Proof of Life

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Proof of Life

R

2000

2h 15m

Mystery & Thriller

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Tomatometer

Popcornmeter

38%

Tomatometer

115 Reviews

43%

Popcornmeter

25,000+ Ratings

In this romantic drama, Peter Bowman, an American engineer in a Latin American country is captured by anti-government forces. When the rebels learn his identity they demand $6 million for his safe return. However, his US employer is on the verge of insolvency and will not provide the ransom. Peter's wife Alice is forced to deal with the matter on her own. She retains the services of freelance professional hostage negotiator Terry Thorne.

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Critics Consensus

Despite its promising premise and superstar cast, Proof of Life is just a routine thriller that doesn't offer anything new.

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Nell Minow

Common Sense Media

Good story, but too violent for kids.

Rated: 3/5

Dec 27, 2010

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David Ansen

Newsweek

Neither Crowe, Ryan nor the topical subject keeps Proof of Life from feeling recycled. For all the up-to-the-minute research, the movie still gives off the musty scent of Hollywood contrivance.

Mar 31, 2008

Full Review

Roger Ebert

Chicago Sun-Times

I was interested all through the movie--interested, but not riveted.

Rated: 2.5/4

Dec 8, 2000

Full Review

Jim Lane

Sacramento News & Review

Rated: 3/5

Aug 7, 2008

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Michael Dequina

TheMovieReport.com

Whatever sparks ignited off the set fail to register on film, in essence ruining Taylor Hackford's drama.

Rated: 2/4

Oct 14, 2007

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Joe Lozito

Big Picture Big Sound

Rated: 1.5/4

Jul 14, 2007

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Vivian M

A beautiful thrilling movie. Undeserved low rating.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

07/28/25

Full Review

Christian K

Didn't realize how much the Aussie accent could add the Crowe's presence.

Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars

07/04/25

Full Review

Crystal R

It seems like too many people miss the point of this movie. Sure, there's an action plot running through it but it's really about the relationship between Meg Ryan and Russel Crowe. It's not trying to be a groundbreaking action film.

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

10/04/24

Full Review

J. S

I enjoyed the movie! Rolls right along. Great cast for all parts!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

08/23/24

Full Review

Steve D

Nothing new and not exciting.

Rated 2 out of 5 stars

09/24/23

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Marc I

This picture is under-valued. I watch a lot of movies. I am 75 and saw this once shortly after its release. Not many pictures can be remembered in almost in their entirety 20 years later. When I hear about 3rd world country kidnappings, or any kidnappings this picture, POL, always becomes the model for how these things should be handled. It may be all the bad things critics say about it, but I say see it. There are many pictures critics will tell you are great, but I bet you won't remember them 20 years later.

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

08/21/24

Full Review

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Taylor Hackford

Director

Meg Ryan

Alice

Russell Crowe

Terry Thorne

David Morse

Peter Bowman

Pamela Reed

Janis Goodman

David Caruso

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Synopsis

In this romantic drama, Peter Bowman, an American engineer in a Latin American country is captured by anti-government forces. When the rebels learn his identity they demand $6 million for his safe return. However, his US employer is on the verge of insolvency and will not provide the ransom. Peter's wife Alice is forced to deal with the matter on her own. She retains the services of freelance professional hostage negotiator Terry Thorne.

Director: Taylor Hackford
Producer: Taylor Hackford, Charles Mulvehill
Screenwriter: Tony Gilroy
Distributor: Warner Bros. Pictures, Warner Home Vídeo
Production Co: Anvil Films, Castle Rock Entertainment, Bel Air Entertainment
Rating: R (Some Drug Related Material|Language|Violence)
Genre: Mystery & Thriller
Original Language: English
Release Date (Theaters): Dec 8, 2000, Wide
Release Date (Streaming): Dec 1, 2010
Box Office (Gross USA): $32.6M
Runtime: 2h 15m
Sound Mix: SDDS, Dolby SR, DTS, Surround, Dolby Stereo
Aspect Ratio: Scope (2.35:1)

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