In the House (2012) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
In the House (original title: Dans la maison) is a French psychological drama-thriller directed by François Ozon, released in 2012. This intriguing film explores the complex relationships between a teacher and his student, delving into themes of voyeurism, storytelling, and the blurred lines between reality and fiction. With its sharp script, exceptional performances, and thought-provoking narrative, In the House has garnered critical acclaim and is a must-watch for fans of cerebral cinema. In this review, we’ll discuss the film’s plot, key elements, and where you can watch In the House online.
Plot Overview
The story centers on Germain (Fabrice Luchini), a jaded high school literature teacher who has grown disillusioned with his students’ lack of interest in writing. However, his attitude changes when he reads an essay by one of his students, Claude Garcia (Ernst Umhauer), a 16-year-old with a remarkable gift for storytelling. Claude’s essay, a voyeuristic account of his visit to a classmate’s house, immediately captivates Germain’s attention.
The essay describes how Claude befriends Rapha Artole (Bastien Ughetto), a seemingly average student, to gain access to his home and observe the dynamics of a middle-class family. Claude’s writing is both insightful and disturbing, revealing his fascination with the domestic life of the Artole family—particularly Rapha’s mother, Esther (Emmanuelle Seigner). As Claude continues to write, Germain becomes increasingly obsessed with his student’s narrative, encouraging him to keep writing and even offering guidance on how to manipulate the story for dramatic effect.
As the boundary between fiction and reality begins to blur, Germain becomes more deeply entangled in Claude’s life and the lives of the Artole family. His relationship with his wife, Jeanne (Kristin Scott Thomas), a contemporary art gallery owner, also becomes strained as he becomes consumed by Claude’s stories. Jeanne, intrigued by Claude’s talent and the moral implications of Germain’s mentorship, finds herself drawn into the unfolding drama as well.
The film takes a dark turn as Claude’s writings become increasingly invasive and manipulative, raising questions about the ethics of storytelling, the power dynamics between teacher and student, and the consequences of crossing personal boundaries. The narrative unfolds with a mix of suspense, humor, and psychological tension, leading to an unexpected and thought-provoking conclusion.
Why In the House (2012) Stands Out
In the House is a film that stands out for its intelligent script, nuanced performances, and the way it plays with the concept of narrative. François Ozon, known for his eclectic body of work, expertly weaves together elements of drama, thriller, and dark comedy to create a film that is both entertaining and intellectually stimulating.
One of the film’s strengths is its exploration of the power of storytelling. Claude’s essays serve as a lens through which we see the characters’ lives, blurring the line between fiction and reality. The film constantly challenges the audience to question what is real and what is imagined, creating a sense of unease and suspense that keeps viewers engaged.
The performances are another highlight, particularly those of Fabrice Luchini and Ernst Umhauer. Luchini delivers a masterful performance as Germain, capturing the character’s transformation from a disillusioned teacher to a man obsessed with his student’s writing. Umhauer is equally compelling as Claude, portraying him as both innocent and manipulative, a young man who is both the observer and the instigator of the events that unfold.
Emmanuelle Seigner and Kristin Scott Thomas also deliver strong performances, adding depth to the film’s exploration of relationships, desire, and the impact of art on life. The interactions between these characters are layered with tension and ambiguity, reflecting the complex nature of human behavior.
Visually, the film is stylish and meticulously crafted, with Ozon’s direction enhancing the narrative’s psychological depth. The use of framing, lighting, and camera angles adds to the film’s voyeuristic theme, drawing the audience into Claude’s perspective as he observes and manipulates the world around him.
Thematically, In the House touches on a range of issues, including the ethics of teaching, the nature of creativity, and the consequences of overstepping personal boundaries. The film’s exploration of these themes is subtle yet impactful, leaving a lasting impression on the viewer.
Where to Watch In the House (2012) Online
If you’re interested in watching In the House (2012) online, here are some streaming and rental options available in the United States:
Streaming Services:
- Amazon Prime Video: In the House is available for streaming with an Amazon Prime subscription. It’s also available for rent or purchase on the platform, making it accessible to a wide audience.
- Hulu: The film is sometimes available on Hulu, particularly as part of their selection of foreign films. It’s worth checking the platform to see if it’s currently included in their library.
- Criterion Channel: As a critically acclaimed foreign film, In the House might be available on the Criterion Channel, which specializes in classic and contemporary films from around the world.
Rental/Purchase Options:
- Amazon Prime Video: You can rent In the House for $3.99 or purchase it for $12.99 on Amazon. The film is available in HD, providing a high-quality viewing experience.
- Apple iTunes: Apple users can rent the film for $3.99 or purchase it for $9.99 on iTunes. It’s available in HD, ensuring a visually pleasing watch.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Google Play offers the movie for rent at $3.99 or purchase for $9.99. This platform is accessible across various devices, offering flexibility for viewers.
- Vudu: On Vudu, In the House is available for rental starting at $2.99, with purchase options around $9.99. Vudu provides various viewing quality options, including HDX.
Subscription Services:
- HBO Max: The film may occasionally be available on HBO Max, depending on their rotating catalog of films.
- Netflix: In the House has appeared on Netflix in the past, so it’s worth checking to see if it’s currently available in their library.
Why You Should Watch In the House (2012)
In the House is a film that challenges its audience to think critically about the nature of storytelling, the ethical boundaries of mentorship, and the impact of art on life. Its blend of psychological drama and thriller elements makes it a gripping watch, while its exploration of complex themes ensures it resonates long after the credits roll.
For fans of cerebral cinema, In the House offers a richly layered narrative that rewards close attention and reflection. The film’s strong performances, particularly by Luchini and Umhauer, add depth to the story, making it an engaging and thought-provoking experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, In the House (2012) is a captivating and intellectually stimulating film that explores the intricate relationship between life and art. François Ozon’s direction, combined with strong performances and a compelling narrative, makes this film a must-watch for anyone who appreciates films that challenge the mind and provoke thought. Whether you’re streaming it online or renting it for a movie night, In the House is sure to leave you reflecting on the power of storytelling and the boundaries between fiction and reality.
