20th Century Women (2016) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Released in 2016 and directed by Mike Mills, “20th Century Women” is a heartfelt and insightful drama that delves into the lives of three women navigating the complexities of life and relationships in the late 1970s. With its rich character development and reflective storytelling, the film offers a poignant look at generational and feminist issues.
Plot Summary
Set in 1979 Santa Barbara, “20th Century Women” focuses on Dorothea Fields (Annette Bening), a single mother trying to raise her teenage son, Jamie (Lucas Jade Zumann), in a rapidly changing world. Dorothea’s unconventional approach to parenting includes enlisting the help of two women in her life: Abbie (Greta Gerwig), a feminist and aspiring photographer, and Julie (Elle Fanning), a rebellious teenage friend of Jamie’s.
The film explores the dynamics between these characters as they each influence Jamie’s coming-of-age journey. Through their interactions, the film paints a rich portrait of the era’s social and cultural shifts, highlighting the unique challenges and triumphs faced by women of that time.
Why You Should Watch It
“20th Century Women” is celebrated for its authentic portrayal of life, relationships, and personal growth. Annette Bening delivers a standout performance as Dorothea, capturing the essence of a woman striving to understand and guide her son while reconciling her own desires and beliefs. Greta Gerwig and Elle Fanning also offer compelling performances that add depth to the film’s exploration of feminist and generational themes.
Mike Mills’ direction and screenplay infuse the film with warmth and introspection, making it a resonant and relatable experience. The film’s thoughtful narrative and rich character development offer a deep and engaging look at the lives of women in a transformative era.
Streaming Services and Rental Options
To watch “20th Century Women” online, consider the following options:
Streaming Services:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for streaming with a subscription to Amazon Prime.
- Hulu: Can be streamed with a subscription to Hulu’s Live TV plan.
- HBO Max: Available for streaming for subscribers.
Rental and Purchase Options:
- iTunes: Rent or buy “20th Century Women” through Apple’s iTunes Store, with options for standard and high-definition.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rent or purchase, providing flexibility in viewing options.
- Vudu: Rent or buy the film in HD or UHD quality.
These platforms provide various ways to view “20th Century Women,” whether through a subscription service or a one-time rental or purchase.
Conclusion
“20th Century Women” is a deeply moving and insightful film that offers a rich portrayal of the complexities of life and relationships through the lens of feminist and generational themes. With strong performances and a thoughtful narrative, it is a film that resonates with audiences and provides a poignant look at personal and societal change. Whether you choose to stream it on Amazon Prime or Hulu, or rent it through iTunes or Google Play, this film is a must-watch for its heartfelt exploration of women’s lives and experiences.
