iHostage (2025) Blu-ray Review - Tense but Shallow Thriller

iHostage (2025) Blu-ray Review - Tense but Shallow Thriller

2 min read | Posted on May 13, 2025 by Blu-rayCinema.com

A Real-Life Standoff

iHostage (2025), a Dutch crime thriller directed by Bobby Boermans, recreates the 2022 Amsterdam Apple Store hostage crisis with gripping tension. Starring Soufiane Moussouli and Loes Haverkort, it’s a Netflix hit that’s now on Blu-ray. At Blu-rayCinema.com, our iHostage Blu-ray review explores its appeal for thriller fans.

The Crisis: Ransom and Rescue

When Ammar Ajar (Moussouli), a gunman in camouflage, storms an Amsterdam Apple Store, he takes Bulgarian tourist Ilian Petrov (Admir Šehović) hostage, demanding $200 million in cryptocurrency and safe passage. Chief negotiator Lynn (Haverkort) works to de-escalate, while police, led by Abe (Matteo van der Grijn), and employees like Mingus (Emmanuel Ohene Boafo) hiding in a closet navigate the 100-minute ordeal. The multi-perspective approach builds suspense, but flat characters and weak dialogue limit emotional impact, as some X posts note.

Blu-ray Quality: Crisp and Immersive

Released May 13, 2025, the iHostage Blu-ray delivers a 4K UHD transfer, showcasing the Apple Store’s sleek interior and Amsterdam’s urban grit with vivid detail. The Dolby Atmos soundtrack amplifies gunshots and tense negotiations, though some dubbing feels off. Extras include a director’s commentary and featurettes on the true story, making it a draw for Soufiane Moussouli movie collectors and crime thriller Blu-ray fans.

The Verdict: Thrilling but Forgettable

iHostage scores 36% on Rotten Tomatoes, lauded for pacing and realism but panned for undeveloped characters and lack of depth. X posts call it “boring” or praise its suspense, reflecting mixed sentiment. It’s a solid thriller but misses emotional resonance. Crime thriller Blu-ray collectors will enjoy its technical merits and extras.

Final Score: 3/5 Stars

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