Nell (1994)

Nell (1994) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online

Directed by Michael Apted and starring Jodie Foster, Nell (1994) is a poignant drama that explores themes of isolation, communication, and human connection. Foster’s riveting performance as a young woman raised in seclusion earned her widespread acclaim, solidifying the film’s place as a moving examination of what it means to be human. With beautiful cinematography and a story that tugs at the heartstrings, Nell remains a powerful film decades after its release.

In this review, we’ll explore the plot, key performances, critical reception, and where you can watch Nell online in the U.S.

Plot Overview

Nell follows the story of a woman who has lived her entire life in the wilderness, isolated from society, and must now learn to adapt to a world she has never known.

The Storyline:

• Introduction to Nell: Nell Kellty (Jodie Foster) is a woman who has lived in an isolated cabin in the North Carolina wilderness her entire life, raised by her mother, who recently passed away. Her mother, who had suffered a stroke, spoke with a slurred speech pattern, which Nell inherited. As a result, Nell speaks a unique and nearly incomprehensible language, making communication with the outside world nearly impossible.
• Discovery of Nell: After her mother’s death, Nell is discovered by Dr. Jerome Lovell (Liam Neeson), a local doctor, and Paula Olsen (Natasha Richardson), a psychologist. Initially, they believe Nell is mentally impaired or disturbed, but they soon realize she is a fully functional adult who has simply lived in total isolation for her entire life.
• Learning to Communicate: As Jerome and Paula spend time with Nell, they become fascinated by her and her unique way of communicating. The film focuses on the delicate process of breaking down the barriers between Nell and the modern world. As Nell learns to trust Jerome and Paula, she slowly begins to adapt to their world, though it’s clear she is more comfortable in the wild, where she has lived her whole life.
• Conflict and Moral Dilemmas: Throughout the film, Jerome and Paula wrestle with the ethical implications of bringing Nell into modern society. Some believe Nell should be institutionalized, while others, including Jerome, argue that Nell’s unique life and language should be respected, and she should be allowed to live on her own terms. The film becomes a reflection on the nature of humanity, socialization, and the importance of understanding and respecting different ways of living.
• The Courtroom Decision: The film reaches its emotional climax in a courtroom scene, where it is determined whether Nell will be forced to live in society or allowed to remain in her secluded world. This moment highlights the tension between society’s desire to “civilize” Nell and her own yearning to maintain her freedom and connection to the natural world.

Key Performances

Nell is a character-driven film that features strong performances, with Jodie Foster leading the way:

• Jodie Foster as Nell Kellty: Foster’s performance is the heart of the film. She brings an ethereal and childlike quality to the character, while also portraying Nell’s inner strength and independence. Foster’s physicality and emotional range allow her to fully embody the complexities of a woman who has lived without human contact. Her portrayal of Nell earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.
• Liam Neeson as Dr. Jerome Lovell: Neeson delivers a nuanced performance as Jerome, a man who becomes deeply invested in Nell’s welfare. His character’s quiet compassion and determination to understand Nell’s world serve as a counterbalance to the film’s broader societal conflicts.
• Natasha Richardson as Paula Olsen: Richardson plays Paula, a psychologist initially skeptical of Jerome’s approach to Nell. Her character undergoes significant development, transforming from a detached observer to someone who becomes emotionally involved in Nell’s life. Richardson’s performance adds depth to the ethical questions at the heart of the film.

Themes: Isolation, Language, and Humanity

Nell delves into several profound themes, offering a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition:

• Isolation and Independence: One of the film’s central themes is isolation—both physical and emotional. Nell’s life in the wilderness has kept her independent and free, yet it has also isolated her from human connection. The film raises questions about the value of solitude versus the need for social interaction.
• Language as a Barrier and a Bridge: Language plays a crucial role in Nell. Nell’s unique speech pattern is both a barrier to understanding and, eventually, a bridge that connects her to others. The film emphasizes the importance of empathy and patience when faced with differences in communication and understanding.
• Human Nature and Society: The film explores what it means to be human. As Nell navigates the modern world, the film raises questions about the nature of civilization and whether societal norms should be imposed on those who live outside of them. Nell asks viewers to reflect on the ways society can both help and hinder individuals who live on its margins.

Critical Reception

Nell received generally positive reviews from critics, particularly for Jodie Foster’s extraordinary performance. It has a 53% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with praise for its emotional depth and thematic resonance, though some critics found the film’s pacing and melodramatic elements less compelling.

• Jodie Foster’s Acclaim: Foster’s portrayal of Nell is often cited as one of the best performances of her career. Her ability to convey a wide range of emotions without traditional dialogue impressed both audiences and critics, and she earned multiple award nominations, including an Oscar nod for Best Actress.
• Praise for the Film’s Themes: Many critics appreciated the film’s exploration of complex themes, such as communication and the clash between individual freedom and societal norms. The film’s quieter, more contemplative moments resonated with viewers who enjoyed character-driven narratives.
• Criticisms: Some critics felt that the film’s second half, particularly the courtroom scenes, leaned too heavily into melodrama. Others believed the film’s pacing was too slow, detracting from its emotional impact.

Where to Watch Nell Online in America

For those looking to watch Nell online, there are several options for streaming and rental in the U.S.

Streaming Services

1. Amazon Prime Video: Nell is available for streaming with an Amazon Prime subscription.

Rental and Purchase Options

1. Amazon Prime Video: You can rent Nell for $3.99 or purchase it for $9.99. It’s available in both SD and HD formats.
2. Apple iTunes: The film is available for rent at $3.99 or for purchase at $12.99. It can be watched on all Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, and Apple TV.
3. Google Play Movies & TV: Nell is available to rent for $3.99 or buy for $9.99. You can stream it on Android devices, Chromecast, and other compatible platforms.
4. Vudu: On Vudu, the film can be rented for $3.99 or purchased for $9.99, with options to stream in SD or HD formats.
5. YouTube Movies: You can rent Nell on YouTube Movies for $3.99 or purchase it for $9.99. It’s available for viewing on any device that supports YouTube.

Conclusion: Is Nell Worth Watching?

Nell (1994) is a deeply moving and thought-provoking film anchored by Jodie Foster’s incredible performance. Its exploration of human nature, communication, and societal expectations makes it a timeless piece of cinema. While some may find the film’s pacing slow, those who appreciate character-driven dramas and thematic depth will likely find Nell to be a rewarding and emotional experience.

With various streaming and rental options available, Nell is a must-watch for fans of Jodie Foster and those who enjoy films that challenge conventional notions of society, language, and human connection.