A Perfect Day (2015) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
A Perfect Day (2015), directed by Fernando León de Aranoa, is a dark comedy-drama set in the backdrop of the Bosnian War. The film follows a group of humanitarian workers as they navigate the chaos of conflict while trying to remove a dead body from a well. With a blend of humor and pathos, the film provides a unique perspective on the impact of war on those who strive to alleviate its effects. This review will explore the film’s plot, performances, thematic elements, and where you can stream or rent A Perfect Day online in the U.S.
Plot Summary: A Day in the Life of Humanitarian Workers
A Perfect Day centers around a group of humanitarian aid workers in war-torn Bosnia. The story begins with the team discovering a dead body obstructing a well, which has become a critical water source for the local population. The team’s mission becomes a frantic and absurd quest to remove the body, as they encounter various obstacles and characters along the way.
The group includes:
- Micky (Benicio del Toro), a seasoned aid worker with a dry sense of humor.
- Sonia (Tim Robbins), a pragmatic and committed team leader.
- B (Olga Kurylenko), a young and idealistic worker.
- Klaas (Pablo Schreiber), a resourceful but weary member of the team.
As the day progresses, the team faces numerous challenges and absurdities, highlighting the difficulties and frustrations of working in a war zone. The film blends moments of dark comedy with poignant reflections on the impact of conflict and the resilience of those who work to help others.
Performances: A Strong Ensemble Cast
- Benicio del Toro stars as Micky, delivering a nuanced performance that combines dry wit with emotional depth. Del Toro’s portrayal captures the weariness and determination of a humanitarian worker who has seen it all.
- Tim Robbins plays Sonia, the team leader. Robbins brings a blend of authority and compassion to his role, showcasing the character’s leadership skills and commitment to the mission.
- Olga Kurylenko portrays B, a young aid worker. Kurylenko’s performance adds a touch of idealism and vulnerability to the film, highlighting the contrast between experience and youthful enthusiasm.
- Pablo Schreiber appears as Klaas, providing a grounded and pragmatic presence. Schreiber’s performance adds to the film’s sense of realism and urgency.
The ensemble cast effectively conveys the film’s blend of humor and drama, bringing depth to the story’s exploration of the human condition in a conflict zone.
Themes: War, Humanitarian Efforts, and Absurdity
A Perfect Day explores several significant themes:
- The Absurdity of War: The film highlights the absurd and often surreal nature of war. The quest to remove a dead body from a well becomes a metaphor for the irrational and chaotic aspects of conflict.
- Humanitarian Efforts: The film provides a glimpse into the challenges faced by humanitarian workers. It portrays the dedication and frustrations of those who work to provide aid in the midst of crisis, emphasizing the personal and professional sacrifices involved.
- Resilience and Compassion: Despite the harsh realities of their environment, the characters demonstrate resilience and compassion. The film underscores the importance of maintaining empathy and hope even in the most dire circumstances.
Where to Watch A Perfect Day Online in the U.S.
To watch A Perfect Day, you can find it on various streaming and rental platforms:
1. Subscription-Based Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: Check Amazon Prime Video for availability. The film may be included with your subscription or available for rental or purchase.
2. Rental/Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video: Rent or purchase A Perfect Day on Amazon Prime Video. Renting provides a 48-hour viewing window, while purchasing allows for unlimited streaming.
- Google Play Movies: Available for rent or purchase on Google Play Movies. Stream it on various devices, including Android phones and smart TVs.
- Apple TV (iTunes): Rent or buy A Perfect Day on Apple TV for seamless streaming across Apple devices.
- Vudu: Offers A Perfect Day for rent or purchase in high definition, providing excellent video and audio quality.
3. Other Platforms
- YouTube Movies: Rent or purchase A Perfect Day on YouTube Movies, accessible on a range of devices.
- Redbox On Demand: Available for rental on Redbox On Demand, allowing instant streaming without physical media.
Conclusion
A Perfect Day (2015) is a compelling dark comedy-drama that provides a unique perspective on the life of humanitarian workers in a war-torn environment. Directed by Fernando León de Aranoa, the film blends humor with poignant reflections on the impact of conflict, featuring strong performances from Benicio del Toro, Tim Robbins, Olga Kurylenko, and Pablo Schreiber.
With its exploration of the absurdities of war and the challenges faced by those who work to alleviate suffering, A Perfect Day offers an engaging and thought-provoking viewing experience.
You can stream A Perfect Day on Amazon Prime Video or find it for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies, Apple TV, Vudu, YouTube Movies, and Redbox On Demand.