Bean (1997) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
“Bean” (1997) is a comedy film that takes the beloved Mr. Bean character, portrayed by Rowan Atkinson, and places him in a full-length feature film. Mr. Bean, originally known for his television sketches, is a bumbling yet endearing man who often finds himself in hilarious situations due to his clumsy nature. The film stays true to the spirit of the original character while giving him a broader, more elaborate storyline. In this review, we’ll discuss the plot, performances, and where you can stream or rent “Bean” online in the United States.
Plot Overview
The movie follows Mr. Bean, a security guard working at the prestigious National Gallery in London. The gallery’s directors, wanting to rid themselves of Bean due to his incompetence, arrange for him to accompany a priceless painting, Whistler’s Mother, to an art gallery in Los Angeles. Bean is mistakenly identified as a distinguished art expert, and chaos ensues when he arrives in the U.S.
The beauty of Bean lies in its simplicity. The plot doesn’t delve into complex themes, but rather embraces the charm and slapstick humor of Rowan Atkinson’s iconic character. The movie is filled with Bean’s classic antics—such as his attempts to repair Whistler’s Mother after a mishap—and brings his awkward, nonverbal humor to new heights. His misadventures resonate with audiences who appreciate physical comedy and universal humor that transcends language barriers.
Performances
Rowan Atkinson shines as Mr. Bean, reprising his role with the same energy and timing that made the character famous. Atkinson’s ability to convey emotion, frustration, and confusion without much dialogue is remarkable. He perfectly captures the essence of the bumbling yet lovable Mr. Bean.
The supporting cast, including Peter MacNicol as the art gallery curator David Langley, adds depth to the film. MacNicol plays the straight man to Bean’s chaos, and his reactions to Bean’s missteps heighten the comedic tension. Pamela Reed also delivers a solid performance as David’s wife, whose growing frustration with Bean provides some of the film’s more grounded moments.
Bean’s Enduring Appeal
Even though Bean is over two decades old, its humor remains timeless. The film capitalizes on physical comedy rather than wordplay, making it accessible to a global audience. Unlike many comedies that rely on cultural references or trends, the humor in Bean is universal, appealing to both children and adults. The film doesn’t try to overcomplicate Mr. Bean’s character; instead, it sticks to what works—the pure, slapstick comedy that made the TV show a hit.
While the movie received mixed reviews upon its release, it has since garnered a cult following. Fans of the original Mr. Bean series will appreciate the transition of their favorite character to the big screen, and new audiences will find it to be a charming introduction to his antics.
Where to Watch “Bean” (1997) Online
As of 2024, there are multiple ways to watch Bean online, especially for viewers in the United States. Depending on your preference, you can either stream the movie, rent it, or purchase it on various platforms. Here’s a breakdown of where to find the movie:
Streaming Services
- Hulu – Bean (1997) is available to stream on Hulu. You’ll need a subscription, but Hulu often offers free trials for new users, so you might be able to watch it without additional cost for a limited time.
- Amazon Prime Video – The movie is also available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video, where subscribers can watch it for free. If you’re not a Prime member, you can still rent or purchase the movie on this platform.
- HBO Max – Another option for streaming is HBO Max. With a monthly subscription, you can access Bean along with a wide variety of other popular films and TV shows.
- Peacock – Some regions in the U.S. might also have access to Bean through Peacock’s streaming service, though availability may vary depending on your location.
Rental and Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video – In addition to being a streaming option for subscribers, Bean is available to rent or purchase. Renting the movie typically costs around $3.99, while purchasing it digitally costs approximately $14.99.
- Apple iTunes – If you’re more familiar with Apple’s ecosystem, Bean is available for rent or purchase on iTunes. The price for renting usually starts at $3.99, and buying the movie can cost up to $14.99.
- Google Play Movies – Another reliable option for renting or purchasing is Google Play Movies. Pricing is comparable to other platforms, with rentals starting at $3.99 and purchases around $14.99.
- Vudu – This platform also offers Bean for rent or purchase. Renting is again priced at about $3.99, with the option to purchase the movie for $14.99.
Why Watch “Bean” Today?
Watching Bean in today’s world is like taking a nostalgic trip back to the late ’90s, when physical comedy was still at the forefront of mainstream humor. It’s refreshing to see a film that relies on clever slapstick and awkward social interactions rather than crude jokes or modern satire. The simplicity of Bean’s character—his childlike innocence and unintentional chaos—offers a much-needed break from the fast-paced, plot-heavy films of today.
While Bean might not be a critical darling, it certainly has its place in comedy history. Whether you’re revisiting it for nostalgic reasons or watching it for the first time, you’re sure to appreciate Rowan Atkinson’s brilliant performance and the film’s lighthearted humor.
Conclusion
Bean (1997) is a delightful comedy that brings Mr. Bean’s eccentric character to a larger stage. With physical humor that transcends language and cultural boundaries, it’s a film that can be enjoyed by audiences of all ages. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Mr. Bean or new to his antics, the movie offers plenty of laughs and memorable moments.
For those in the U.S., Bean is readily available on a variety of streaming services such as Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and HBO Max, and can also be rented or purchased through platforms like iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu. So, grab some popcorn and enjoy the quirky adventures of Mr. Bean today!
