Double Jeopardy (1999)

Double Jeopardy (1999) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online

Double Jeopardy (1999), directed by Bruce Beresford, is a suspenseful thriller that combines elements of drama and crime. Starring Ashley Judd, Tommy Lee Jones, and Bruce Greenwood, the film explores themes of justice, revenge, and legal loopholes through a gripping and twist-filled narrative.

In this review, we’ll delve into the film’s plot, performances, and thematic elements. We’ll also provide information on where you can stream or rent Double Jeopardy online in the U.S.

Plot Summary

Double Jeopardy follows Libby Parsons (Ashley Judd), a woman wrongfully imprisoned for the murder of her husband, Nick Parsons (Bruce Greenwood). Libby is convicted and serves time in prison, only to discover that her husband is actually alive and living under a different identity. The twist? Due to the legal principle of double jeopardy, she cannot be tried again for the same crime, even if it’s later revealed that Nick is alive.

Upon her release, Libby is determined to track down her husband and seek revenge for the life that was stolen from her. As she embarks on her quest, she faces numerous challenges, including the pursuit of law enforcement and her own moral dilemmas.

Key Characters and Performances

• Ashley Judd as Libby Parsons
  Ashley Judd delivers a compelling performance as Libby Parsons, a woman driven by a quest for justice and revenge. Judd’s portrayal captures Libby’s strength, determination, and vulnerability as she navigates her challenging situation.
• Tommy Lee Jones as Travis Lehman
  Tommy Lee Jones plays Travis Lehman, a parole officer who becomes involved in Libby’s case. Jones’s performance adds a layer of complexity to the story, balancing his role as both an antagonist and a reluctant ally.
• Bruce Greenwood as Nick Parsons
  Bruce Greenwood portrays Nick Parsons, Libby’s supposedly deceased husband. Greenwood’s role is pivotal to the plot’s twists, and his performance effectively conveys the character’s deception and ulterior motives.
• Annabeth Gish as Angela Green
  Annabeth Gish plays Angela Green, Libby’s supportive friend and legal advocate. Gish’s performance adds a touch of warmth and support to the narrative, highlighting the importance of personal connections in Libby’s journey.

What to Expect from Double Jeopardy

Strengths

1. Engaging Plot: The film’s premise, based on the legal principle of double jeopardy, provides a unique and intriguing twist on the thriller genre. The plot’s progression keeps viewers engaged as Libby uncovers the truth and seeks justice.
2. Strong Performances: Ashley Judd delivers a standout performance, supported by Tommy Lee Jones and Bruce Greenwood. The cast’s performances add depth and authenticity to the film’s dramatic and suspenseful moments.
3. Suspenseful Narrative: The film maintains a high level of suspense throughout, with twists and turns that keep the audience guessing. The tension between Libby’s pursuit and the legal and personal obstacles she faces adds to the film’s intensity.
4. Well-Executed Direction: Bruce Beresford’s direction effectively balances the film’s dramatic and suspenseful elements, ensuring that the story remains engaging and emotionally resonant.

Weaknesses

1. Predictable Elements: Some viewers may find certain plot twists and developments predictable, particularly if they are familiar with the thriller genre.
2. Character Development: While the main characters are well-developed, some secondary characters may lack depth, focusing more on advancing the plot rather than on nuanced development.
3. Pacing Issues: The film’s pacing may feel uneven at times, with certain scenes dragging on or feeling less impactful compared to the film’s more intense moments.

Direction and Cinematography

Bruce Beresford’s direction ensures that the film remains engaging and suspenseful. His approach to the story and character development adds depth to the narrative, enhancing the film’s overall impact.

The cinematography, by Roger Pratt, complements the film’s suspenseful tone with dynamic camera work and visually compelling sequences. The use of location shooting and atmospheric visuals adds to the film’s sense of realism and tension.

Where to Watch Double Jeopardy Online in the U.S.

Streaming Services

Double Jeopardy is available for streaming on several platforms:

1. Amazon Prime Video
   • The film can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video. Renting typically costs around $3.99, while purchasing ranges from $9.99 to $12.99.
2. Apple iTunes
   • You can rent or purchase Double Jeopardy on Apple iTunes, with rentals priced around $3.99 and purchase options starting at $9.99.
3. Google Play Movies
   • The film is available for rent or purchase on Google Play Movies, with similar pricing: rentals at $3.99 and purchases ranging from $9.99 to $12.99.
4. Vudu
   • Double Jeopardy can be rented or purchased on Vudu, with rentals typically costing around $2.99 to $4.99 and purchases ranging from $9.99 to $12.99.
5. Hulu
   • The film is available to stream on Hulu. A subscription to Hulu is required to access the film.

Rental and Purchase Options

For additional rental and purchase options, you can also check:

• YouTube Movies
• Microsoft Store

Rental prices generally range from $2.99 to $4.99, with purchase options typically falling between $9.99 and $12.99.

Physical Media

Double Jeopardy is available on DVD and Blu-ray, which can be purchased through major retailers such as Amazon and Walmart. Physical copies may include special features like deleted scenes, behind-the-scenes content, and interviews with the cast and crew.

Conclusion

Double Jeopardy (1999) is a gripping thriller that combines legal intrigue and personal drama with strong performances and a suspenseful plot. With Ashley Judd leading a talented cast, the film offers an engaging and intense experience. Available for streaming on Hulu and for digital rental and purchase, Double Jeopardy is a compelling choice for fans of suspenseful dramas and legal thrillers.