Elizabeth Smart’s Courage Shines in Inspiring Kidnapped Review | TV & Radio
Netflix continues to captivate audiences with its latest true-crime documentary, “Kidnapped,” which tells the harrowing story of Elizabeth Smart. Released in early 2023, this 90-minute film provides an in-depth look at her abduction that shocked the nation.
Elizabeth Smart’s Abduction
In June 2002, Elizabeth Smart was taken from her home in Salt Lake City, Utah, at just 14 years old. Her kidnapping occurred at knifepoint, witnessed by her younger sister. Elizabeth was held captive for nine long months, enduring daily abuse and constant threats against her family.
The Community’s Response
As news of her disappearance spread, the local community rallied to support her family. The Smart family’s close-knit Mormon community distributed thousands of posters and organized extensive search efforts. Elizabeth’s father, Ed Smart, often broke down during press conferences, reflecting the family’s anguish.
Police Investigations and Leads
The investigation into Elizabeth’s abduction faced numerous challenges. Only fragments of information from her sister, Mary Katherine, provided clues. At times, the police even investigated the Smart family, which added to their frustration. Despite the odds, the family made the brave decision to publicly share details about the suspect, Brian David Mitchell.
The Pursuit of Justice
Mitchell, a transient who referred to himself as Immanuel David Isaiah, was later confirmed as Elizabeth’s kidnapper. He and his accomplice, Wanda Barzee, were seen in the community, raising the stakes for the investigation. Police had previously questioned them but dismissed the encounter, believing it clashed with their beliefs.
Elizabeth’s Journey to Healing
Now 38 years old, Elizabeth Smart has transformed her trauma into activism. She speaks frankly about her experiences, emphasizing the importance of disavowing shame. Her goal is to advocate for the rights of survivors and the protection of vulnerable individuals.
The Legal Proceedings
The path to justice was not straightforward. It took nearly a decade for Mitchell’s case to reach trial due to his attempts to declare himself mentally unfit. However, Elizabeth persevered through the turbulent process, which she described as feeling rigged against her. In 2011, Mitchell was finally convicted of kidnapping and sentenced to life without parole.
Impact of “Kidnapped”
While “Kidnapped” delivers a compelling narrative, it also raises questions about the role of true-crime documentaries in society. They often serve as a platform for survivors to share their stories. Nevertheless, Elizabeth Smart’s courage shines brightly throughout the film, representing a voice of empowerment and resilience.
“Kidnapped” is currently available on Netflix, offering viewers an insightful and powerful retelling of Elizabeth Smart’s experience.
