Kiss the Girls (1997) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Kiss the Girls (1997), directed by Gary Fleder, is a psychological thriller based on the novel by James Patterson. The film stars Morgan Freeman, Ashley Judd, and Cary Elwes, and features a gripping plot involving a series of abductions and a race against time to catch a cunning serial kidnapper. With its blend of suspense, drama, and crime-solving, Kiss the Girls offers a compelling cinematic experience.
In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, themes, performances, and provide information on where you can stream or purchase Kiss the Girls online in the U.S.
Plot Overview: A Race Against Time
Kiss the Girls follows Dr. Alex Cross (Morgan Freeman), a forensic psychologist and detective, as he investigates a series of abductions by a mysterious and elusive kidnapper known as “Casanova.” The film begins with the abduction of his niece, Naomi (Gina Torres), and a college student named Kate (Ashley Judd), who manages to escape from Casanova’s clutches.
As Cross delves into the case, he teams up with Kate, who becomes a key witness due to her escape. Together, they work to uncover the identity of Casanova and prevent further abductions. The film’s suspense builds as Cross and Kate race against time to stop the killer and rescue the victims.
Performances: A Strong Ensemble Cast
The film features notable performances from its cast:
- Morgan Freeman stars as Dr. Alex Cross, delivering a commanding performance that showcases his expertise and emotional depth. Freeman’s portrayal adds a layer of intensity and credibility to the character of the detective.
- Ashley Judd plays Kate, the survivor of Casanova’s kidnapping. Judd’s performance is both strong and nuanced, capturing the character’s resilience and trauma as she aids in the investigation.
- Cary Elwes appears as the enigmatic Casanova, the film’s antagonist. Elwes’s portrayal adds a chilling and mysterious quality to the character, making him a memorable villain.
- Jeanette Brox and Jay O. Sanders also feature in supporting roles, contributing to the film’s dynamic and engaging narrative.
Themes: Crime, Trauma, and Justice
Kiss the Girls explores several key themes:
- Crime and Investigation: The film delves into the intricacies of criminal investigation and the challenges of tracking down a skilled and elusive killer. It highlights the efforts of law enforcement and forensic psychology in solving complex cases.
- Trauma and Recovery: The experiences of the kidnapped victims, particularly Kate, bring a focus on the psychological impact of trauma and the process of recovery. The film explores the emotional and psychological effects of such harrowing experiences.
- Justice and Morality: The film examines the pursuit of justice and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters. It explores the balance between seeking justice and dealing with the personal consequences of crime.
Direction and Visuals: A Suspenseful Thriller
Gary Fleder’s direction brings a tense and suspenseful atmosphere to Kiss the Girls. Known for his work on films like The Recruit and Don’t Say a Word, Fleder’s direction maintains a steady pace and builds suspense throughout the film.
The cinematography by Jeffrey L. Kimball enhances the film’s mood with its dark and gritty visuals. The use of lighting and camera angles contributes to the suspenseful and dramatic tone, immersing the audience in the story’s unfolding mystery.
Where to Watch Kiss the Girls Online
If you’re interested in watching Kiss the Girls, here are some options for streaming, renting, or purchasing the film online in the U.S.:
1. Streaming Services:
- Amazon Prime Video (with subscription): Kiss the Girls may be available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video with a subscription. Check the platform for current availability.
- Hulu (with subscription): The film might also be available on Hulu. Verify the current catalog for availability.
2. Rental Services:
For those who prefer to rent the film, several platforms offer it for a one-time rental fee:
- Amazon Prime Video: Rent Kiss the Girls for $3.99 in HD, with 48 hours to watch after you start streaming.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rental at $3.99, allowing you to stream the film on various devices.
- Apple TV: Rent the movie for $3.99 in HD, with the option to watch on all Apple devices.
- Vudu: Offers the film for rent at $3.99, compatible with most streaming devices and smart TVs.
3. Purchase Options:
For those who want to own a copy of the film, it is available for purchase on various platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Purchase Kiss the Girls for $14.99 in HD, available in your digital library.
- Apple TV: The film is available for purchase at $14.99, allowing for offline viewing on Apple devices.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Purchase the film for $14.99, with access across multiple devices.
- Vudu: Purchase Kiss the Girls for $14.99, available for streaming on various platforms.
Final Thoughts: A Gripping Psychological Thriller
Kiss the Girls delivers a gripping and suspenseful experience with its blend of crime, psychological drama, and investigation. With strong performances from Morgan Freeman, Ashley Judd, and Cary Elwes, and direction from Gary Fleder, the film offers an engaging and entertaining thriller.
Whether you’re streaming on Amazon Prime Video or renting on Google Play, Kiss the Girls provides a compelling narrative that keeps the audience engaged with its twists and turns.
From streaming on Amazon Prime Video to renting on Google Play, Kiss the Girls offers an engaging and suspenseful experience. Its strong performances and tense plot make it a standout psychological thriller for fans of the genre.
