Loving (2016) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Loving (2016), directed by Jeff Nichols, is a powerful historical drama that tells the true story of Richard and Mildred Loving, an interracial couple whose legal battle for their right to marry led to a landmark Supreme Court decision. The film explores themes of love, justice, and the fight against racial prejudice.
In this review, we’ll dive into the film’s plot, key performances, and where you can stream Loving online.
Plot Summary: A Fight for Love and Equality
Loving centers on the real-life story of Richard Loving (Joel Edgerton) and Mildred Jeter (Ruth Negga), who married in 1958. Their marriage, considered illegal in Virginia due to anti-miscegenation laws, leads to their arrest and imprisonment. The Lovings are forced to leave Virginia and settle in Washington, D.C. to avoid further legal troubles.
Determined to return to their home state and fight for their rights, the Lovings seek legal assistance from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). Their case eventually reaches the Supreme Court, resulting in the landmark decision in Loving v. Virginia (1967), which struck down laws banning interracial marriage across the United States.
Key Performances: Joel Edgerton, Ruth Negga, and Supporting Cast
- Joel Edgerton as Richard Loving: Edgerton delivers a subtle and moving performance as Richard Loving. His portrayal captures Richard’s quiet strength and steadfast commitment to his family and his fight for justice.
- Ruth Negga as Mildred Loving: Negga’s performance as Mildred Loving is both heartfelt and powerful. She portrays Mildred’s resilience and determination with grace, bringing depth to the character’s emotional and personal struggles.
- Michael Shannon as Grey Villet: Shannon plays Grey Villet, a Life magazine photographer who documents the Lovings’ story. His role adds a layer of authenticity and perspective to the film.
- Nick Kroll as Bernard Cohen: Kroll plays Bernard Cohen, the attorney who represents the Lovings. His performance highlights the legal and personal challenges faced by the couple’s legal team.
Themes: Love, Justice, and Racial Prejudice
Loving explores several important themes:
- Love and Commitment: The central theme of the film is the enduring love and commitment between Richard and Mildred Loving. Their relationship transcends societal barriers and serves as a testament to the power of love in the face of adversity.
- Fight for Justice: The film highlights the Lovings’ legal struggle and the broader fight for civil rights and racial equality. It underscores the importance of challenging unjust laws and advocating for personal freedoms.
- Racial Prejudice and Discrimination: Loving examines the impact of racial prejudice and discriminatory laws on individuals and families. It sheds light on the personal and societal consequences of racial segregation and discrimination.
Direction and Cinematic Style
Jeff Nichols’ direction of Loving is characterized by its understated and respectful approach. The film uses several cinematic techniques to create an authentic and emotionally resonant experience:
- Subtle Storytelling: Nichols opts for a restrained and nuanced storytelling style, allowing the performances and the historical context to drive the narrative. The film focuses on the personal aspects of the Lovings’ story rather than sensationalizing their legal battle.
- Visual Style: The film’s visual style captures the time period with authenticity, using period-appropriate costumes, settings, and cinematography to create a sense of immersion in the 1950s and 1960s.
- Emotional Impact: The film’s emotional impact is heightened by its intimate portrayal of the Lovings’ personal lives and struggles. The use of close-ups and naturalistic performances enhances the audience’s connection to the characters.
Where to Watch Loving (2016) Online in the USA
If you’re interested in streaming Loving online, here are the platforms where you can watch the film in the U.S.:
1. Streaming Services (Subscription-Based)
- Hulu: Loving is available for streaming on Hulu with a subscription. Hulu offers a range of films and TV shows starting at $7.99 per month.
- Amazon Prime Video: The film is available for streaming with a subscription on Amazon Prime Video. Prime Video provides access to a large library of films and TV shows.
2. Rental and Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video: You can rent or purchase Loving on Amazon Prime Video. Rental prices typically start at $3.99, and purchasing the film in HD costs around $12.99.
- Apple TV (iTunes): The movie is available for rent on Apple TV for $3.99 or for purchase at $12.99.
- Google Play Movies: You can rent or buy Loving on Google Play Movies, with rental prices starting at $3.99 and purchase prices at $12.99.
- Vudu: On Vudu, you can rent the film for $3.99 or purchase it for $12.99.
- YouTube Movies: The film is also available for rent or purchase on YouTube Movies with similar pricing options.
Why You Should Watch Loving on Streaming Platforms
Streaming Loving provides an opportunity to experience a moving and important film that tells a crucial part of American civil rights history. The film’s powerful performances, historical significance, and emotional depth make it a compelling and educational watch.
Platforms like Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV offer convenient options for renting or purchasing the film, allowing you to enjoy it at your convenience.
Conclusion: A Moving Portrayal of Love and Justice
Loving (2016) is a poignant film that brings to life the real-life story of Richard and Mildred Loving and their fight for justice. Directed by Jeff Nichols, the film features outstanding performances from Joel Edgerton and Ruth Negga, and it effectively explores themes of love, justice, and racial prejudice.
With its respectful and intimate portrayal of the Lovings’ story, Loving is a powerful and thought-provoking film that continues to resonate with audiences.
Watch Loving Today:
- Hulu
- Amazon Prime Video
- Apple TV (iTunes)
- Google Play Movies
- Vudu
- YouTube Movies
Experience the moving story of Loving and reflect on the enduring power of love and the fight for equality.
