"Amber Alert" is more cheap and routine than thrilling on second try

Amber Alert (2024)

One would hope that twelve years was enough time for director Kerry Bellessa to right the wrongs of his first movie of the same name. 2012’s "Amber Alert" was framed as a found-footage film, but it was patience-trying, spent mostly in the car with dumb characters who incessantly argued and would never shut up — seeing them drive off a cliff would have been preferred. Starring Hayden Panettiere and Tyler James Williams (Gregory on "Abbott Elementary"), this "Amber Alert" is a little better, scrapping the found-footage gimmick and most importantly the annoying bickering, but not by much to be worth recommending. 

In this loose reworking of the same general premise, it’s two complete strangers who end up going on a manhunt. Late for a date after missing her ride, Jaq (Hayden Panettiere) flags down rideshare driver Shane (Tyler James Williams). He’s off duty, and on his way to make things right with his son and ex-wife for his son’s birthday party, but gives in and hits the road. Along the way, an “amber alert” signals on each of their phones. The mother of the kidnapped child has happened to catch the general make and model of the abductor’s vehicle—a black Toyota Camry—but no license plate. Sure enough, Jaq spots that same car on the drive through Kentucky, pushing Shane to stay close and hopefully save a little girl. Read the full review at GuyAtTheMovies.com

Grade: C

Lionsgate released "Amber Alert" (90 min.) in select theaters and on demand on September 27, 2024.