Matthias & Maxime (2019) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Matthias & Maxime (2019) is a French-Canadian drama film written and directed by Xavier Dolan, who also stars in the movie. The film explores themes of friendship, identity, and the complexities of love through the lens of two childhood friends who must confront their feelings for each other after an unexpected kiss. Known for his deeply personal storytelling and striking visual style, Dolan delivers another emotionally charged film that resonates with both his fans and new audiences alike.
Plot Summary
Matthias & Maxime centers around the lives of Matthias (Gabriel D’Almeida Freitas) and Maxime (Xavier Dolan), two close friends in their late twenties living in Montreal. Their friendship, along with their tight-knit group of friends, has remained a constant in their lives despite the challenges of adulthood. Matthias works in a high-powered corporate job, while Maxime, dealing with a difficult home life, plans to leave for Australia to start fresh.
The film’s inciting event occurs when Matthias and Maxime are asked to participate in a student film directed by a friend’s sister. The scene requires them to share an on-screen kiss, something they agree to with little thought. However, the kiss unexpectedly stirs deep emotions in both men, causing them to question their relationship and their feelings for one another.
As the story unfolds, Matthias struggles with his attraction to Maxime, leading to tension and confusion. Maxime, on the other hand, is dealing with his own personal issues, including his strained relationship with his mother and his impending departure. The film captures the nuances of their internal conflicts, as they both navigate the uncertainty of their feelings and the impact it has on their friendship.
Critical Reception
Matthias & Maxime was well-received by critics, particularly for its intimate portrayal of complex emotions and relationships. Xavier Dolan, known for his ability to capture raw and honest performances, was praised for his direction and for his role as Maxime. The film’s exploration of male friendship, love, and identity is handled with sensitivity and depth, making it a poignant and relatable story for many viewers.
Critics also highlighted the film’s visual style, which is a hallmark of Dolan’s work. The use of close-ups, natural lighting, and a vibrant color palette helps to convey the emotional intensity of the characters’ experiences. The film’s soundtrack, featuring a mix of classical music and contemporary songs, further enhances its emotional impact.
However, some reviewers noted that the film’s pacing could be slow at times, and that the story, while emotionally resonant, follows a familiar trajectory seen in other coming-of-age and romance films. Despite these critiques, Matthias & Maxime stands out for its authentic portrayal of complex emotions and the way it challenges traditional notions of friendship and love.
Themes and Analysis
Matthias & Maxime delves into themes of self-discovery, identity, and the fluidity of human relationships. At its core, the film is about the fear of change and the struggle to accept one’s true self. Matthias represents the fear of confronting one’s own desires and the societal expectations that often dictate our choices. His journey is one of self-denial and eventual realization, as he grapples with his feelings for Maxime.
Maxime, on the other hand, embodies the theme of escape and the desire for a new beginning. His decision to move to Australia reflects his need to break free from his past and the burdens of his family life. Yet, his unresolved feelings for Matthias complicate his plans, forcing him to confront what he truly wants.
The film also touches on the idea of unspoken love and the boundaries between friendship and romantic attraction. Dolan explores the ambiguity of these relationships, challenging the characters and the audience to question the nature of their bonds. The kiss that ignites the story serves as a catalyst for both Matthias and Maxime to explore parts of themselves they had kept hidden, leading to a profound and emotional journey.
Where to Watch Matthias & Maxime Online
If you’re interested in watching Matthias & Maxime online, there are several streaming and rental options available in the United States. Here’s where you can find the film:
1. Streaming Services
- MUBI: Matthias & Maxime is available on MUBI, a streaming service that specializes in curated selections of critically acclaimed films from around the world. MUBI offers a unique viewing experience with its rotating catalog, making it a great platform for discovering films like Matthias & Maxime.
- Hulu: The film is also available for streaming on Hulu. Known for its wide variety of films and TV shows, Hulu provides an accessible option for viewers looking to watch Matthias & Maxime.
- Kanopy: For those with a library membership, Matthias & Maxime can be streamed for free on Kanopy. The service offers a wide selection of independent and international films, making it a valuable resource for film enthusiasts.
2. Rental/Purchase Services
- Amazon Video: You can rent or purchase Matthias & Maxime on Amazon Video. Rentals typically cost around $3.99, with the option to purchase the film for about $9.99. Amazon allows you to watch the movie on various devices linked to your account.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Google Play offers rental and purchase options for Matthias & Maxime. Prices are similar to Amazon, with rentals costing $3.99 and purchases starting at $9.99. It’s a convenient choice for streaming on Android devices or via YouTube.
- Apple iTunes: If you’re in the Apple ecosystem, iTunes allows you to rent Matthias & Maxime for $3.99 or purchase it for $9.99. The movie can be streamed on any Apple device, offering high-quality playback and convenience.
- Vudu: Vudu also provides rental and purchase options, with prices in line with other platforms. Vudu’s user-friendly platform is compatible with most devices, making it a convenient choice for renting or buying the film.
Conclusion
Matthias & Maxime (2019) is a beautifully crafted film that explores the complexities of love, friendship, and identity. Xavier Dolan’s direction and performance, along with the strong chemistry between the cast, make this a deeply emotional and resonant film. Whether you’re a fan of Dolan’s previous work or new to his films, Matthias & Maxime offers a poignant and introspective look at the relationships that define us.
With several streaming and rental options available, it’s easy to watch Matthias & Maxime online and experience this touching story of self-discovery and the challenges of navigating the fine line between friendship and love.
