Hands of Stone (2016) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Hands of Stone (2016), directed by Jonathan Jakubowicz, is a biographical sports drama that chronicles the life of the legendary Panamanian boxer Roberto Durán. Starring Edgar Ramírez, Robert De Niro, and Usher Raymond, the film explores Durán’s rise to fame, his iconic bouts, and his personal struggles.
In this review, we’ll dive into the film’s plot, themes, performances, and provide information on where you can stream or purchase Hands of Stone online in the U.S.
Plot Overview: The Rise and Fall of Roberto Durán
Hands of Stone tells the story of Roberto Durán (Edgar Ramírez), a young and talented boxer from Panama who rises to become one of the most feared and respected fighters in the world. The film focuses on key moments in Durán’s career, including his training under the guidance of legendary trainer Ray Arcel (Robert De Niro) and his fierce rivalries in the boxing ring.
The plot delves into Durán’s personal life, highlighting his relationships with his family, his struggles with fame, and his battles both inside and outside the ring. The film covers significant events such as Durán’s fights with Sugar Ray Leonard and his eventual comeback, providing a comprehensive look at his complex life and career.
Performances: A Powerful Ensemble
The film features strong performances from its lead actors:
- Edgar Ramírez stars as Roberto Durán, delivering a compelling portrayal of the boxing legend. Ramírez captures Durán’s intensity and charisma, effectively bringing the character’s triumphs and tribulations to life.
- Robert De Niro plays Ray Arcel, Durán’s trainer, and mentor. De Niro’s performance adds depth to the film, portraying Arcel as a seasoned and wise figure who significantly impacts Durán’s career.
- Usher Raymond takes on the role of Sugar Ray Leonard, one of Durán’s most notable rivals. Usher’s performance is noteworthy, bringing authenticity and energy to the character of Leonard.
Supporting performances from Ruth Negga and Johan Ureña enhance the film, providing additional layers to Durán’s personal life and career.
Themes: Triumph, Struggle, and Redemption
Hands of Stone explores several key themes:
- Triumph and Fame: The film highlights Durán’s rise to boxing stardom, showcasing his skill, determination, and the challenges he faces as he achieves greatness. It offers an inspiring look at his successes and the impact of his career on the sport.
- Struggle and Personal Challenges: The film also delves into Durán’s personal struggles, including his battles with self-doubt, addiction, and the pressures of fame. It presents a nuanced view of the complexities of his life outside the ring.
- Redemption: Durán’s journey includes moments of redemption, particularly in his comeback efforts. The film portrays his resilience and determination to overcome setbacks and reclaim his place in the boxing world.
Direction and Visuals: A Dynamic Sports Drama
Jonathan Jakubowicz’s direction brings an energetic and engaging approach to Hands of Stone. Known for his work on films like Secuestro Express (2005), Jakubowicz captures the intensity of boxing matches and the emotional depth of Durán’s story.
The visual style of the film includes dynamic boxing sequences, with a focus on the physicality and strategy of the sport. The cinematography effectively conveys the high stakes of the matches and the personal stakes for Durán, enhancing the film’s overall impact.
Where to Watch Hands of Stone Online
If you’re interested in watching Hands of Stone, here are some options for streaming, renting, or purchasing the film online in the U.S.:
1. Streaming Services:
- Amazon Prime Video (with subscription): Hands of Stone may be available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video with a subscription. Check the platform for current availability.
- Hulu (with subscription): The film might also be available on Hulu with a subscription, providing another option for accessing Hands of Stone.
2. Rental Services:
For those who prefer to rent the film, several platforms offer it for a one-time rental fee:
- Amazon Prime Video: Rent Hands of Stone for $4.99 in HD, with 48 hours to watch after you start streaming.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rental at $4.99, allowing you to stream the film on various devices.
- Apple TV: Rent the movie for $4.99 in HD, with the option to watch on all Apple devices.
- Vudu: Offers the film for rent at $4.99, compatible with most streaming devices and smart TVs.
3. Purchase Options:
For those who want to own a copy of the film, it is available for purchase on various platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Purchase Hands of Stone for $14.99 in HD, available in your digital library.
- Apple TV: The film is available for purchase at $14.99, allowing for offline viewing on Apple devices.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Purchase the film for $14.99, with access across multiple devices.
- Vudu: Purchase Hands of Stone for $14.99, available for streaming on various platforms.
Final Thoughts: An Inspiring Sports Drama
Hands of Stone offers a compelling look at the life of Roberto Durán, blending intense boxing action with a personal and emotional narrative. With strong performances from Edgar Ramírez, Robert De Niro, and Usher Raymond, and dynamic direction from Jonathan Jakubowicz, the film provides an engaging and inspiring experience.
Whether you’re streaming on Amazon Prime Video or renting on Google Play, Hands of Stone is a must-watch for fans of sports dramas and boxing stories.
From streaming on Amazon Prime Video to renting on Google Play, Hands of Stone provides a powerful portrayal of Roberto Durán’s life and career. Its engaging story and strong performances make it a standout film in the sports drama genre.
