Ingrid Goes West (2017) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Ingrid Goes West (2017), directed by Matt Spicer, is a dark comedy-drama that offers a satirical exploration of social media obsession, loneliness, and the quest for identity in the digital age. Starring Aubrey Plaza, Elizabeth Olsen, and O’Shea Jackson Jr., the film critiques how Instagram culture can distort reality and human connections, all while delivering biting humor and unsettling tension. With its sharp commentary and standout performances, Ingrid Goes West is a must-watch for fans of dark comedies and modern social critique. Let’s delve into why this film is so relevant and where you can watch it online.
Plot Summary: A Tale of Obsession and Social Media
At the heart of Ingrid Goes West is Ingrid Thorburn (Aubrey Plaza), a young woman struggling with mental health issues and loneliness. After being institutionalized following a stalking incident, Ingrid becomes obsessed with Instagram influencer Taylor Sloane (Elizabeth Olsen). Taylor’s seemingly perfect life—full of beautiful imagery, curated posts, and glamorous friends—appears to be everything Ingrid dreams of.
With a small inheritance in hand, Ingrid decides to move to Los Angeles and ingratiate herself into Taylor’s life. What starts as innocent admiration quickly spirals into stalking, manipulation, and deception. Ingrid uses social media to track Taylor’s every move, adjusting her own persona to fit into Taylor’s world.
As the two women grow closer, Ingrid’s fragile mental state begins to unravel, and the darker side of social media culture is laid bare. The film takes the viewer on a journey through the pitfalls of online obsession, the illusion of perfection, and the lengths people will go to for validation.
Themes: Social Media, Identity, and Loneliness
Ingrid Goes West is a biting critique of Instagram culture and how it fuels the need for validation, perfection, and superficial connections. Ingrid’s journey serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of using social media as a way to fill emotional voids and shape one’s identity.
The film also explores the loneliness that often lies beneath curated images. Taylor Sloane’s seemingly perfect life, filled with carefully selected moments for Instagram, is revealed to be hollow, driven by the same insecurities and need for attention that plague Ingrid. The film exposes how the digital age has made it easier than ever to present an idealized version of oneself while hiding the flaws, struggles, and emotions behind a filter.
Another significant theme is the destructive nature of obsession. Ingrid’s need to be part of Taylor’s world grows more intense as her mental health deteriorates. The film deftly balances dark comedy with a more sobering exploration of mental illness and the toxic impact of seeking validation through social media.
Why Ingrid Goes West Is a Must-Watch
Ingrid Goes West stands out due to its sharp writing and performances, particularly from Aubrey Plaza. Known for her dry, sarcastic roles, Plaza delivers a nuanced performance as Ingrid, balancing her character’s likability with an underlying instability. Plaza’s portrayal makes Ingrid both a tragic figure and a symbol of the dangers of social media obsession.
Elizabeth Olsen also shines as Taylor Sloane, embodying the quintessential Instagram influencer with ease. Her character’s flawless public persona hides a more complex, vulnerable individual, giving the audience a glimpse into how even those who seem to “have it all” can struggle with insecurity.
The film’s visual style complements its themes, with vibrant, picture-perfect scenes that mimic Instagram aesthetics, underscoring the film’s message about curated realities. It’s an uncomfortable yet necessary reminder of the gulf between online personas and real life.
Where to Watch Ingrid Goes West Online in 2024
If you’re eager to watch Ingrid Goes West and explore its take on social media culture, here are the streaming platforms where you can find it in the U.S.
1. Hulu
Ingrid Goes West is currently available for streaming on Hulu. If you’re a Hulu subscriber, you can watch the film without any extra costs. The film fits well within Hulu’s selection of critically acclaimed indie films and comedies with a darker edge.
Hulu Subscription Plans:
- $7.99/month with ads
- $14.99/month ad-free
- $69.99/month (Hulu + Live TV)
2. Amazon Prime Video
For those who prefer to rent or purchase the movie, Amazon Prime Video offers Ingrid Goes West in both HD and SD formats. This is a great option if you’re not a Hulu subscriber or if you want to own the film to watch it at any time.
Rental and Purchase Prices on Amazon Prime Video:
- Rental: $3.99 (HD) or $2.99 (SD)
- Purchase: $12.99 (HD)
3. Apple TV (iTunes)
If you’re an Apple user, Apple TV (formerly iTunes) offers Ingrid Goes West for rent or purchase. This platform is convenient for streaming across Apple devices, such as iPhones, iPads, and Apple TVs.
Rental and Purchase Prices on Apple TV:
- Rental: $3.99 (HD) or $2.99 (SD)
- Purchase: $12.99 (HD)
4. Google Play Movies & TV
Google Play Movies & TV is another solid option for renting or buying Ingrid Goes West. With the Google Play app, you can stream it across a range of devices, making it a flexible option for Android users.
Rental and Purchase Prices on Google Play:
- Rental: $3.99 (HD) or $2.99 (SD)
- Purchase: $12.99 (HD)
5. Vudu
Vudu offers Ingrid Goes West for rent or purchase. It’s worth checking Vudu periodically for potential deals or discounts, as the platform often offers sales on popular films.
Rental and Purchase Prices on Vudu:
- Rental: $3.99 (HD) or $2.99 (SD)
- Purchase: $12.99 (HD)
6. YouTube Movies
Lastly, YouTube Movies allows you to rent or buy Ingrid Goes West directly from the YouTube platform, making it easily accessible on a wide variety of devices.
Rental and Purchase Prices on YouTube:
- Rental: $3.99 (HD) or $2.99 (SD)
- Purchase: $12.99 (HD)
Why You Should Watch Ingrid Goes West
Ingrid Goes West is more than just a dark comedy—it’s a film that speaks to the anxieties of living in the digital age. With its keen observations on social media culture, mental health, and the façade of perfection, the film resonates deeply with today’s audiences. Aubrey Plaza’s performance alone makes it worth watching, but it’s the film’s unflinching exploration of identity and obsession that truly sets it apart.
The film’s blend of humor and tension ensures that viewers are both entertained and left with plenty to think about after the credits roll. In a world where Instagram influencers are idolized and validation is sought through likes and followers, Ingrid Goes West is a timely and relevant cautionary tale.
Conclusion: Watch Ingrid Goes West Online Today
If you’re looking for a film that combines dark humor with a sharp critique of modern society, Ingrid Goes West is the perfect choice. The film’s exploration of social media obsession, mental health, and identity makes it both thought-provoking and unsettling. Plus, the standout performances from Aubrey Plaza and Elizabeth Olsen make it a film that’s hard to forget.
Available Streaming Services for Ingrid Goes West (2017):
- Hulu (Subscription)
- Amazon Prime Video (Rent/Buy)
- Apple TV (iTunes) (Rent/Buy)
- Google Play Movies & TV (Rent/Buy)
- Vudu (Rent/Buy)
- YouTube Movies (Rent/Buy)
So, head over to your preferred streaming platform and dive into the unsettling world of Ingrid Goes West today!
