Watch Steven Spielberg Presents Taken

  • 1969

Steven Spielberg Presents Taken from Paramount Pictures is a gripping and deeply emotional sci-fi drama series that explores the concept of alien abduction and the effects it has on families across generations. The show was produced and directed by Steven Spielberg, whose influence can be seen in its high production values, stunning visual effects, and engaging storytelling.

The series follows the lives of three families who experience abductions by extraterrestrial beings. Set across three generations, the story begins with the abduction of a young girl, Allie Keys, in the 1940s. Her experience leads to a lifelong obsession with the topic of alien abductions and has a profound effect on her daughter and grandson.

Over the course of ten episodes, we see how the lives of the families of the Keys, Crawford, and Clarke clans are shaped and changed by their encounters with extraterrestrial life. Along the way, we see the human cost of their experiences, including the impact on personal relationships, careers, and mental health.

The show's focus on character development is one of its strongest points. The audience gets to know each character intimately, as we follow them through the highs and lows of their life experiences. The show allows the viewers to connect with the characters on a personal level which strengthens the emotional impact of the show.

The series is shot in various locations in the United States and Canada with each episode running for approximately 50 minutes. It features a talented ensemble cast led by Dakota Fanning who plays the young Allie Keys. Other notable actors include Julie Benz, Ryan Hurst, Joel Gretsch, Eric Close, and Catherine Dent. The cast delivers a powerhouse of performances that keep the audience engaged throughout the series.

The show's direction also deserves particular praise. Spielberg's masterful storytelling techniques are on full display, with his signature flair for suspense and drama adding to the non-stop excitement of the series. The series explores a wide range of themes, including family, love, loss, betrayal, and redemption, all of which are handled with sensitivity and depth.

The show's atmospheric and haunting score is another highlight, adding to the already high production values. The music is used effectively to create a sense of tension and to heighten the emotional impact of key scenes. The series also features various hit songs from the 1940s to the 1960s, which add to the authenticity of the time period setting.

Taken provides a deep dive into alien abduction folklore and alien conspiracies. The show does not offer quick answers to the mysteries it presents. Instead, the show's climax seeks to offer an interesting insight that carefully sews together three generations' worth of narrative. Taken is a masterpiece of sci-fi dramatic storytelling that engages the audience and leaves them thoroughly absorbed in the intricate world of alien abductions and its after-effects.

Watch Apple TV+ Originals
Do you have Apple TV?
Ad Info
No thanks, I'm not interested in Apple TV