Allied (2016) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Allied (2016) is a World War II romantic thriller directed by Robert Zemeckis and starring Brad Pitt and Marion Cotillard. The film combines espionage, romance, and wartime drama, set against the backdrop of one of history’s most tumultuous periods. With its blend of intrigue and romance, Allied offers a gripping cinematic experience. In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, characters, and themes, and guide you on where to stream or rent it online, especially in the U.S.
Plot Overview: Love and Espionage in World War II
Allied centers around Max Vatan (Brad Pitt), a Canadian intelligence officer stationed in North Africa during World War II. During a mission, Max encounters Marianne Beausejour (Marion Cotillard), a French Resistance fighter. The two join forces and embark on a dangerous operation to assassinate a high-ranking German official. Their mission’s success is followed by a passionate romance, leading to marriage and a family life in London.
However, their idyllic life is soon disrupted when Max receives shocking news that Marianne may be a German spy. The revelation throws Max into a whirlwind of doubt and betrayal, forcing him to navigate a complex web of espionage and personal conflict. The tension escalates as he must uncover the truth about Marianne’s allegiance while grappling with his own emotions and the dangers of wartime deception.
The film blends elements of a classic romance with the high-stakes drama of espionage, creating a narrative filled with suspense, emotional depth, and historical context.
Characters and Performances
Max Vatan (Brad Pitt)
Brad Pitt stars as Max Vatan, a skilled intelligence officer whose personal and professional lives become entangled. Pitt’s performance captures Max’s internal struggle and emotional turmoil as he grapples with the possibility of his wife being a spy. His portrayal is marked by a blend of charm and vulnerability, making Max a compelling and sympathetic character.
Marianne Beausejour (Marion Cotillard)
Marion Cotillard plays Marianne Beausejour, a French Resistance fighter with a mysterious past. Cotillard brings depth and complexity to the role, portraying Marianne as both strong and enigmatic. Her performance is pivotal to the film’s emotional core, as she navigates her dual identity and the strain it places on her relationship with Max.
Supporting Cast
The supporting cast includes a range of characters that add depth to the film’s espionage and romantic elements. Notable performances include:
- Jared Harris as Frank Heslop, Max’s colleague and confidant.
- Simon McBurney as Dr. Marcel, an associate involved in the investigation.
- Lizzy Caplan as Sylvia, a friend and colleague of Max’s.
Each supporting role contributes to the film’s tension and adds layers to the main narrative.
Direction and Cinematography
Robert Zemeckis, known for his work in films like Forrest Gump and Back to the Future, brings his signature storytelling style to Allied. The film’s direction combines historical accuracy with a romantic thriller’s flair, capturing the era’s atmosphere and the characters’ emotional journey.
The cinematography, handled by Don Burgess, is visually striking. The film’s period settings are meticulously crafted, from the sandy landscapes of North Africa to the bustling streets of London during the war. The attention to detail in the set design and costumes enhances the film’s authenticity and immerses viewers in the 1940s.
The action sequences and suspenseful moments are well-executed, blending seamlessly with the film’s romantic elements. Zemeckis’s direction ensures that both the espionage and love story aspects are compelling and engaging.
Themes: Love, Betrayal, and Identity
Allied explores several themes central to its narrative:
Love and Betrayal
At its core, Allied is a story about love and the impact of betrayal. The film examines how personal relationships are tested under the strain of wartime secrecy and deception. Max and Marianne’s love is portrayed as both passionate and fragile, with their trust in each other being put to the ultimate test.
Identity and Deception
The theme of identity is crucial to the film, particularly in relation to Marianne’s potential duplicity. The film delves into the complexities of personal identity and how it can be obscured by external circumstances. Max’s quest for the truth about Marianne raises questions about trust and the nature of deception.
Wartime Tension
The backdrop of World War II adds a layer of tension and urgency to the story. The film explores how the global conflict influences individual lives and relationships, highlighting the personal cost of espionage and war.
Reception and Legacy
Allied received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised the film’s performances, direction, and production values. Brad Pitt and Marion Cotillard’s chemistry was particularly noted, as was the film’s ability to balance romance with suspenseful drama. However, some critics felt that the plot’s twists were predictable and that the film occasionally struggled to maintain momentum.
Despite these critiques, Allied is recognized for its strong performances and its engaging blend of romance and espionage. It remains a notable entry in the genre, showcasing Zemeckis’s skill in blending historical drama with personal storytelling.
Where to Watch Allied (2016) Online
For those interested in watching Allied, here’s where you can find it:
Streaming Services
- Hulu: Allied is available for streaming on Hulu. Subscribers can watch the film as part of their Hulu membership.
- HBO Max: The film is also available on HBO Max, providing another option for streaming.
Rental and Purchase Options
If you prefer to rent or purchase Allied, consider the following platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: You can rent or purchase Allied on Amazon Prime Video. Rentals typically start at $3.99, with purchase options around $14.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rent or purchase on Google Play, with rentals starting at $3.99 and purchases around $14.99.
- Apple TV/iTunes: Allied can be rented or purchased through Apple TV, with similar pricing to other digital platforms.
- Vudu: Offers rental and purchase options, starting at $3.99 for rentals and $14.99 for purchases.
Conclusion: A Compelling Blend of Romance and Espionage
Allied (2016) offers a compelling mix of romance and espionage set against the dramatic backdrop of World War II. With strong performances from Brad Pitt and Marion Cotillard, effective direction by Robert Zemeckis, and a visually engaging presentation, the film is an enjoyable watch for fans of historical dramas and romantic thrillers. Whether you choose to stream it on Hulu or HBO Max or rent it from digital platforms, Allied provides an intriguing and emotional cinematic experience.
