London Has Fallen (2016) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
“London Has Fallen,” released in 2016, is the action-packed sequel to the 2013 hit film, “Olympus Has Fallen.” Directed by Babak Najafi, this explosive thriller once again stars Gerard Butler, Aaron Eckhart, and Morgan Freeman. The film centers on a devastating terrorist plot in the heart of London and the race to protect world leaders during a time of crisis.
In this review, we will dive into the plot, performances, and key aspects of the film, as well as where you can watch “London Has Fallen” online. Whether you’re looking to stream it for free or rent it, we’ve got you covered.
Plot Summary
The story begins with the sudden and suspicious death of the British Prime Minister. His funeral in London becomes a high-profile event, drawing the world’s most powerful leaders to the city. Among them is the U.S. President, Benjamin Asher (played by Aaron Eckhart), who is accompanied by his trusted Secret Service agent Mike Banning (played by Gerard Butler). What was supposed to be a solemn gathering quickly turns into a coordinated terrorist attack on London, aiming to eliminate all the world leaders in attendance.
Banning, alongside President Asher, narrowly escapes the initial strike and is forced to navigate the chaotic streets of London while evading the heavily armed mercenaries responsible for the attack. With help from Vice President Allan Trumbull (played by Morgan Freeman) and the British intelligence service, Banning must thwart the enemy’s plans and ensure the survival of the president, all while uncovering the conspiracy behind the catastrophic event.
Cast and Performances
Gerard Butler shines once again in his portrayal of Mike Banning, delivering intense action scenes with charisma and a rough edge. His commitment to protecting the president showcases his resilience as an action star, embodying the ‘lone-wolf’ hero that audiences love. Aaron Eckhart brings a grounded performance as President Asher, displaying a mix of vulnerability and strength as he faces threats that test his resolve. Morgan Freeman offers a commanding presence as Vice President Trumbull, lending gravitas to his role, especially in scenes where he manages the crisis from Washington D.C.
Supporting performances from Angela Bassett, Radha Mitchell, and Alon Moni Aboutboul (who plays the main antagonist, Aamir Barkawi) add depth to the ensemble, though the film remains centered on Butler’s physical and emotional journey.
Direction and Cinematography
Director Babak Najafi takes over the reins from Antoine Fuqua, who helmed the first film in the series. Najafi successfully maintains the frenetic pacing and high-octane action sequences that fans of the original will appreciate. The film’s setting in London allows for sweeping shots of iconic landmarks, which are swiftly and effectively destroyed as part of the terrorists’ master plan. The fast-paced, up-close fight choreography keeps the tension high and the viewer engaged, although some of the CGI sequences, particularly those involving large-scale destruction, may feel a bit dated by today’s standards.
The cinematography, led by Ed Wild, captures the urgency of Banning’s mission through shaky, handheld camera work during action scenes, helping immerse the audience in the chaos. However, this technique might occasionally feel disorienting for viewers who prefer steadier visuals.
Themes and Impact
At its core, “London Has Fallen” addresses themes of loyalty, survival, and sacrifice. It taps into contemporary fears of global terrorism and the vulnerabilities of even the most powerful nations. The film doesn’t shy away from portraying the ruthlessness of terrorism, but also emphasizes the enduring strength of the human spirit, particularly through Mike Banning’s determination to protect his president at all costs.
While the movie received mixed reviews from critics, who pointed out its reliance on action tropes and a lack of substantial character development, audiences largely enjoyed the thrilling ride. The film grossed over $205 million worldwide, proving its commercial appeal as a straightforward action film.
Where to Watch “London Has Fallen” Online
For those interested in streaming “London Has Fallen,” several platforms offer this film both for rental/purchase and through subscription services. Here’s a breakdown of where you can watch it, especially in the U.S.
Streaming Services
- Netflix – “London Has Fallen” is available on Netflix with a subscription. If you already have a Netflix account, this is one of the easiest ways to stream the movie without additional fees.
- Amazon Prime Video – You can rent or purchase the film on Amazon Prime Video. Rental prices start at $3.99 for HD, while buying the movie will cost you around $14.99.
- Hulu – While not always available, Hulu occasionally lists “London Has Fallen” as part of their movie offerings for those with an add-on subscription to services like Cinemax or Showtime.
- Peacock – As part of its expansive movie library, Peacock often includes this title for streaming. If you’re a subscriber to Peacock Premium, you may be able to stream “London Has Fallen” without any extra charge.
Rental and Purchase Options
If you prefer renting or purchasing the movie, the following platforms offer “London Has Fallen” at competitive prices:
- Google Play – Available for both rental ($3.99) and purchase ($14.99), Google Play offers the flexibility of streaming the movie on a variety of devices.
- Apple TV/iTunes – Like Google Play, Apple TV offers similar pricing for both rental and purchase. iTunes users can enjoy watching the movie through their Apple ecosystem.
- Vudu – Vudu is another great option, offering both HD and 4K versions for rent or purchase. Prices typically range from $3.99 to $14.99, depending on the format you choose.
- YouTube Movies – A convenient option for anyone with a YouTube account, you can rent “London Has Fallen” for around $3.99 or purchase it for $14.99. YouTube Movies makes it easy to stream the movie directly on mobile devices, smart TVs, or web browsers.
Conclusion
“London Has Fallen” is a thrilling, high-energy action movie that caters to fans of intense, fast-paced cinema. While it may not delve deeply into character development or emotional arcs, it excels in delivering explosive sequences and maintaining a strong sense of urgency throughout its runtime. Gerard Butler’s performance as Mike Banning is a highlight, solidifying his status as a top-tier action star.
For those looking to watch “London Has Fallen” online, the movie is widely available on streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Peacock, as well as through rental services such as Google Play, Apple TV, and YouTube Movies. Whether you’re in the mood to rent or stream, there’s a convenient way to watch this action-packed film.
Don’t miss out on this adrenaline-fueled ride through the streets of London – buckle up and enjoy the action!
