Inherent Vice (2014) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Inherent Vice (2014) is a unique cinematic experience that fuses elements of neo-noir, crime, and comedy into an offbeat mystery. Directed by the visionary Paul Thomas Anderson and based on the 2009 novel by Thomas Pynchon, Inherent Vice delivers a psychedelic journey through 1970s Los Angeles, complete with stoners, detectives, and a convoluted plot that embraces the counterculture. In this review, we’ll explore what makes Inherent Vice a standout film and guide you through where you can stream or rent this eccentric classic online, especially in the United States.
Plot Overview
Set in the hazy days of early 1970s Los Angeles, Inherent Vice follows private investigator Larry “Doc” Sportello (played by Joaquin Phoenix), a perpetually stoned, hippie detective. One day, his ex-girlfriend Shasta Fay Hepworth (Katherine Waterston) unexpectedly reappears, asking him to investigate the mysterious disappearance of her current lover, real estate mogul Mickey Wolfmann (Eric Roberts). This seemingly straightforward missing person case spirals into a chaotic tangle of conspiracy theories, drug cartels, corrupt cops, and surf bands, as Doc navigates the shadowy underworld of L.A.
The film weaves together a complex and often intentionally disjointed narrative, reflecting the drug-fueled haze through which Doc views the world. Paul Thomas Anderson masterfully captures the essence of Thomas Pynchon’s labyrinthine storytelling, filled with eccentric characters like Detective Christian “Bigfoot” Bjornsen (Josh Brolin), a straight-laced cop with a love-hate relationship with Doc, and a variety of quirky figures populating the L.A. landscape.
Style and Direction: Paul Thomas Anderson’s Vision
Inherent Vice is often described as one of Paul Thomas Anderson’s most polarizing films, owing to its elusive plot and idiosyncratic style. Known for films like Boogie Nights (1997), There Will Be Blood (2007), and The Master (2012), Anderson brings a distinct directorial style to Inherent Vice. His use of vivid colors, sprawling cinematography, and an unconventional narrative structure reflects the psychedelic and paranoid atmosphere of 1970s America.
The film’s tone oscillates between deadpan comedy, wistful nostalgia, and noirish intrigue, evoking comparisons to classic films like The Big Lebowski (1998) and The Long Goodbye (1973). However, what sets Inherent Vice apart is its unapologetic embrace of the confusing, surreal, and absurd. Anderson’s interpretation of Pynchon’s complex prose ensures that the film will leave audiences with questions — and that’s precisely the point.
Performances: Joaquin Phoenix and the Ensemble Cast
Joaquin Phoenix shines as Doc Sportello, delivering a performance that feels both understated and hilariously aloof. Phoenix plays Doc with a mix of bemusement and confusion, perfectly embodying the character’s laid-back, drug-addled approach to life. His interactions with Josh Brolin’s hard-nosed Detective Bigfoot are some of the film’s most entertaining moments, with Brolin serving as a hilarious foil to Phoenix’s more relaxed persona.
The supporting cast is equally impressive, with Katherine Waterston as the enigmatic Shasta Fay, Reese Witherspoon as Penny, Doc’s occasional lover and assistant district attorney, and Benicio del Toro as Sauncho Smilax, a shady lawyer. Each actor brings something unique to the film, creating a tapestry of eccentric, memorable characters that complement the film’s oddball tone.
Critical Reception
Inherent Vice garnered a mix of critical reactions upon its release. While some praised its ambitious storytelling and Anderson’s commitment to Pynchon’s surreal source material, others found its intentionally convoluted plot difficult to follow. However, even those who struggled with the narrative complexity acknowledged the film’s unique charm, visual flair, and outstanding performances.
The film currently holds a 73% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with many critics praising Anderson’s ability to recreate the feel of a paranoid, post-60s L.A. landscape. It’s also worth noting that the film earned Academy Award nominations for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Costume Design, highlighting its achievements in craftsmanship and storytelling.
For audiences, Inherent Vice might not be a straightforward watch, but it’s a rewarding film for those willing to embrace its chaotic narrative. Fans of Anderson’s work, as well as those with an affinity for offbeat, noirish storytelling, will find much to appreciate in the film.
Where to Watch Inherent Vice Online in America
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the stoner noir world of Inherent Vice, there are plenty of streaming and rental options available. Here’s where you can watch it online in the U.S.:
Streaming Services
- HBO Max: Inherent Vice is available to stream on HBO Max. If you have a subscription, you can enjoy the film at no extra cost. HBO Max is a great choice for cinephiles, as the platform features an impressive library of cult classics, including Anderson’s other films.
- Hulu (with HBO Max add-on): If you subscribe to Hulu and have the HBO Max add-on, you can stream Inherent Vice directly through your Hulu account.
- Amazon Prime Video: While Inherent Vice is not included with Prime, you can rent or purchase the film on Amazon. Rentals typically start at $3.99, and purchasing the HD version costs around $14.99.
Rental and Purchase Options
If you’d prefer to rent or buy Inherent Vice without committing to a subscription service, the following platforms offer convenient options:
- Google Play Movies & TV: Inherent Vice is available for rent at $3.99 or for purchase at $14.99. You can watch it on any device supported by Google Play, including Android phones, Chromecast, and web browsers.
- Apple iTunes: Apple users can rent the film for $3.99 or buy it for $14.99. The movie will be accessible across all your Apple devices, from iPhones to Apple TVs.
- Vudu: Vudu offers both rental and purchase options for Inherent Vice, with rental prices starting at $3.99 and digital purchases at $14.99. Vudu’s platform allows you to stream in high quality, whether on your smart TV, gaming console, or mobile device.
- YouTube Movies: On YouTube Movies, you can rent Inherent Vice for $3.99 or purchase it for $14.99, making it accessible for YouTube users who prefer watching content directly through the platform.
- Microsoft Store: For Windows users, Inherent Vice can be rented or purchased through the Microsoft Store at comparable prices. This platform offers easy access for Windows PC users, as well as Xbox owners.
Conclusion: Should You Watch Inherent Vice?
Inherent Vice is not your typical detective film, nor is it a conventional comedy. It’s a head-spinning ride through a world of paranoia, drugs, and conspiracy that challenges audiences to embrace confusion and absurdity. For fans of Paul Thomas Anderson and those who appreciate films with a distinct, avant-garde style, it’s a must-watch. While the narrative may be difficult to follow at times, the film’s atmosphere, performances, and visual splendor make it a rewarding experience for those willing to go along for the ride.
Whether you’re revisiting Inherent Vice or discovering it for the first time, it’s an unforgettable trip worth taking. And with a variety of streaming platforms and rental services offering the film, it’s easier than ever to dive into this quirky, psychedelic mystery.
