Warning: This article contains discussion of rape which some readers may find distressing.
Netflix subscribers are left in shock, with many expressing feelings of disgust and distress after watching a deeply unsettling film that’s been called ‘the most disturbing movie ever’. The streaming giant has a reputation for delivering chilling true crime stories, such as the recent release Tell Them You Love Me, and there’s an upcoming sequel to the Emmy award-winning Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story. However, it’s a different film that’s currently causing a stir.
The film in question, Cleveland Abduction, is a crime drama from 2015, originally aired on Lifetime. The movie’s foundation in grim reality has particularly disturbed viewers, who can’t believe the events depicted actually occurred.
One viewer expressed their horror on X, formerly known as Twitter, saying: “Watching a movie called Cleveland Abduction, I’m so disgusted & disturbed by it & the fact that it’s actually based on a true story makes it even more terrifying. How could anyone be so inhuman?”
Cleveland Abduction dramatizes the true story of three women who were abducted and held captive by Ariel Castro in Cleveland, Ohio. The film depicts the harrowing experiences of Michelle Knight, played by Taryn Manning, who is kidnapped by Castro (portrayed by Raymond Cruz) while on her way to court to fight for custody of her son.
The narrative follows her tragic ordeal and that of the other two victims, Amanda Berry and Gina DeJesus, spotlighting their unimaginable suffering. The story’s portrayal has resonated profoundly with viewers, prompting an outpouring of empathy and shock.
One person shared their emotional reaction online: “The Cleveland Abduction is such a sad movie. Bro was f***ed up. Those girls went through hell.” Another viewer mentioned the additional heartbreak of Knight’s situation, saying, “Watching this Lifetime movie called Cleveland Abduction and crying my eyes out. This girl got kidnapped and no one looked for her. Just thought she was a runaway. They adopted off her kid and the adoptive parents basically told her no contact whatsoever.”
When asked about the most disturbing movie ever seen, one individual didn’t hesitate to name Cleveland Abduction as their top unsettling pick.
If you’re considering watching this film, be prepared for a tough, emotional viewing experience. For those affected by similar issues, support is available through The National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673) – a service available 24/7. Alternatively, online chat support can be accessed at online.rainn.org.