What Is iHostage’s True Story That Inspired the Netflix Movie?

Netflix’s iHostage has grabbed global attention for its nerve-wracking depiction of a high-stakes hostage situation inside an Apple Store. With its tight pacing and unusual circumstances, many viewers are left wondering—could iHostage really be a true story? Here are all the details.

Is Netflix’s iHostage based on a true story?

Yes, iHostage is inspired by a true story that took place in Amsterdam in 2022.

The film follows the harrowing standoff between a gunman and law enforcement, with innocent civilians trapped inside the store. While director Bobby Boermans took some creative liberties for dramatic effect, the core events remain faithful to what actually happened.

Boermans told TIME that while the film condenses time and focuses on a handful of characters for storytelling purposes, most key moments in the movie align with reality. “We consciously focused solely on the night of the hostage situation,” he said. “Most of the story beats you see on screen are based on things that actually happened.”

What is the real world incident that inspired iHostage?

The real-world incident that inspired Netflix’s iHostage happened on February 22, 2022.

A 27-year-old man, later identified as Abdel Rahman Akkad, entered an Apple Store in Amsterdam’s Leidseplein square. Armed with a gun and what appeared to be explosives strapped to his body, he took a 44-year-old Bulgarian customer hostage.

Akkad demanded €200 million in cryptocurrency and a safe exit. As police surrounded the store, dozens of customers escaped, while four hid inside a supply closet—a detail accurately depicted in the film. The gunman also sent photos to local media, escalating the tension.

After hours of negotiation, the hostage saw an opportunity to flee when Akkad requested water. As the suspect chased him outside, police rammed him with a vehicle, knocking him unconscious. While Akkad initially survived, he succumbed to his injuries the next day.

While iHostage stays faithful to the true story—such as the timeline, ransom demand, and survival of all hostages—it also dramatizes certain elements for cinematic effect.