La Femme Nikita (1990) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
La Femme Nikita (1990) is a French action-thriller film directed by Luc Besson. Known for its stylish direction and strong performances, the film stars Anne Parillaud, Marc Duret, Patrick Fontana, and Tchéky Karyo. The film tells the story of a young woman who is given a second chance at life by being trained as an elite assassin by a covert government agency.
Plot Summary
The story follows Nikita (Anne Parillaud), a young woman with a troubled past who is sentenced to life imprisonment after a botched robbery. However, her life takes a dramatic turn when she is recruited by a secret government organization known as the “Section.” This covert agency offers her a chance at freedom, but under one condition: she must become an elite assassin working for them.
Trained in espionage, combat, and weaponry, Nikita is transformed into a skilled operative. As she adapts to her new life, she struggles with the moral implications of her actions and the personal sacrifices she must make. The film explores her internal conflict as she grapples with her dual identity as both a government agent and an individual longing for a normal life.
Critical Reception
La Femme Nikita is celebrated for its innovative approach to the action genre and its strong central performance by Anne Parillaud.
Strengths:
- Direction and Style: Luc Besson’s direction is stylish and dynamic, characterized by a blend of sleek visuals and intense action sequences. His use of color, lighting, and camera angles enhances the film’s dramatic and aesthetic impact.
- Performance: Anne Parillaud delivers a compelling performance as Nikita, capturing both her vulnerability and strength. Her portrayal is central to the film’s emotional depth and complexity.
- Action Sequences: The film features well-choreographed action scenes that are both thrilling and visually striking. Besson’s direction ensures that these sequences are integrated seamlessly into the story.
- Themes and Character Development: La Femme Nikita explores themes of redemption, identity, and the consequences of living a double life. The character development is rich, providing insight into Nikita’s internal struggles and growth.
Weaknesses:
- Plot Pacing: Some critics have noted that the film’s pacing can be uneven, with certain segments feeling slower compared to the more action-packed scenes. This might affect the overall flow for some viewers.
- Violence: The film’s depiction of violence and its portrayal of Nikita’s transformation into an assassin may be intense for some audiences. The graphic nature of some scenes may not be suitable for everyone.
- Character Relationships: While the film focuses on Nikita’s personal journey, some critics have felt that the relationships between characters could be more developed. Certain secondary characters might not receive as much attention.
Themes and Analysis
La Femme Nikita delves into several significant themes:
- Redemption and Transformation: The film explores Nikita’s journey from a troubled criminal to a skilled assassin, highlighting the theme of redemption. Her transformation reflects the possibility of change and the struggle to reconcile one’s past with a new identity.
- Identity and Duality: Nikita’s dual life as both a government operative and an individual with personal desires creates a central conflict in the film. The theme of identity is examined through her struggle to balance these conflicting roles.
- Freedom and Constraint: The film addresses the concept of freedom and how it is constrained by Nikita’s new life as an assassin. It examines the sacrifices she must make in exchange for her freedom and the emotional cost of her actions.
- Moral Ambiguity: Nikita’s role as an assassin raises questions about morality and the justification of her actions. The film explores the ethical implications of working for a covert agency and the impact on her personal values.
Where to Watch La Femme Nikita Online
La Femme Nikita is available on several streaming platforms and for rental/purchase online:
1. Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: The film may be available for streaming with an Amazon Prime subscription. Check the Amazon Prime library for availability.
- Hulu: La Femme Nikita might also be available for streaming on Hulu. Check their catalog for current availability.
2. Rental/Purchase Services
- Amazon Video: The film can be rented or purchased on Amazon Video. Rental prices typically start at $3.99, with purchase options around $12.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rental or purchase on Google Play, with similar pricing to Amazon.
- Apple iTunes: La Femme Nikita can be rented or purchased on iTunes, with rental prices starting at $3.99 and purchase options available for around $12.99.
- Vudu: Vudu offers rental and purchase options for the film, with standard pricing.
Conclusion
La Femme Nikita (1990) is a stylish and intense action thriller that showcases Luc Besson’s innovative direction and Anne Parillaud’s strong performance. The film’s exploration of themes such as redemption, identity, and moral ambiguity adds depth to its thrilling narrative. Available on streaming and rental/purchase platforms, La Femme Nikita is a compelling choice for fans of action cinema and those interested in character-driven stories.
