A fatal plane crash changes the lives of Roman and Jake forever. Roman loses his wife and daughter in the accident, while Jake loses his mind—as he happens to be the air traffic controller who failed to avert the nightmare. Rage and revenge engulfs Roman and Jake finds himself swamped with guilt and regret.
Movie Review: Aftermath (2017) – A Gripping Tale of Loss and Vengeance
Introduction
“Aftermath,” directed by Elliott Lester, is a 2017 drama-thriller that explores the devastating effects of a tragic accident on two men’s lives. Starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Scoot McNairy, and Maggie Grace, this film offers a poignant and intense examination of grief, guilt, and retribution. In this review, we delve into the elements that make “Aftermath” a compelling and emotional watch and provide details on where you can stream it in the United States.
Plot Overview
“Aftermath” is inspired by the true story of a mid-air collision and its aftermath. The film follows Roman Melnyk (Arnold Schwarzenegger), a construction foreman whose wife and pregnant daughter are killed in a plane crash caused by an air traffic controller’s mistake. The air traffic controller, Jake Bonanos (Scoot McNairy), is immediately overwhelmed with guilt and fear, and his life begins to unravel. As Roman grapples with his overwhelming grief and the need for closure, he becomes determined to confront Jake. The film builds to a tense and emotional climax as both men’s lives intersect in the wake of the tragedy.
Visuals and Cinematography
Elliott Lester’s direction creates a somber and reflective atmosphere, using subdued lighting and intimate camera work to capture the emotional gravity of the story. The cinematography by Pieter Vermeer enhances the film’s introspective mood, employing close-up shots to emphasize the characters’ inner turmoil. The film’s visual style effectively conveys the weight of loss and the quiet desperation of the characters’ journeys.
Performances
Arnold Schwarzenegger delivers one of his most nuanced performances as Roman Melnyk, portraying a man broken by grief yet driven by a need for justice. His portrayal is both understated and powerful, allowing audiences to see a different side of the action star. Scoot McNairy is equally compelling as Jake Bonanos, capturing the character’s profound guilt and escalating fear. The supporting cast, including Maggie Grace as Christina, Jake’s wife, adds depth to the narrative, highlighting the far-reaching impact of the tragedy on those involved.
Themes and Interpretation
“Aftermath” explores themes of grief, guilt, and the search for redemption. The film delves into the emotional aftermath of a tragic event, examining how different individuals cope with loss and guilt. It raises questions about forgiveness and the human need for closure, highlighting the complexities of justice and retribution. Through Roman and Jake’s intertwined stories, the film underscores the devastating ripple effects of a single moment of negligence.
Streaming Availability in the U.S.
As of 2024, “Aftermath” is available for streaming on several platforms in the United States. You can watch “Aftermath” on:
- Amazon Prime Video
- Hulu
For those who prefer renting or purchasing, the film can be found on:
- Amazon Prime Video
- Apple iTunes
- Google Play Movies
- YouTube
- Vudu
Conclusion
“Aftermath” is a gripping and emotionally charged drama that showcases Arnold Schwarzenegger in a powerful and poignant role. With strong performances, particularly from Schwarzenegger and Scoot McNairy, and Elliott Lester’s thoughtful direction, the film offers a compelling exploration of grief and the quest for justice. Whether you’re streaming it for the first time or revisiting its intense narrative, “Aftermath” provides a profound and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
