Heavy Metal (1981) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Heavy Metal (1981) is an animated science fiction film directed by Gerald Potterton and produced by Ivan Reitman. Known for its unique blend of animation styles, dark fantasy elements, and heavy metal music, this cult classic has gained a devoted following over the decades. The film features a series of interconnected stories, each revolving around the theme of a mysterious, malevolent green orb known as the Loc-Nar.
In this review, we’ll delve into the film’s plot, its distinctive animation style, its soundtrack, and where you can watch Heavy Metal online in the U.S.
Plot Summary: An Anthology of Dark Fantasies
Heavy Metal is structured as an anthology film, comprising multiple short stories that are linked by the central narrative of the Loc-Nar, a glowing green orb with the power to corrupt and destroy. Each story features different characters and settings, ranging from futuristic dystopias to ancient fantasy worlds.
- “Soft Landing”: The film opens with a young woman finding the Loc-Nar, which unleashes a series of events leading to a journey through various realms.
- “Grimaldi”: A tale about a stuntman who gets entangled with a rogue spaceship and must confront the evil powers of the Loc-Nar.
- “Den”: Follows a nerdy teenager who is magically transported to a fantastical world where he becomes a powerful hero, battling evil forces.
- “Captain Sternn”: Features a corrupt space captain who faces judgment and encounters the wrath of the Loc-Nar.
- “B-17”: A horror-tinged story set on a World War II bomber aircraft haunted by the Loc-Nar’s influence.
- “So Beautiful and So Dangerous”: A humorous segment about a UFO’s mishap and its consequences on a corporate world.
- “Taarna”: The film’s final and most celebrated segment, tells the story of Taarna, a fierce warrior tasked with saving her land from a gang of marauders empowered by the Loc-Nar.
The stories are united by their thematic elements and the overarching influence of the Loc-Nar, creating a dark and fantastical journey through a variety of genres and settings.
Animation Style: A Fusion of Techniques
Heavy Metal stands out for its diverse animation styles, which range from traditional hand-drawn techniques to experimental and psychedelic visuals. The film showcases a variety of artistic approaches, each tailored to fit the tone and setting of the individual stories.
- Traditional Animation: Many segments use classic animation techniques, with detailed backgrounds and character designs that evoke a sense of depth and immersion.
- Psychedelic Art: Some segments incorporate psychedelic visuals and abstract imagery, reflecting the heavy metal influence and enhancing the film’s otherworldly atmosphere.
- Rotoscope: Certain sequences employ rotoscope techniques, where animators trace over live-action footage to achieve more realistic movement and effects.
The eclectic animation styles contribute to the film’s unique and distinctive visual identity, making it a visually stimulating experience that complements its dark and fantastical themes.
Soundtrack: A Heavy Metal Masterpiece
The soundtrack of Heavy Metal is one of its defining features, featuring a collection of iconic heavy metal and rock tracks. The music plays a crucial role in setting the film’s tone and enhancing its atmosphere. Some of the notable bands and artists featured on the soundtrack include:
- Black Sabbath
- Blue Öyster Cult
- Devo
- Journey
- Sammy Hagar
The soundtrack is celebrated for its contribution to the film’s edgy and rebellious spirit. The heavy metal tracks add to the film’s overall energy and complement the high-octane visuals and narratives.
Themes: Corruption, Power, and Redemption
Heavy Metal explores themes of corruption, power, and redemption through its various stories. The Loc-Nar serves as a symbol of malevolent power and the destructive potential of absolute corruption. Each story examines how the characters interact with this power, from battling evil forces to confronting personal demons.
The film’s portrayal of these themes is often dark and surreal, reflecting the heavy metal aesthetic and the influence of the genre on its narrative and visual style. The stories range from epic battles and heroic quests to psychological horror and satire, providing a multifaceted exploration of its central themes.
Where to Watch Heavy Metal Online
If you’re interested in watching Heavy Metal, here are the available streaming and rental options in the U.S.:
Streaming Services
- Hulu: Heavy Metal is available to stream on Hulu for subscribers.
- Amazon Prime Video: The film can be streamed with an Amazon Prime subscription or rented/purchased through Amazon Video.
Rental and Purchase Options
- Amazon Video: Heavy Metal is available for rent or purchase. Rental prices start at $3.99, with purchase options available for $12.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: The film can be rented or bought on Google Play. Rental prices start at $3.99, with purchases available for $12.99.
- Apple iTunes: The movie is available for rent at $3.99 or for purchase at $12.99 on iTunes.
- Vudu: Heavy Metal can be rented or purchased on Vudu, with pricing similar to other platforms.
Why You Should Watch Heavy Metal (1981)
Heavy Metal is a visually and aurally striking film that offers a unique blend of animation, fantasy, and heavy metal music. Its anthology format allows for a diverse range of stories and artistic styles, making it a standout in the genre of animated films.
If you’re a fan of dark fantasy, heavy metal music, or experimental animation, Heavy Metal is a film that provides a memorable and immersive experience. Its distinctive style, compelling soundtrack, and exploration of themes related to power and corruption make it a cult classic worth watching.
Final Thoughts
Heavy Metal remains a significant and influential film in the world of animation and fantasy. Its combination of innovative animation techniques, a powerful soundtrack, and intriguing stories ensures that it continues to captivate audiences. Whether you’re a fan of heavy metal or simply appreciate unique and imaginative storytelling, Heavy Metal offers a distinctive cinematic experience.
Ready to dive into a world of dark fantasies and heavy metal? Stream Heavy Metal on Hulu or check out other rental and purchase options to enjoy this classic animated film.
