delves heavily into Haitian politics. While Kidnapping Inc. does a better job than other movies that go all in on the action, the tonal shifts can be very jarring.
Andri and Mercure have great chemistry and do an excellent job of keeping things together. No matter how ridiculous or hard to follow things may get, they remain a fun pair that will make audiences want to keep watching. There are also some genuine laughs to be had. The tone may be too wild, but there is no denying that this is a funny movie.
It is not easy to go from zany action comedy to tense political thriller. For all the good a movie may do, it can also be very confusing for those watching. There is a lot to like about Kidnapping Inc., but the changes in mood will prevent many from completely enjoying it.
