Kursk (2018) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Kursk (2018), directed by Thomas Vinterberg, is a gripping historical drama that recounts the harrowing events of the 2000 Kursk submarine disaster. The film portrays the true story of the Russian submarine Kursk, which sank in the Barents Sea and the desperate attempts to rescue the crew trapped inside. This review will explore the film’s plot, performances, thematic elements, and where to stream or rent Kursk online in the U.S.
Plot Summary: The Kursk Disaster
Kursk focuses on the events leading up to and following the sinking of the Russian submarine Kursk during a naval exercise. The film opens with the Kursk preparing for a series of drills, showcasing the camaraderie among the crew members and the high stakes of their mission. However, during one of the exercises, a catastrophic explosion occurs, causing the submarine to sink and leaving the crew trapped in the wreckage.
As the Russian Navy and government struggle with bureaucratic inefficiencies and a lack of resources, the families of the trapped sailors face a desperate wait for news. The film also highlights the attempts by foreign powers, including the British and Norwegian governments, to offer assistance in the rescue efforts. The narrative emphasizes the personal stories of the crew members and their loved ones, portraying the emotional and physical challenges faced during the crisis.
Performances: A Powerful Ensemble Cast
- Matthias Schoenaerts stars as Mikhail Averin, one of the submarine’s crew members. Schoenaerts delivers a poignant performance, capturing the character’s bravery and despair as the crew faces dire circumstances.
- Léa Seydoux plays Tanya Averin, Mikhail’s wife. Seydoux’s performance adds emotional depth to the film, portraying the anguish and helplessness experienced by the families waiting for news of their loved ones.
- Colin Firth appears as a British naval officer who becomes involved in the international efforts to aid in the rescue. Firth’s role underscores the film’s theme of international cooperation and the complexities of the rescue mission.
- Max von Sydow plays an experienced naval officer who provides insight and support during the rescue attempts. Von Sydow’s performance adds gravitas and depth to the film.
Themes: Tragedy, Bureaucracy, and Human Resilience
Kursk explores several significant themes:
- Tragedy and Loss: The film portrays the devastating impact of the Kursk disaster on the crew, their families, and the broader naval community. It highlights the human cost of the tragedy and the emotional turmoil experienced by those affected.
- Bureaucracy and Inefficiency: A central theme in the film is the inefficiency and bureaucratic challenges faced by the Russian government and military. The film critiques the failure to respond effectively to the crisis, emphasizing the obstacles that hindered the rescue efforts.
- Human Resilience and Solidarity: Despite the dire circumstances, the film also showcases the resilience and solidarity of the crew members and their families. It highlights the courage and determination displayed in the face of overwhelming odds.
Where to Watch Kursk Online in the U.S.
To watch Kursk, you can find it on various streaming and rental platforms:
1. Subscription-Based Streaming Services
- Hulu: Check Hulu for availability. The film may be included with your subscription or available for rental or purchase.
2. Rental/Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video: Rent or purchase Kursk on Amazon Prime Video. Renting provides a 48-hour viewing window, while purchasing allows for unlimited streaming.
- Google Play Movies: Available for rent or purchase on Google Play Movies. Stream it on various devices, including Android phones and smart TVs.
- Apple TV (iTunes): Rent or buy Kursk on Apple TV for seamless streaming across Apple devices.
- Vudu: Offers Kursk for rent or purchase in high definition, providing excellent video and audio quality.
3. Other Platforms
- YouTube Movies: Rent or purchase Kursk on YouTube Movies, accessible on a range of devices.
- Redbox On Demand: Available for rental on Redbox On Demand, allowing instant streaming without physical media.
Conclusion
Kursk (2018) is a compelling and emotional historical drama that brings attention to the tragic Kursk submarine disaster. Directed by Thomas Vinterberg and featuring strong performances from Matthias Schoenaerts, Léa Seydoux, Colin Firth, and Max von Sydow, the film provides a poignant depiction of the events and the personal stories behind the tragedy.
With its exploration of the human cost of the disaster, the challenges of bureaucracy, and the resilience of those affected, Kursk offers a powerful and thought-provoking viewing experience.
You can stream Kursk on Hulu or find it for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies, Apple TV, Vudu, YouTube Movies, and Redbox On Demand.
