Like Crazy (2011) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Directed by Drake Doremus, Like Crazy (2011) is a poignant romantic drama that captures the complexities of young love and the challenges of long-distance relationships. Starring Anton Yelchin and Felicity Jones, the film presents a raw and intimate portrayal of love, longing, and the emotional turbulence that comes with being apart from someone you care about deeply.
In this review, we’ll explore the plot, character performances, themes, visual style, critical reception, and where to stream or rent Like Crazy online in the U.S.
Plot Summary: A Love That Transcends Borders
The story follows Jacob (played by Anton Yelchin) and Anna (played by Felicity Jones), two college students who fall madly in love while studying in Los Angeles. Their romance blossoms in the summer sun, marked by youthful passion and spontaneity. However, their idyllic relationship is tested when Anna overstays her visa, resulting in her being banned from re-entering the U.S. after a visit to London.
As the couple grapples with the realities of long-distance love, the film delves into their emotional struggles, exploring the impact of separation on their relationship. The narrative captures both the excitement and the heartache of young love as they navigate the challenges of communication, jealousy, and the passage of time.
Cast and Performances: Authentic Chemistry
The performances in Like Crazy are central to its emotional depth:
- Felicity Jones delivers a remarkable performance as Anna, skillfully conveying her character’s vulnerability, passion, and longing. Her portrayal captures the essence of youthful love and the pain of separation.
- Anton Yelchin complements Jones perfectly as Jacob, portraying the character’s devotion and emotional turmoil with authenticity. The chemistry between the two leads is palpable, making their relationship feel genuine and relatable.
- The supporting cast, including Jennifer Lawrence as a friend of Jacob and Charlie Bewley as a rival for Anna’s affections, adds richness to the story, further highlighting the dynamics of young love.
Themes: Love, Distance, and Growth
Like Crazy explores several significant themes:
- The nature of love: The film examines the complexities of love, showcasing its beauty and fragility, particularly in the face of external challenges.
- Long-distance relationships: The narrative highlights the emotional strain that distance can impose on relationships, portraying the struggles of maintaining connection and intimacy.
- Personal growth: As Jacob and Anna navigate their circumstances, the film also touches on themes of personal growth and the impact of relationships on individual identity.
Visual Style: Intimate and Grounded
The visual style of Like Crazy enhances its emotional resonance. Shot in a naturalistic style, the film employs handheld cameras and close-ups to create an intimate atmosphere that draws viewers into the characters’ experiences. The cinematography captures the beauty of Los Angeles and the quiet moments of connection between the leads, enhancing the film’s heartfelt tone.
Critical Reception: Acclaimed and Award-Winning
Upon its release, Like Crazy received critical acclaim for its realistic portrayal of love and relationships. It won the Sundance Film Festival Grand Jury Prize and garnered several nominations, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for Felicity Jones. Critics praised the film for its emotional authenticity and the chemistry between the leads, solidifying its place as a standout romantic drama of its time.
Where to Watch Like Crazy Online in the U.S.
If you’re interested in watching Like Crazy, here are some platforms in the U.S. where you can find it:
1. Amazon Prime Video
Available for rental or purchase.
- Rental Price: Approximately $3.99
- Purchase Price: Approximately $9.99
- Devices: Accessible on Fire TV, Roku, smart TVs, and mobile devices.
2. Google Play Movies & TV
Available for rental or purchase.
- Rental Price: Approximately $3.99
- Purchase Price: Approximately $9.99
- Devices: Compatible with Android devices, smart TVs, and Chromecast.
3. Apple TV (iTunes)
Available for rent or purchase in HD.
- Rental Price: Approximately $3.99
- Purchase Price: Approximately $9.99
- Devices: Watch on iPhones, iPads, Apple TVs, and Macs.
4. Vudu
Available for rental and purchase without a subscription.
- Rental Price: Approximately $3.99
- Purchase Price: Approximately $9.99
- Devices: Watch on Roku, smart TVs, and gaming consoles.
Conclusion: A Heartfelt Exploration of Love
Like Crazy (2011) is a beautifully crafted romantic drama that captures the essence of young love and the challenges that come with it. With powerful performances from Felicity Jones and Anton Yelchin, along with its relatable themes and intimate visual style, the film remains a poignant exploration of relationships. For those seeking a heartfelt love story, Like Crazy is available on various streaming and rental platforms in the U.S.
