Dadnapped
"Melissa’s vacation just turned into a rescue mission."
Melissa Morris feels overshadowed by her dad's wildly popular novel about a teenage super spy. The story on the page makes her life feel pale by comparison, and she bristles at the idea that she should measure up to her father's hero. Then a fan frenzy takes a dangerous turn when Neal Morris is... Read more
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Streaming availability last verified: February 10, 2026
About Dadnapped
Melissa Morris feels overshadowed by her dad's wildly popular novel about a teenage super spy. The story on the page makes her life feel pale by comparison, and she bristles at the idea that she should measure up to her father's hero. Then a fan frenzy takes a dangerous turn when Neal Morris is grabbed by a group who mistake him for the author of the book and the creator of the famous teen agent. With her father missing, Melissa realizes she has a chance to prove she can act when it counts. She embraces a flash of courage, gathering a quirky team, including Wheeze, her loyal friend, and the eccentric Merv Kilbo, to track clues and stage a rescue. The challenge tests trust, resilience, and what family really means.
Directed by Paul Hoen, Dadnapped is a Disney Channel Original Movie inspired by Alan Silberberg's concept. Produced for television in 2009, it blends brisk action with light hearted humor and family friendly thrills, designed for easy viewing with broad appeal.
Critics and audiences received it as light entertainment that leans on the chemistry between Melissa and Wheeze. Core themes revolve around sibling pride, the lure of fame, and stepping up when family is in trouble. The film favors humor over heavy drama while delivering a simple message about courage, teamwork, and believing in yourself.
As part of the late 2000s Disney Channel slate, the movie fits the era's teen friendly approach and meta setup about a dad author living in his own fictional world. The cast showcases Osment and Henrie in a playful, self aware adventure that echoes that period's TV comedy memory.
No major awards or nominations are listed for Dadnapped, which remains a TV movie entry celebrated by fans for its light humor and star duo rather than accolades. It functions as a wholesome rescue tale with a sunny finish that feels earned.
Details
- Release Date
- February 16, 2009
- Runtime
- 1h 24m
- Rating
- G
- User Ratings
- 238 votes
- Type
- Movie
- Genres
- Comedy, Adventure, Action, Family, TV Movie, Crime
- Country
- United States
- Studio
- Salty Pictures +2 more
- Budget
- $4,500,000
- External Links
- View on IMDB
Official Trailer
Cast
Emily Osment
Melissa Morris
David Henrie
Wheeze
Jason Earles
Merv Kilbo
George Newbern
Neal Morris
Phill Lewis
Maurice Legarche
Jennifer Stone
Debbie
Denzel Whitaker
Sheldon
Jonathan Keltz
Tripp Zoome
Charles Halford
Skunk
Moisés Arias
Andre
Director: Paul Hoen
Written by: Alan Silberberg