Paterson (2016) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Paterson (2016) is a contemplative drama film directed by Jim Jarmusch, known for his distinctive, minimalist storytelling style. The film stars Adam Driver and Golshifteh Farahani and is celebrated for its gentle exploration of daily life and the art of poetry. Set in the small town of Paterson, New Jersey, the film offers a poetic reflection on the ordinary moments that make up a person’s life.
Plot Summary
The film follows **Paterson (played by Adam Driver), a bus driver and aspiring poet who lives in the city of Paterson, New Jersey. The story unfolds over the course of a week, highlighting the beauty in the mundane aspects of daily life:
- Daily Routine: Paterson’s life revolves around his routine as a bus driver. He follows a daily schedule, observing the lives of his passengers and reflecting on their stories.
- Poetry and Inspiration: Paterson finds inspiration for his poetry in the everyday moments he experiences. His poems reflect his observations of life, love, and the world around him.
- Personal Relationships: The film also explores Paterson’s relationships with his wife, Laura (played by Golshifteh Farahani), and his dog, Marvin. Laura supports Paterson’s artistic aspirations while pursuing her own creative interests, such as designing and baking cupcakes.
- Community and Observations: Through Paterson’s interactions with the people in his community and his observations of the city, the film captures the essence of small-town life and the personal connections that define it.
Paterson is characterized by its quiet, introspective narrative and its focus on the beauty found in everyday life.
Critical Reception
Paterson has been widely praised for its meditative and thoughtful approach. Here’s a summary of the critical reception:
Strengths:
- Performance: Adam Driver’s portrayal of Paterson is subtle and nuanced, capturing the character’s inner life and quiet dedication to his craft. Golshifteh Farahani also delivers a warm and supportive performance as Laura.
- Direction and Writing: Jim Jarmusch’s direction and screenplay are praised for their simplicity and depth. The film’s contemplative nature and focus on the small details of life are handled with elegance and authenticity.
- Cinematography and Score: The film’s cinematography, by Frederick Elmes, and its musical score contribute to its reflective and calming atmosphere. The visual style complements the film’s themes of observation and introspection.
Weaknesses:
- Pacing and Plot: Some viewers may find the film’s slow pace and lack of a conventional plot to be a drawback. The film’s emphasis on mood and character over plot may not appeal to everyone.
- Narrative Focus: The film’s focus on the mundane aspects of life might be seen as uneventful or lacking in dramatic tension by some viewers.
Overall, Paterson is celebrated for its unique approach to storytelling and its ability to find beauty in the ordinary. The film’s gentle and contemplative nature makes it a memorable and thought-provoking experience.
Themes and Analysis
Paterson explores several significant themes:
- The Beauty of the Ordinary: The film emphasizes finding beauty and meaning in everyday life. Paterson’s poetry reflects the significance of ordinary moments and the art of observation.
- Art and Creativity: The film highlights the role of art and creativity in personal fulfillment. Paterson’s poems and Laura’s artistic pursuits underscore the importance of creative expression in their lives.
- Routine and Change: The film examines the balance between routine and change. Paterson’s daily life is marked by repetition, but it also reveals the subtle changes and new experiences that arise.
- Community and Connection: The interactions between Paterson and the people in his community illustrate the value of human connections and the impact of small, everyday encounters.
Where to Watch Paterson Online
If you’re interested in watching Paterson (2016), here are some options:
1. Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: Paterson may be available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Check the platform for current availability and subscription details.
- Hulu: The film might also be available on Hulu in certain regions. Check the platform for availability and regional offerings.
2. Rental/Purchase Services
- Amazon Video: You can rent or purchase Paterson on Amazon Video. Rental prices typically start around $3.99, with purchase options available for approximately $14.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Google Play offers rental and purchase options for Paterson. Rentals generally cost around $3.99, while purchasing the film starts at about $14.99.
- Apple iTunes: The film is available for rental or purchase on Apple iTunes. Rentals usually cost about $3.99, and purchasing the film generally costs $14.99.
- Vudu: Vudu provides rental and purchase options for Paterson. Rental prices are similar to other platforms, starting around $3.99, and purchasing the film generally costs about $14.99.
Conclusion
Paterson (2016) is a reflective and contemplative film that offers a unique exploration of daily life and creativity. Directed by Jim Jarmusch and featuring strong performances by Adam Driver and Golshifteh Farahani, the film is notable for its gentle, introspective narrative and its focus on the beauty of the ordinary.
With its emphasis on finding meaning in everyday moments and its distinctive storytelling style, Paterson stands out as a thoughtful and engaging film. Available on various streaming and rental platforms, it provides an opportunity to experience a meditative and original cinematic experience.
