Life (1999) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Friendship, Comedy, and Injustice in Eddie Murphy and Martin Lawrence’s Forgotten Classic
Directed by Ted Demme, Life (1999) is an unforgettable dramedy starring Eddie Murphy and Martin Lawrence in one of the most dynamic on-screen duos of the late 90s. While the film may not have achieved blockbuster status upon release, it has since gained a loyal following for its clever mix of humor, heart, and poignant social commentary. Set against the backdrop of the American South during the 1930s, Life examines the themes of racism, injustice, and the unbreakable bond of friendship through the story of two men serving life sentences for a crime they didn’t commit.
In this review, we’ll delve into the film’s plot, performances, and legacy while also guiding you to where you can watch Life online.
Plot Overview
Life tells the story of Ray Gibson (Eddie Murphy) and Claude Banks (Martin Lawrence), two men from Harlem who are wrongfully convicted of murder in Mississippi in 1932. Ray is a fast-talking conman, while Claude is a straight-laced bank teller with dreams of becoming a big-time businessman. The two meet under less-than-ideal circumstances in New York City, but when Ray ropes Claude into a bootlegging scheme, their lives take a drastic turn.
After being framed for the murder of a local gambler, they are sentenced to life in prison at the notorious Mississippi State Penitentiary. What follows is a harrowing yet humorous journey spanning several decades, as Ray and Claude struggle to survive the harsh realities of prison life while attempting to clear their names and escape. Over the course of their imprisonment, the two men forge an unlikely friendship, providing one another with hope and laughter in the darkest of circumstances.
The film cleverly uses flashbacks and time jumps to explore the changes in their relationship and in American society, portraying the men’s aging process and the way they handle their imprisonment. Life is both a heartbreaking tale of injustice and a comedic exploration of how humor and friendship can endure even in the bleakest of situations.
Eddie Murphy and Martin Lawrence: A Dynamic Duo
At the heart of Life is the impeccable chemistry between Eddie Murphy and Martin Lawrence. Both actors were at the height of their careers when they teamed up for this film, and their performances perfectly complement each other.
Eddie Murphy, known for his larger-than-life comedic roles, delivers a more restrained yet emotionally resonant performance as Ray Gibson. While Murphy still brings his trademark humor, his portrayal of Ray shows depth and vulnerability as the character grows from a street-smart hustler into a man who grapples with the loss of his freedom and the passage of time.
Martin Lawrence, on the other hand, plays the straight man to Murphy’s more flamboyant character. As Claude, Lawrence is more subdued but equally compelling, portraying a man whose dreams are shattered by an unjust system. The balance between Murphy’s quick wit and Lawrence’s grounded portrayal creates a dynamic that feels authentic, showcasing the evolution of their relationship from reluctant partners to lifelong friends.
Supporting performances from an all-star cast, including Bernie Mac, Anthony Anderson, and Ned Beatty, add to the richness of the film. Bernie Mac, in particular, stands out as Jangle Leg, a quirky and memorable character who adds levity to the grim setting of the prison.
A Perfect Blend of Comedy and Drama
Life skillfully walks the line between comedy and drama. While the film addresses serious themes like racism, injustice, and the cruelty of the American penal system, it never loses sight of its comedic core. This balance is what sets Life apart from other prison dramas — it’s not just about the misery of incarceration but also about the resilience of the human spirit.
The humor in Life comes from both situational comedy and the witty banter between Ray and Claude. Whether it’s their squabbles over trivial matters or their humorous attempts to escape the prison, the film is filled with laugh-out-loud moments. However, these lighter scenes are often followed by more sobering moments, reminding the audience of the harsh realities faced by the characters. This contrast creates an emotional rollercoaster that keeps viewers invested from start to finish.
Themes of Friendship, Injustice, and Perseverance
At its core, Life is a story about friendship. Despite their differences, Ray and Claude develop a bond that sustains them throughout their decades of imprisonment. Their friendship is tested by time, hardship, and the occasional fallout, but it remains the emotional anchor of the film. Their journey from rivals to brothers is one of the most rewarding aspects of the story, showing that even in the most hopeless situations, human connection can provide solace.
The film also offers a sobering critique of the justice system and the racial inequality that was rampant in the American South during the 1930s. Ray and Claude’s wrongful conviction highlights the systemic racism that often trapped African Americans in cycles of poverty, incarceration, and disenfranchisement. Though Life handles these themes with a light touch, the film still manages to deliver a powerful message about the injustice of the prison system, particularly as it existed in the Jim Crow era.
The film’s final act is both bittersweet and satisfying, offering closure for Ray and Claude in a way that feels both redemptive and poignant. Their journey through life’s ups and downs serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of friendship to overcome even the greatest injustices.
Where to Watch Life Online
If you’re interested in watching Life, here are some platforms where you can stream or purchase the film online:
Streaming Services
- Peacock: Life is available to stream on Peacock with a subscription. Peacock offers both free and premium tiers, but Life is likely available on the premium plan, offering ad-free streaming in HD.
- Starz: Subscribers to Starz can also stream Life as part of their catalog. The service is available as a standalone subscription or as an add-on through other platforms like Amazon Prime and Hulu.
Rental/Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video: Life is available for both rental and purchase on Amazon Prime Video. It can be streamed in HD and is available for download for offline viewing.
- Google Play Movies & TV: You can rent or purchase Life on Google Play Movies & TV, making it accessible on Android devices, smart TVs, and online.
- Apple TV/iTunes: Life is also available for rent or purchase through Apple TV, where you can enjoy the movie in HD and download it for offline viewing.
- Vudu: Offering both rental and purchase options, Vudu allows you to stream Life in high definition on multiple devices.
Why Life Is Worth Watching
Life may not have received the same level of recognition as other films from Eddie Murphy and Martin Lawrence’s careers, but it is a gem worth discovering (or rediscovering). The film’s unique blend of comedy and drama, combined with powerful performances and a meaningful story, make it a standout in the genre. Its themes of friendship, perseverance, and injustice are just as relevant today as they were when the film was released.
Whether you’re a fan of prison dramas, buddy comedies, or films that tackle social issues with a light touch, Life offers a little bit of everything. It’s a movie that will make you laugh, cry, and think, often within the same scene.
Conclusion
Life (1999) is a well-crafted film that deserves more attention for its engaging story, exceptional performances, and thoughtful handling of serious themes. Eddie Murphy and Martin Lawrence deliver standout performances that showcase their range as actors, while the film’s blend of humor and heart makes it a must-watch for fans of comedy-dramas. If you haven’t seen Life yet, it’s time to add it to your watchlist.
