Eat Pray Love (2010) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Eat Pray Love (2010), directed by Ryan Murphy, is a film adaptation of Elizabeth Gilbert’s bestselling memoir of the same name. Starring Julia Roberts as Liz Gilbert, the film takes the audience on a journey of self-discovery across three countries—Italy, India, and Indonesia—as the protagonist seeks to heal from a painful divorce and find balance in her life. This soul-searching adventure is filled with picturesque landscapes, emotional moments, and reflections on life, love, and spirituality.
In this review, we’ll explore the film’s key themes, performances, visual appeal, and where you can stream or rent Eat Pray Love online in the U.S.
Overview of Eat Pray Love (2010)
Eat Pray Love follows the true story of Liz Gilbert, a woman who seemingly has it all—a successful career as a writer, a home, and a loving husband. However, despite her outwardly perfect life, Liz feels disconnected and unfulfilled. After her marriage falls apart, she embarks on a year-long journey to rediscover herself and seek deeper meaning in life.
Her journey is divided into three parts:
- Italy (Eat) – Liz indulges in the pleasures of food and learns the art of living in the moment.
- India (Pray) – Liz dedicates herself to meditation and spiritual growth, seeking inner peace at an ashram.
- Bali, Indonesia (Love) – Liz finds balance and opens her heart to the possibility of love once again.
Throughout her travels, Liz encounters a diverse cast of characters who guide and challenge her along the way. The film explores themes of personal growth, the search for happiness, and the importance of self-care.
Plot Summary
The film begins with Liz Gilbert (Julia Roberts) realizing that she is deeply unhappy in her marriage. She feels trapped by societal expectations and the pressure to live a conventional life, leading to a painful divorce from her husband, Stephen (Billy Crudup). Feeling lost and unsure of her next steps, Liz embarks on a year-long journey around the world, hoping to find healing and clarity.
Her first stop is Italy, where she immerses herself in the culture of food, language, and the joy of simply “being.” She befriends locals, eats her way through the streets of Rome, and gradually rediscovers the simple pleasures of life. In Italy, Liz’s focus is on learning to nourish herself, both physically and emotionally, after years of feeling depleted.
Next, Liz travels to India, where she spends time at an ashram in search of spiritual enlightenment. Here, she struggles with the challenges of meditation and self-reflection but gradually comes to understand the power of forgiveness and inner peace. She befriends a fellow traveler, Richard (Richard Jenkins), who helps her navigate the emotional weight of her past and her desire for growth.
Finally, Liz arrives in Bali, Indonesia, where she meets a wise healer named Ketut (Hadi Subiyanto) and befriends a local woman named Wayan (Christine Hakim). It is in Bali that Liz reconnects with her heart and her ability to love again, particularly after meeting Felipe (Javier Bardem), a charming Brazilian who opens her up to the possibility of a new romantic relationship.
The film culminates in Liz’s realization that true happiness comes from within and that love, whether it’s for oneself or others, is a fundamental part of living a fulfilled life.
What Makes Eat Pray Love Stand Out
1. Julia Roberts’ Captivating Performance
At the heart of Eat Pray Love is Julia Roberts’ performance as Liz Gilbert. Roberts, known for her ability to portray deeply empathetic and relatable characters, shines in this role. Her portrayal of Liz’s emotional journey—from the depths of despair to the joy of self-discovery—feels authentic and heartfelt. Roberts captures the nuances of Liz’s struggles with loneliness, identity, and the search for meaning, making the audience root for her at every step.
The film’s success largely rests on Roberts’ ability to carry the story with her charm and sincerity. Her interactions with the supporting cast, particularly Richard Jenkins and Javier Bardem, add depth to the film’s exploration of relationships and personal growth.
2. Beautiful Cinematography and Travel Vibes
One of the film’s most memorable aspects is its breathtaking cinematography. Shot on location in Italy, India, and Bali, Eat Pray Love offers stunning visuals that transport the audience to each of these distinct places. From the vibrant streets of Rome and the serene landscapes of India to the lush beauty of Bali, the film captures the essence of each location.
Italy is depicted as a sensory feast, filled with vibrant colors, rich foods, and lively people. The scenes in India, by contrast, are more subdued, reflecting the meditative nature of Liz’s journey there. Bali is presented as a tropical paradise, offering a sense of healing and balance.
The cinematography not only adds to the film’s aesthetic appeal but also reinforces the theme of finding beauty and meaning in life’s experiences.
3. Universal Themes of Self-Discovery and Healing
While Eat Pray Love is based on one woman’s personal story, its themes resonate with a broader audience. The film delves into the universal quest for happiness, fulfillment, and the courage to break free from societal expectations. Liz’s decision to leave behind her familiar life in search of something more reflects the desires many people feel when they are stuck or unfulfilled.
The film’s exploration of self-care, spirituality, and the power of travel to transform and heal makes it particularly appealing to anyone who has ever felt the need for a fresh start or a deeper connection to themselves.
4. Strong Supporting Cast
The film’s supporting cast adds depth and variety to Liz’s journey. Richard Jenkins gives a standout performance as Richard, a fellow traveler at the ashram in India who shares his own heartbreaking story of loss and redemption. His scenes with Roberts are some of the most emotionally resonant in the film.
Javier Bardem, as Felipe, brings warmth and charisma to his role as Liz’s love interest in Bali. His chemistry with Roberts is palpable, and their relationship feels natural and grounded, offering a refreshing take on romance after Liz’s period of self-reflection and growth.
Additionally, Hadi Subiyanto’s portrayal of the wise and eccentric healer Ketut provides moments of levity and wisdom throughout Liz’s time in Bali.
Criticism and Reception
While Eat Pray Love was well-received by fans of the book and those who enjoy travel-based films, it garnered mixed reviews from critics. Some felt that the film was too long and that its pacing dragged, particularly in the second act during Liz’s time in India. Others criticized the film for being overly sentimental or superficial in its portrayal of Liz’s spiritual journey.
However, for viewers who appreciate visually stunning films with a focus on self-exploration and emotional growth, Eat Pray Love offers a satisfying cinematic experience. Its messages about the importance of taking time for oneself and embracing change resonate with many, particularly those who have gone through periods of transition in their own lives.
Where to Watch Eat Pray Love Online
If you’re looking to watch Eat Pray Love (2010) in the U.S., there are several streaming and rental options available:
1. Streaming Platforms
- Netflix: Eat Pray Love is often available on Netflix. If you’re a subscriber, you can stream the movie directly on the platform, though availability may vary depending on your region.
- Hulu: The film may also be available on Hulu, either through its regular library or as part of the Starz add-on.
2. Rental and Purchase Options
For those who prefer to rent or purchase the movie, Eat Pray Love is available on the following digital platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: You can rent or buy Eat Pray Love on Amazon Prime Video, with options for HD and standard definition streaming.
- Apple TV: The film is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV, making it accessible across all Apple devices or via the Apple TV app.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Google Play offers the option to rent or purchase the film, allowing you to watch it on Android devices, Chromecast, or through a web browser.
- YouTube Movies: YouTube also provides rental and purchase options for the movie, making it accessible on a variety of devices.
3. DVD/Blu-ray
For fans of physical media, Eat Pray Love is available on DVD and Blu-ray. This version often includes bonus features such as behind-the-scenes footage, interviews with the cast, and director’s commentary.
Final Thoughts: A Beautiful Journey of Self-Discovery
Eat Pray Love (2010) is a visually stunning, emotionally resonant film that takes viewers on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and personal growth. While its pacing and sentimentality may not appeal to everyone, it remains a heartfelt exploration of what it means to take control of one’s life and seek happiness on one’s own terms.
Whether you’re drawn to its themes of spirituality and healing, its star-studded cast led by Julia Roberts, or its gorgeous depiction of three distinct cultures, Eat Pray Love is a film that will leave you reflecting on your own journey. Streaming it on Netflix or renting it on Amazon Prime Video provides a perfect way to escape into a world of food, meditation, and love.
