Gummo (1997) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Gummo (1997), directed by Harmony Korine, is a provocative and unconventional film that delves into the lives of a group of outcasts in a small, desolate town. Known for its stark imagery, nonlinear narrative, and unique style, Gummo offers a raw, unfiltered look at a community grappling with poverty, disconnection, and decay. The film’s experimental approach and disturbing content have made it a polarizing piece of cinema that challenges traditional storytelling.
In this review, we’ll explore the film’s key elements and provide guidance on where to stream Gummo online, especially for U.S. viewers.
Plot Summary: A Fragmented Portrait of Desolation
Gummo takes place in the fictional town of Xenia, Ohio, which was devastated by a tornado. The film offers a series of vignettes featuring various characters who live on the fringes of society. There is no central plot; instead, the film presents a fragmented, episodic narrative that paints a bleak portrait of life in this town.
The film follows several characters, including:
- Solomon (Jacob Reynolds): A teenage boy who spends his time collecting cans and exploring the town with his friend, Tummler (Nick Sutton). Solomon’s interactions with his family and the town’s other residents reveal a life filled with aimlessness and despair.
- Tummler (Nick Sutton): Solomon’s friend who engages in bizarre and sometimes violent behavior, contributing to the film’s unsettling atmosphere.
- Dot (Chloe Sevigny): A young woman who experiences her own struggles with identity and relationships in this environment.
The film’s style is highly unconventional, with a focus on capturing moments of raw, often disturbing reality. The narrative lacks a clear structure, and scenes are presented in a disjointed manner, emphasizing the disarray of the characters’ lives.
Themes: Poverty, Isolation, and Absurdity
At its core, Gummo explores themes of poverty, isolation, and the absurdity of life. The film offers a grim depiction of the effects of economic hardship on individuals and communities. The characters’ lives are marked by a sense of futility and disconnection, reflecting the larger social issues that contribute to their circumstances.
Korine’s portrayal of Xenia is both surreal and stark, highlighting the town’s desolation and the characters’ struggle to find meaning in their bleak surroundings. The film’s imagery is often grotesque and unsettling, emphasizing the absurdity and alienation experienced by the characters.
Gummo also challenges conventional notions of beauty and narrative structure. By presenting a series of disconnected vignettes, the film forces viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about society and human nature. The lack of a traditional plot allows the film to delve into themes in a more abstract and visceral manner.
Harmony Korine’s Unique Style: Experimental and Controversial
Harmony Korine’s direction in Gummo is highly experimental, characterized by its non-linear storytelling and unconventional visuals. The film is known for its use of amateur actors, unscripted scenes, and raw, unfiltered imagery. Korine’s style is both controversial and innovative, pushing the boundaries of traditional filmmaking.
The film’s aesthetic is defined by its gritty, lo-fi quality, with a focus on capturing the raw and unpolished aspects of life in Xenia. The use of handheld cameras, unsettling sound design, and jarring editing techniques contribute to the film’s unique and often disturbing atmosphere.
Korine’s approach to storytelling is designed to provoke a strong emotional reaction from viewers. By presenting a fragmented narrative and focusing on uncomfortable and taboo subjects, Gummo challenges audiences to engage with the film on a deeper, more visceral level.
Criticism: Polarizing and Unsettling
Gummo is a film that elicits strong reactions from audiences and critics alike. Its unconventional style and disturbing content have led to polarized opinions. Some viewers appreciate the film’s bold, experimental approach and its willingness to tackle uncomfortable subjects. Others find it off-putting and inaccessible, criticizing its lack of a coherent plot and its reliance on shock value.
The film’s portrayal of poverty and its use of provocative imagery can be difficult to watch, and its fragmented narrative may leave some viewers feeling disoriented. The lack of traditional character development and plot progression can make it challenging for audiences to connect with the film on a conventional level.
Despite these criticisms, Gummo has garnered a cult following and is regarded as an important work in the realm of independent and experimental cinema. Its impact on the genre and its ability to provoke thought and discussion contribute to its significance as a piece of art.
Why Gummo is Worth Watching
Gummo (1997) is a challenging and provocative film that offers a unique perspective on life in a small, devastated town. Its experimental approach and unconventional style make it a standout work in the realm of independent cinema. The film’s exploration of themes such as poverty, isolation, and absurdity is both thought-provoking and unsettling.
For viewers interested in avant-garde and experimental cinema, Gummo provides a raw and unfiltered look at the human condition. Its bold approach to storytelling and its willingness to confront uncomfortable truths make it a significant work that continues to resonate with audiences.
Where to Watch Gummo Online in the U.S.
Gummo is available for streaming, rental, and purchase on various platforms. Here are some options for U.S. viewers:
Streaming Services: Subscription Platforms
- Criterion Channel: Gummo is available on the Criterion Channel, which features a curated selection of classic and independent films. A subscription is required to access this platform.
- Hulu: The film may be available on Hulu, depending on current licensing agreements. Check the platform for its availability.
Rental and Purchase Options
For those looking to rent or buy Gummo, several digital platforms offer the film:
- Amazon Prime Video: The film can be rented for $3.99 or purchased for $12.99 in HD.
- Apple TV: On Apple TV, Gummo is available for rental at $3.99 and for purchase at $12.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: You can rent the film for $3.99 or purchase it for $12.99 on Google Play.
- YouTube Movies: YouTube Movies offers the film for rental at $3.99 or for purchase at $12.99.
- Vudu: On Vudu, Gummo is available for rental and purchase at similar prices.
Conclusion
Gummo (1997) is a provocative and experimental film that offers a raw, unfiltered look at life in a devastated town. Harmony Korine’s unconventional style and the film’s unsettling imagery make it a unique and challenging work of cinema. While it may not appeal to all viewers, its impact on independent and experimental film is significant.
With its availability on platforms like Criterion Channel and for rental or purchase on services such as Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV, Gummo is accessible for those interested in exploring its bold and controversial approach to storytelling.
