Deliverance (1972) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
“Deliverance,” directed by John Boorman and released in 1972, is a seminal American thriller that has left an indelible mark on both cinema and popular culture. Based on the 1970 novel by James Dickey, who also wrote the screenplay, the film is a harrowing exploration of survival, masculinity, and the primal instincts that lie beneath the veneer of civilization. With its intense narrative, stunning cinematography, and unforgettable performances, Deliverance is a film that continues to resonate with audiences decades after its release.
Plot Overview
The story follows four Atlanta businessmen—Ed Gentry (Jon Voight), Lewis Medlock (Burt Reynolds), Bobby Trippe (Ned Beatty), and Drew Ballinger (Ronny Cox)—who embark on a weekend canoe trip down the Cahulawassee River in the remote wilderness of Georgia. What begins as a bonding adventure and escape from their urban lives quickly turns into a nightmare when they encounter the brutal realities of the wilderness and the violent, hostile locals who inhabit it.
After a terrifying confrontation with two mountain men, where Bobby is sexually assaulted and Drew is killed, the group is forced to confront their own fears and instincts as they fight for survival. The film’s tension is relentless, with the river itself becoming both a literal and symbolic force of nature that tests the men’s limits.
As the journey progresses, the men are forced to make morally ambiguous decisions that blur the line between right and wrong. The psychological toll of these events leaves them forever changed, and the film ends on a haunting note that suggests the consequences of their ordeal will linger long after they return to civilization.
Cinematography and Direction
One of the most striking aspects of Deliverance is its cinematography, masterfully executed by Vilmos Zsigmond. The film makes extensive use of natural light, and the dense, foreboding landscape of the Appalachian wilderness is captured in a way that emphasizes its beauty as well as its danger. The river, with its treacherous rapids and ominous stillness, becomes a character in its own right, symbolizing the unpredictability and indifference of nature.
John Boorman’s direction is taut and unflinching, creating a pervasive sense of dread that builds from the film’s opening moments. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the tension to mount gradually, and the film’s most harrowing scenes are shot with a raw, almost documentary-like realism that makes them all the more unsettling. Boorman’s decision to use local non-professional actors for the roles of the mountain men adds to the film’s authenticity and its disturbing sense of realism.
Themes and Character Development
Deliverance is a film that delves deeply into themes of masculinity, survival, and the primal instincts that lie beneath the surface of civilized behavior. The journey down the river becomes a metaphorical descent into a world where the social norms and moral codes of the men’s urban lives no longer apply. In this environment, they are stripped of their societal roles and forced to confront their own capacity for violence and moral compromise.
Each of the four main characters undergoes a significant transformation over the course of the film. Burt Reynolds’ Lewis starts as the confident, outdoorsman leader but is ultimately rendered helpless, revealing the fragility of his bravado. Jon Voight’s Ed, on the other hand, is the most introspective of the group, and his character arc is central to the film’s exploration of survival and moral ambiguity. By the end of the film, Ed emerges as the reluctant hero, though the cost of his actions weighs heavily on him.
Ned Beatty’s portrayal of Bobby, a man who experiences a traumatic assault, is both courageous and heartbreaking. The film does not shy away from the psychological impact of his ordeal, and Beatty’s performance brings a depth of vulnerability to the character. Ronny Cox’s Drew serves as the moral compass of the group, and his fate is a turning point in the story that underscores the film’s bleak outlook on the human condition.
Soundtrack and Iconic Scenes
The soundtrack of Deliverance is sparse, with the most memorable piece being the now-iconic “Dueling Banjos” scene. This impromptu musical duel between Drew and a local boy is one of the film’s few moments of levity, but it also foreshadows the tense and dangerous interactions that will follow. The banjo tune has since become synonymous with the film and is instantly recognizable to audiences.
Another standout scene is the harrowing assault on Bobby, a moment that shocked audiences at the time of the film’s release and remains one of the most disturbing sequences in cinema history. Boorman’s decision to film this scene with unflinching realism contributes to its lasting impact.
Where to Watch “Deliverance” Online
For those looking to experience or revisit Deliverance, several streaming options are available in the United States. The film can be found on various platforms, both for streaming and for digital purchase or rental.
- Streaming Services:
- HBO Max: Subscribers can stream “Deliverance” as part of HBO Max’s extensive library of classic films.
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for streaming with an Amazon Prime subscription. The film can also be purchased or rented through Amazon if you prefer to own a digital copy.
- Rental/Purchase Options:
- Apple iTunes: The movie is available for purchase or rental in HD on iTunes, allowing for a high-quality viewing experience on Apple devices.
- Google Play Movies: Similar to iTunes, Google Play offers the film for purchase or rental, making it accessible on a variety of devices.
- Vudu: Another platform where the film is available for digital rental or purchase, ensuring a clear and crisp viewing experience.
Conclusion
“Deliverance” is a film that has stood the test of time, remaining as powerful and provocative today as it was upon its release. Its exploration of human nature, the thin veneer of civilization, and the terrifying unpredictability of the natural world make it a compelling and thought-provoking watch. The film’s performances, particularly those of Jon Voight and Burt Reynolds, are outstanding, and its influence on the thriller genre is undeniable.
Whether you’re watching it for the first time or revisiting it, Deliverance offers a gripping and unsettling cinematic experience that challenges viewers to confront their own fears and assumptions about morality and survival. With various streaming and rental options available, it’s easy to access this classic film and immerse yourself in its intense, unforgettable journey.
