“Assassin’s Creed” (2016) Movie Review: A Visually Stunning Yet Flawed Adaptation
Introduction
“Assassin’s Creed,” a 2016 action-adventure film directed by Justin Kurzel, is an adaptation of the popular video game series by Ubisoft. Starring Michael Fassbender, Marion Cotillard, and Jeremy Irons, the movie promised to bring the thrilling world of the Assassins and Templars to the big screen. This review examines the film’s strengths and weaknesses and provides information on where to stream or rent it in the United States.
Plot Summary
The film follows Callum Lynch (Michael Fassbender), a death row inmate who is saved by the mysterious Abstergo Industries. Through a revolutionary technology called the Animus, Callum is sent back to the 15th-century Spain to relive the memories of his ancestor, Aguilar de Nerha, a member of the Assassin Brotherhood. As Callum experiences Aguilar’s life, he uncovers secrets that could help the Assassins thwart the Templars in the present day.
Performance and Direction
Michael Fassbender delivers a compelling performance as both Callum and Aguilar, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Marion Cotillard and Jeremy Irons provide strong support, though their characters sometimes feel underdeveloped. Director Justin Kurzel creates a visually captivating world, with beautifully choreographed action sequences and impressive historical settings. However, the film struggles with pacing and narrative coherence, often sacrificing character development for action.
Cinematography and Soundtrack
“Assassin’s Creed” excels in its visual presentation. The cinematography, helmed by Adam Arkapaw, captures the gritty, atmospheric tone of the game series. The historical sequences set in Spain are particularly striking, with meticulous attention to detail in the costumes and set design. The soundtrack, composed by Jed Kurzel, complements the film’s intensity and enhances the overall viewing experience.
Streaming Availability
In the United States, “Assassin’s Creed” is available for streaming on several platforms. You can watch it on Disney+ with a subscription. The film is also available on HBO Max, providing another option for subscribers.
Rental and Purchase Options
For those who prefer to rent or purchase “Assassin’s Creed,” the film is accessible on multiple major platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Rent or buy in HD and SD.
- iTunes: Rent or buy with options for HD.
- Google Play: Rent or buy in HD and SD.
- YouTube Movies: Rent or buy in HD and SD.
- Vudu: Rent or buy in HDX, HD, and SD.
Conclusion
“Assassin’s Creed” offers a visually stunning experience that captures the essence of its source material but falls short in terms of storytelling and character development. Fans of the video game series may appreciate the film’s faithful recreation of the Assassins’ world, while newcomers might find it challenging to follow the convoluted plot. Despite its flaws, “Assassin’s Creed” is worth a watch for its action sequences and visual spectacle.
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