Flesh + Blood (1985)

Flesh + Blood (1985) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online

Flesh + Blood (1985) is a historical action film directed by Paul Verhoeven, known for its gritty and unflinching depiction of medieval violence and intrigue. Starring Rutger Hauer, Jennifer Jason Leigh, and Tom Burlinson, the film offers a raw and unromanticized view of the medieval era, focusing on themes of power, betrayal, and survival.

In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, key performances, and thematic elements. We’ll also provide information on where you can stream or rent Flesh + Blood online in the U.S.

Plot Summary

Flesh + Blood is set in the late 16th century and follows a band of mercenaries led by the charismatic and ruthless Martin (Rutger Hauer). After a failed attempt to seize a castle, Martin and his men become outlaws and find themselves entangled in a complex web of revenge and power struggles.

The story unfolds as Martin kidnaps Princess Margaret (Jennifer Jason Leigh) and seeks to use her as leverage to reclaim his lost fortune and avenge his betrayal. The film portrays a brutal and harsh medieval world, where survival often depends on cunning, strength, and ruthlessness.

Key Characters and Performances

• Martin (Rutger Hauer)
  Rutger Hauer delivers a commanding performance as Martin, the leader of the mercenaries. Hauer’s portrayal captures the character’s blend of charisma, violence, and vulnerability, making him both a sympathetic and formidable figure.
• Princess Margaret (Jennifer Jason Leigh)
  Jennifer Jason Leigh plays Princess Margaret, the kidnapped royal whose fate is intertwined with Martin’s quest for revenge. Leigh’s performance adds depth to her character, portraying her struggle and resilience amidst the chaos.
• Steven (Tom Burlinson)
  Tom Burlinson appears as Steven, a rival mercenary and a key figure in the film’s power struggles. Burlinson’s role highlights the various alliances and conflicts that drive the narrative.
• Edmund (Jack Thompson)
  Jack Thompson portrays Edmund, a nobleman with his own interests and motivations. Thompson’s performance adds to the film’s political intrigue and complexity.

What to Expect from Flesh + Blood

Strengths

1. Intense Performances: Rutger Hauer delivers a powerful and nuanced performance as Martin, bringing depth to the character’s complex motivations. Jennifer Jason Leigh’s portrayal of Princess Margaret adds emotional weight to the film’s narrative.
2. Historical Grit: Flesh + Blood offers a gritty and unvarnished depiction of medieval life, with a focus on the harsh realities of the era. The film’s portrayal of violence and power struggles provides a raw and immersive experience.
3. Visual Style: Paul Verhoeven’s direction and the film’s cinematography contribute to its striking visual style. The use of period-accurate costumes, locations, and practical effects enhances the film’s historical authenticity and atmosphere.
4. Narrative Complexity: The film’s exploration of themes such as betrayal, revenge, and survival adds depth to its story. The intricate power dynamics and character interactions create a compelling and engaging narrative.

Weaknesses

1. Violent Content: The film’s graphic depiction of violence and brutality may be unsettling for some viewers. The intense and explicit scenes may not be suitable for all audiences and may limit the film’s appeal.
2. Character Development: While the film focuses on its main characters, some secondary characters may lack depth or development. This can affect the overall complexity of the narrative and the viewer’s connection to the story.
3. Pacing Issues: Certain sections of the film may feel slow or uneven, particularly in the buildup to key plot points. The pacing may affect the overall engagement for some viewers.

Direction and Cinematography

Paul Verhoeven’s direction brings a distinctive and unflinching approach to the film, capturing the brutality and intensity of its medieval setting. His ability to create a visceral and immersive experience enhances the film’s impact.

The cinematography, by Jost Vacano, complements the film’s tone with its use of dark and gritty visuals. The camera work and visual style contribute to the film’s atmosphere and historical authenticity.

Where to Watch Flesh + Blood Online in the U.S.

Streaming Services

Flesh + Blood is available for streaming on several platforms:

1. Amazon Prime Video
   • The film can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video. Rentals typically cost around $3.99, while purchases range from $9.99 to $14.99.
2. Apple TV+
   • Flesh + Blood is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV+, with rental prices typically around $3.99 and purchase options starting at $9.99.
3. Google Play Movies
   • The film can be rented or purchased on Google Play Movies, with rentals at $3.99 and purchases ranging from $9.99 to $14.99.
4. Vudu
   • Flesh + Blood is available for streaming on Vudu, with options for rent or purchase. Rentals are generally around $3.99, and purchases range from $9.99 to $14.99.

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 $14.99.

Physical Media

Flesh + Blood is available on DVD and Blu-ray, which can be purchased through major retailers such as Amazon and Walmart. Special editions may include bonus features such as behind-the-scenes content, interviews with the cast and crew, and commentary.

Conclusion

Flesh + Blood (1985) is a powerful and unflinching portrayal of medieval violence and intrigue, driven by strong performances from Rutger Hauer and Jennifer Jason Leigh. With its gritty depiction of the era and complex narrative, the film offers an intense and immersive experience. Available for streaming and digital rental or purchase, Flesh + Blood is a recommended choice for viewers interested in historical dramas and action films.