
Detainment 2018
"A true story based on interview transcripts and records"
Director Vincent Lambe's gripping 2018 drama *Detainment* plunges into a harrowing true-crime case through the lens of documentary realism.
Director: Vincent Lambe
Cast








Frequently Asked Questions
What is Detainment (2018) about?
*Detainment* follows the interrogation of two 10-year-old boys accused of abducting and murdering a toddler, based on real police transcripts and court records. The film strips away sensationalism to focus on the psychological weight of suspicion and the fragility of innocence under interrogation pressure.
Who directed Detainment?
Vincent Lambe directed *Detainment*. Known for his work in documentary-style filmmaking, Lambe drives the narrative with a commitment to factual accuracy and emotional restraint.
Who stars in Detainment?
The film stars Ely Solan and Leon Hughes as the detained boys, with Will O'Connell taking the lead as the interrogating officer, supported by Tara Breathnach and Morgan C. Jones.
Is Detainment (2018) worth watching?
With its intense themes and documentary authenticity, *Detainment* offers a brief but unforgettable viewing experience for fans of crime drama and psychological realism. Though unrated, its 30-minute runtime and grounded approach make it a compelling watch for those interested in real-life cases and moral dilemmas.
How long is Detainment?
The film runs approximately 30 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Detainment (2018) — A true crime documentary about childhood and justice
Director Vincent Lambe's gripping 2018 drama *Detainment* plunges into a harrowing true-crime case through the lens of documentary realism. The film reconstructs the interrogation of two 10-year-old boys detained by police on suspicion of abducting and murdering a toddler, weaving together chilling transcripts and court records into a tense narrative that blurs the line between justice and childhood innocence. With an atmosphere of suffocating dread and moral ambiguity, Lambe crafts a story that lingers long after the 30-minute runtime, challenging viewers to confront uncomfortable questions about culpability and the criminalization of youth.
Drawn from real-life events, *Detainment* immerses audiences in the claustrophobic tension of juvenile suspect interviews, where the line between interrogation tactics and psychological manipulation grows disturbingly thin. Starring Ely Solan and Leon Hughes as the detained boys, alongside Leon Hughes' Will O'Connell as their determined interrogator, the film's stark performances amplify its raw emotional power. A crime drama steeped in documentary authenticity, it's a haunting exploration of guilt, power, and the irreversible consequences of fear.