Handsome Devil (2016) Review: A Heartfelt Story of Friendship and Self-Discovery
Introduction
“Handsome Devil” (2016), directed by John Butler, is an Irish drama that combines elements of coming-of-age storytelling with a sharp critique of social norms and stereotypes. The film, starring Fionn O’Shea, Nicholas Galitzine, and Andrew Scott, offers a compelling narrative about friendship, identity, and the struggle to fit in within the confines of societal expectations. Known for its witty script and heartfelt performances, “Handsome Devil” provides a poignant exploration of teenage life and personal growth.
In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, themes, and performances, and provide information on where you can stream or purchase “Handsome Devil” online in the U.S.
Plot Overview
“Handsome Devil” centers around two teenage boys, Ned (Fionn O’Shea) and Conor (Nicholas Galitzine), who attend a prestigious all-boys boarding school in Ireland. Ned is an outsider who embraces his individuality, while Conor is a new student who quickly becomes the star rugby player and the center of attention.
The film’s narrative unfolds as Ned and Conor’s unlikely friendship develops amidst the pressures of school life and the rigid social hierarchy of the boarding school. Their bond challenges the norms and expectations imposed by their peers and the school’s administration.
As Ned and Conor navigate their personal struggles and societal pressures, they confront issues of identity, self-acceptance, and the impact of social stereotypes. The film’s storyline explores how their friendship helps them face their fears and grow as individuals.
Themes and Emotional Impact
“Handsome Devil” explores themes of identity, friendship, and the impact of societal expectations on personal growth. The film delves into the challenges of fitting in and the pressure to conform to social norms, particularly in the context of a competitive and rigid school environment.
The emotional impact of the film is heightened by its focus on the characters’ personal journeys and their struggle to embrace their true selves. The film’s portrayal of the friendship between Ned and Conor provides a touching and authentic examination of the ways in which relationships can support personal development and self-acceptance.
The film also addresses themes of bullying, self-esteem, and the search for belonging. It highlights the consequences of societal pressure and stereotypes on individuals and offers a hopeful message about the power of friendship and self-discovery.
Performances and Direction
Fionn O’Shea delivers a standout performance as Ned, capturing the character’s complexity and vulnerability with skill. O’Shea’s portrayal of Ned’s struggles and personal growth adds depth to the film and provides a strong emotional core.
Nicholas Galitzine provides a compelling performance as Conor, bringing charm and authenticity to the role. Galitzine’s portrayal of Conor’s journey from a star athlete to a more self-aware individual complements O’Shea’s performance and enhances the film’s dynamic.
Andrew Scott delivers a notable performance as the school’s English teacher, Mr. Sherry. Scott’s portrayal adds a layer of mentorship and support to the film’s narrative, highlighting the importance of positive role models in the characters’ lives.
John Butler’s direction is effective in creating a heartfelt and engaging experience. Butler’s approach to storytelling combines humor, drama, and character-driven moments, resulting in a film that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The screenplay, written by John Butler, is well-crafted and engaging. The dialogue and character development effectively support the film’s themes and contribute to its overall emotional impact. The script’s blend of humor and drama adds depth to the story and enhances its resonance.
Cinematography and Music
The cinematography by John Conroy is notable for its use of vibrant and expressive visuals. Conroy’s work enhances the film’s emotional and thematic elements, creating a visually engaging experience that complements the narrative.
The film’s score, composed by Stephen McKeon, adds to its emotional depth and atmosphere. McKeon’s music reinforces the film’s themes of friendship and personal growth, contributing to the overall viewing experience.
Where to Watch “Handsome Devil” Online in the U.S.
For those interested in watching “Handsome Devil,” several streaming services and platforms in the United States offer the film for streaming, rental, or purchase:
Streaming Services:
- Amazon Prime Video: “Handsome Devil” is available to stream with an Amazon Prime subscription. It is part of Amazon Prime’s library of international films and series.
Rental and Purchase Options:
- Amazon Prime Video: You can rent “Handsome Devil” in HD for approximately $3.99 or purchase it for around $14.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: The film is available for rent or purchase on Google Play, with rental options starting at $3.99 and purchase prices around $14.99.
- Apple iTunes: On iTunes, “Handsome Devil” can be rented for $3.99 or purchased for $14.99. The film is available in HD, with the option to download for offline viewing.
- Vudu: Vudu offers both rental and purchase options for “Handsome Devil,” with similar pricing to other platforms. The film supports HDX viewing for high-quality playback.
Conclusion
“Handsome Devil” (2016) is a heartfelt and engaging film that combines coming-of-age drama with a sharp critique of social norms. With its strong performances, touching narrative, and exploration of themes related to identity and friendship, the film offers a compelling and thought-provoking viewing experience.
Whether you are drawn to its exploration of teenage life, its portrayal of friendship, or its critique of societal expectations, “Handsome Devil” delivers a memorable and emotionally resonant cinematic experience. With various streaming and rental options available, it’s easy to access this poignant film and enjoy its blend of humor and drama.
