A Monster Calls (2016) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
A Monster Calls (2016), directed by J.A. Bayona, is a visually stunning and emotionally powerful film that blends fantasy with deep, human drama. Based on the novel by Patrick Ness, who also wrote the screenplay, the film tells the story of a young boy coping with his mother’s terminal illness through the help of an ancient, mythical creature. With stellar performances and breathtaking visuals, A Monster Calls is a poignant exploration of grief, loss, and the power of storytelling. This review will explore the film’s plot, standout elements, and where you can stream or purchase A Monster Calls online.
Plot Overview
The story centers on 12-year-old Conor O’Malley (Lewis MacDougall), who is struggling to deal with the impending death of his beloved mother (Felicity Jones) due to terminal cancer. Bullied at school and feeling isolated, Conor retreats into his imagination to escape the harsh realities of his life.
One night, at precisely 12:07 AM, Conor is visited by a monstrous yew tree (voiced by Liam Neeson) that comes to life. The Monster tells Conor that it will come to him on three different nights, each time telling him a story. After the Monster has told its three stories, Conor must tell the Monster a story of his own—one that reveals his deepest truth.
As the Monster shares its tales, Conor is forced to confront his feelings of anger, guilt, and grief, leading him to a cathartic realization about the nature of loss and the complexities of human emotions. The stories told by the Monster are not what Conor expects; they are complex, morally ambiguous, and challenge his understanding of good and evil.
The film’s narrative weaves between Conor’s real life and the fantastical world of the Monster, blending CGI with live-action to create a visually arresting experience that mirrors the emotional depth of the story.
Why A Monster Calls (2016) Stands Out
A Monster Calls stands out for its unique blend of fantasy and drama, using the structure of a fairy tale to explore the very real and painful emotions associated with grief and loss. The film’s ability to address these heavy themes through the lens of a child’s imagination is one of its most compelling aspects.
Lewis MacDougall delivers an extraordinary performance as Conor, capturing the raw, conflicted emotions of a boy who is struggling to understand his mother’s illness and the inevitability of her death. His portrayal is both heartbreaking and deeply relatable, providing the emotional core of the film.
Liam Neeson’s voice performance as the Monster is another highlight, bringing a sense of gravitas and wisdom to the character. The Monster serves as both a guide and a challenger to Conor, helping him navigate his emotions through the stories it tells. Neeson’s deep, resonant voice adds a layer of intensity and authority to the character, making the Monster both intimidating and comforting.
Felicity Jones, as Conor’s mother, delivers a tender and moving performance, portraying a woman trying to maintain a sense of normalcy for her son despite her illness. Sigourney Weaver also provides a strong supporting performance as Conor’s strict but caring grandmother, who becomes an important figure in his life as his mother’s condition worsens.
The film’s visual style is another standout element. The sequences involving the Monster’s stories are beautifully animated, with a watercolor-like aesthetic that sets them apart from the live-action scenes. These sequences are not only visually stunning but also thematically rich, each story offering a different perspective on life’s complexities.
J.A. Bayona’s direction is masterful, balancing the film’s emotional intensity with its fantastical elements. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the audience to fully absorb the weight of Conor’s journey while also being captivated by the film’s visual storytelling.
The score, composed by Fernando Velázquez, enhances the film’s emotional impact, with its haunting melodies underscoring the themes of loss and acceptance. The music complements the film’s tone perfectly, adding to the overall sense of melancholy and hope.
Where to Watch A Monster Calls (2016) Online
If you’re interested in watching A Monster Calls (2016) online, there are several streaming and rental options available in the United States. Here’s where you can find this emotionally resonant fantasy drama:
Streaming Services:
- Amazon Prime Video: A Monster Calls is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. If you’re a Prime member, you can watch the film as part of your subscription.
- Hulu: A Monster Calls is not currently available on Hulu, but it may be worth checking periodically as the platform’s library frequently updates.
- Netflix: The film may occasionally be available on Netflix, depending on your region. It’s advisable to check the platform during your search.
Rental/Purchase Options:
- Amazon Prime Video: For those who prefer to rent or own the film, Amazon offers rental options starting at $3.99 and purchase options at $12.99 in HD.
- Apple iTunes: Apple users can rent A Monster Calls for $3.99 or purchase it for $14.99. The platform offers the movie in HD quality.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Google Play offers the movie for rent at $3.99 or purchase for $14.99. The platform’s versatility across devices makes it an accessible choice.
- Vudu: On Vudu, A Monster Calls is available for rental starting at $2.99, with purchase options around $14.99. Vudu provides various viewing quality options, including HDX.
Subscription Services:
- HBO Max: As of the latest update, A Monster Calls is not available on HBO Max.
- Disney+: The film is not part of the Disney+ library.
Why You Should Watch A Monster Calls (2016)
A Monster Calls is a film that speaks to the heart, offering a profound exploration of grief and the human experience through the eyes of a child. Its blend of fantasy and reality creates a unique narrative that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. The film’s powerful performances, particularly from Lewis MacDougall and Liam Neeson, make it a compelling watch for anyone who appreciates deep, character-driven stories.
The movie’s handling of difficult themes such as loss, guilt, and acceptance is done with sensitivity and care, making it an excellent choice for viewers seeking a film that not only entertains but also offers meaningful insights into the complexities of life.
Conclusion
In conclusion, A Monster Calls (2016) is a beautifully crafted film that combines fantasy and emotional depth to tell a story of love, loss, and healing. With its strong performances, stunning visuals, and thoughtful exploration of difficult themes, the film is a must-watch for those who appreciate storytelling that touches the soul. Its availability on various streaming and rental platforms ensures that this moving and visually captivating film can be enjoyed by a wide audience, making it an essential addition to any movie lover’s collection.
