Hustlers (2019) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Hustlers (2019) is a crime drama film directed by Lorene Scafaria and inspired by a true story. The film stars Constance Wu, Jennifer Lopez, Julia Stiles, Keke Palmer, and Lili Reinhart. Set in the world of exotic dancing and financial manipulation, Hustlers offers a gritty yet glamorous look at the lives of a group of strippers who conspire to turn the tables on their wealthy clientele.
In this review, we’ll dive into the film’s plot, performances, themes, and where you can watch Hustlers online in the U.S.
Plot Summary: The Rise and Fall of the Hustlers
Hustlers follows the story of Destiny (Constance Wu), a struggling stripper who forms a close bond with Ramona (Jennifer Lopez), a seasoned dancer at the strip club where Destiny works. As they navigate the highs and lows of their profession, they devise a scheme to manipulate wealthy men who frequent their club.
The plot unfolds as the economic crash of 2008 hits, affecting the club’s business and their personal lives. Faced with financial hardship, Ramona and Destiny begin targeting high-rolling Wall Street clients, using various tactics to drain their accounts and live luxuriously. Their scheme involves a combination of drugging, stealing, and psychological manipulation, which allows them to exploit their clients’ greed and excess.
The film is told through Destiny’s perspective and includes flashbacks and interviews, adding layers to the narrative as it explores the moral and legal implications of their actions. As their operation grows more ambitious, the risks increase, leading to a dramatic unraveling of their carefully constructed world.
Performances: Constance Wu and Jennifer Lopez Shine
The performances in Hustlers are one of its strongest aspects, with Constance Wu and Jennifer Lopez delivering standout roles:
- Constance Wu: Wu plays Destiny, a character whose initial naivety evolves into a more complex understanding of her circumstances. Wu captures the emotional range of Destiny, from vulnerability to empowerment, making her journey both relatable and compelling.
- Jennifer Lopez: Lopez’s portrayal of Ramona is charismatic and commanding. Her performance is a blend of sensuality, strength, and vulnerability, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Lopez’s role earned significant acclaim and demonstrated her ability to anchor a film with a powerful, nuanced performance.
The supporting cast, including Julia Stiles, Keke Palmer, and Lili Reinhart, also contribute significantly to the film’s dynamic. Their characters add depth to the story and provide various perspectives on the central themes.
Themes: Empowerment, Exploitation, and Morality
Hustlers delves into several key themes:
- Empowerment: The film explores how the characters use their power and sexuality to gain financial independence and control over their lives. It presents their hustle as a form of empowerment in a society that often marginalizes them.
- Exploitation: The film also examines the darker side of empowerment, highlighting the exploitation of wealthy clients and the ethical boundaries crossed in the pursuit of financial gain. It raises questions about the morality of their actions and the impact on their victims.
- Survival: At its core, Hustlers is about survival in a tough economic climate. The characters’ actions are driven by a need to secure their futures and navigate the instability of their industry.
The film balances these themes with a narrative that blends drama, crime, and moments of humor, creating a multifaceted portrayal of its characters and their motivations.
Direction and Cinematography: A Stylish Presentation
Lorene Scafaria’s direction brings a stylish and engaging approach to Hustlers. The film combines glitzy visuals with a gritty realism, capturing the contrasting worlds of luxury and desperation.
- Cinematography: The cinematography by Todd Banhazl effectively captures the film’s tone, with vibrant club scenes and intimate, character-driven moments. The visual style enhances the film’s exploration of its themes, blending the allure of the strip club with the tension of their criminal enterprise.
- Direction: Scafaria’s direction ensures that the film maintains a compelling pace and dynamic energy. Her focus on character development and thematic depth adds layers to the narrative, making it more than just a story of crime and excess.
Where to Watch Hustlers Online
If you’re interested in watching Hustlers, here are the available streaming and rental options in the U.S.:
Streaming Services
- Hulu: Hustlers 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: Hustlers is available for rent or purchase on Amazon Video. Rental prices start at $3.99, with purchase options available for $12.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: You can rent or buy Hustlers 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: Hustlers can be rented or purchased on Vudu, with similar pricing to other platforms.
Why You Should Watch Hustlers (2019)
Hustlers offers a compelling and stylish look at the world of exotic dancing and financial manipulation. With strong performances from Constance Wu and Jennifer Lopez, a thought-provoking narrative, and a blend of glamour and grit, the film provides an engaging and nuanced portrayal of its characters and their struggles.
If you’re interested in crime dramas that explore themes of empowerment and exploitation, Hustlers is a film worth watching. Its dynamic storytelling and strong performances ensure that it stands out in the genre.
Final Thoughts
Hustlers combines a gripping story with standout performances and stylish direction. Its exploration of complex themes and the morally ambiguous actions of its characters make it a compelling watch. Whether you’re drawn to crime dramas, character studies, or films with strong female leads, Hustlers offers a memorable cinematic experience.
Ready to dive into the world of high-stakes hustling? Stream Hustlers on Hulu or explore other rental and purchase options to enjoy this engaging and stylish film.
