”71 (2014)

’71 (2014) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online

’71 (2014), directed by Yann Demange, is a gripping British thriller set during the Troubles in Northern Ireland. The film, starring Jack O’Connell, is a tense and immersive portrayal of a young British soldier’s struggle to survive in hostile territory. With its intense action sequences and strong performances, ’71 provides a compelling look at a turbulent period in history. In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, performances, and historical context, and provide guidance on where to watch ’71 online, including streaming services and rental/purchase options in the United States.

Plot Overview: A Soldier’s Nightmare

’71 centers on Gary Hook (Jack O’Connell), a young British soldier who is deployed to Belfast during the Troubles, a period of conflict in Northern Ireland between 1968 and 1998.

Key plot points include:

• The Deployment: The film opens with Gary Hook and his platoon arriving in Belfast. The soldiers are sent into a volatile area, and tensions are high as they encounter both local IRA members and civilians caught in the crossfire.
• The Incident: During a routine patrol, Hook’s unit is ambushed, and he becomes separated from the rest of his platoon. The film follows his harrowing journey through the city as he tries to find his way back to safety.
• Survival in Hostile Territory: Hook’s survival becomes increasingly difficult as he navigates a city fraught with danger. He must evade both the IRA and hostile locals who view him as an enemy.
• Personal Struggle: The film delves into Hook’s personal struggles as he faces the harsh realities of his situation. His experience is marked by fear, isolation, and a desperate fight for survival.

’71 is a tense thriller that captures the chaos and danger of the Troubles, providing a visceral and immersive experience.

Performances: Intense and Authentic

Jack O’Connell delivers a standout performance as Gary Hook, capturing the character’s vulnerability, determination, and resilience. O’Connell’s portrayal brings depth to the film’s central character and enhances the emotional impact of the story.

Sean Harris plays the role of a local IRA member, offering a compelling and nuanced performance that adds complexity to the film’s portrayal of the conflict.

Paul Anderson and David Wilmot also deliver strong performances in supporting roles, contributing to the film’s overall intensity and authenticity.

The performances in ’71 are integral to the film’s success, adding depth and realism to the story.

Historical Context: The Troubles

’71 is set during the Troubles, a complex and violent conflict in Northern Ireland that lasted from the late 1960s to 1998. The Troubles were characterized by clashes between nationalist and unionist communities, as well as between the British government and various paramilitary groups.

Key historical elements portrayed in the film include:

• Political Conflict: The film reflects the deep-seated political and sectarian divisions in Belfast during the Troubles. The conflict involved various groups, including the IRA and loyalist paramilitaries, and was marked by frequent violence and unrest.
• British Army Presence: The British Army was deployed in Northern Ireland to maintain order and combat paramilitary groups. The film portrays the challenges faced by soldiers in a hostile environment, including the dangers of urban warfare and the complexities of interacting with local communities.
• Civilian Impact: ’71 also highlights the impact of the conflict on civilians who were caught in the crossfire. The film provides a glimpse into the everyday struggles and dangers faced by those living in affected areas.

By incorporating these historical elements, ’71 offers a poignant and realistic depiction of a tumultuous period in history.

Visuals and Direction: Tense and Immersive

’71 is known for its intense and immersive visual style:

• Direction: Yann Demange’s direction is characterized by a focus on tension and realism. The film’s pacing and narrative build a sense of urgency and danger, keeping viewers on edge throughout.
• Cinematography: The film’s cinematography effectively captures the gritty and chaotic environment of Belfast. The use of handheld cameras and close-up shots enhances the film’s immediacy and immersion.
• Action Sequences: The action sequences in ’71 are intense and well-executed, adding to the film’s overall tension. The film’s portrayal of urban combat and survival is both thrilling and harrowing.

The visual and directorial choices contribute to the film’s powerful and engaging portrayal of the Troubles.

Critical Reception: A Tense Thriller

’71 received positive reviews from critics and audiences for its intense and gripping portrayal of the Troubles. The film was praised for its strong performances, particularly Jack O’Connell’s portrayal of Gary Hook, and its realistic depiction of the conflict.

Critics appreciated the film’s ability to convey the urgency and danger of the situation, as well as its focus on character development and emotional depth. The film’s historical accuracy and attention to detail were also highlighted as strengths.

Some reviews noted that the film’s intense and relentless approach might be challenging for some viewers, but overall, ’71 was well-received as a powerful and engaging thriller.

Where to Watch ’71 (2014) Online

For those interested in watching ’71, there are several online options available in the United States. The film is accessible through various digital platforms, offering flexibility for viewers.

Streaming Services

1. Amazon Prime Video: ’71 is available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Renting the film typically costs around $3.99, while purchasing it can range from $9.99 to $14.99. Prime members can access the film through the platform’s movie library.
2. Apple TV: The film can also be rented or purchased on Apple TV. Rental prices start at approximately $3.99, and purchasing the film costs around $12.99. Apple TV provides a convenient way to stream the film on various devices.
3. Google Play Movies & TV: ’71 is available for rent or purchase on Google Play Movies & TV, with rental costs generally at $3.99 and purchase options starting at $12.99. Google Play’s platform offers high-quality streaming and is accessible on multiple devices.
4. YouTube Movies: The film can be rented or purchased on YouTube Movies. Rental and purchase prices are comparable to other platforms, with rentals starting at $3.99 and purchases around $12.99.

Rental and Purchase Options

In addition to streaming services, there are other digital platforms where you can rent or purchase ’71:

• Vudu: Offers both rental and purchase options, with rentals starting around $3.99. Vudu is known for its high-definition streaming and extensive movie library.
• FandangoNOW: Another option for renting or purchasing the film online, FandangoNOW provides competitive pricing and a straightforward viewing experience.
• Microsoft Store: Available for rent or purchase, the Microsoft Store offers another avenue for viewers to access the film, particularly for those using Windows devices.

Conclusion: A Tense and Powerful Thriller

’71 (2014) is a gripping and intense thriller that provides a realistic portrayal of the Troubles in Northern Ireland. With strong performances from Jack O’Connell and a focus on survival and personal struggle, the film delivers a powerful and immersive experience.

For those interested in exploring this compelling thriller, there are numerous options available online for streaming, rental, or purchase. Whether you’re drawn to historical dramas or action-packed thrillers, ’71 offers a tense and engaging story that is well worth watching.