Pig (2021) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Pig is a 2021 drama directed by Michael Sarnoski, starring Nicolas Cage in one of his most unique and critically acclaimed roles in recent years. The film tells the story of Rob, a reclusive truffle forager living in the forests of Oregon, who embarks on a journey to find his beloved foraging pig after it’s stolen. Far from being a typical revenge or action film, Pig is a quiet, meditative exploration of grief, identity, and human connection.
For those who appreciate introspective, character-driven films, Pig offers a deeply emotional experience. In this review, we’ll examine the film’s standout elements and let you know where to watch it online in the U.S.
Plot Overview
Rob (Nicolas Cage) lives in isolation in the forests of Oregon, relying on his faithful pig to help him forage truffles, which he sells to Amir (Alex Wolff), a young and ambitious businessman in the city. Rob’s quiet, secluded life is shattered when his beloved pig is violently stolen one night. With few resources and an air of mystery surrounding his past, Rob sets off on a journey to retrieve the animal that means more to him than just a source of income.
The film slowly unveils Rob’s complex character and his previous life as a renowned chef in Portland’s culinary world, which he left behind due to personal tragedy. As he reconnects with people from his past, Rob’s quest becomes less about the pig itself and more about confronting his own grief, loss, and humanity.
Film Analysis
Pig defies expectations by eschewing the typical revenge narrative one might expect from a film starring Nicolas Cage. Instead of a violent rampage, Rob’s search for his pig is quiet, thoughtful, and deeply personal. Director Michael Sarnoski creates a meditative tone, emphasizing human emotion and vulnerability over action.
Nicolas Cage’s performance is a revelation, marked by restraint and intensity. Rob is a man of few words, yet every glance and gesture speaks volumes about his pain and inner turmoil. Cage embodies a sense of quiet desperation, and his portrayal of grief and loss is one of the most nuanced and moving performances of his career.
The film’s cinematography beautifully captures the serene yet somber atmosphere of the Oregon wilderness and the bustling, often pretentious culinary world of Portland. These contrasting settings reflect Rob’s internal struggle between the life he left behind and the solitude he now seeks. The cinematography, paired with an evocative score by Alexis Grapsas and Philip Klein, enhances the film’s reflective tone.
One of Pig’s most powerful themes is its exploration of identity and connection. Rob’s journey is not just about reclaiming his pig, but also about reconnecting with a world he’s abandoned and confronting the people he once knew. His interactions with Amir reveal a mentorship dynamic, while his re-entry into Portland’s culinary scene uncovers layers of regret and unresolved emotional scars.
The film also makes a pointed commentary on the value of authenticity in a world obsessed with status and success. Rob’s simple existence and genuine love for his pig contrast sharply with the superficial world of fine dining, where ambition often eclipses true passion.
Where to Watch Pig Online in the U.S.
If you’re interested in watching this heartfelt, introspective film, here are the platforms where Pig is available for streaming, rental, and purchase in the U.S.
Streaming Services
- Hulu
Pig is available for streaming on Hulu, which offers a subscription starting at $7.99/month. Hulu subscribers can enjoy the film as part of their membership, along with access to a wide variety of movies and TV shows. The film is available in HD, and Hulu’s user-friendly interface allows for streaming on multiple devices. - Amazon Prime Video (with Showtime Add-On)
While Pig is not available for free on Amazon Prime Video, it can be streamed through the Showtime add-on, which costs $10.99/month in addition to your Prime subscription. This option provides access to Pig and other premium content from Showtime, making it a valuable add-on for film enthusiasts. - Showtime Anytime
Pig is also available for streaming directly through the Showtime Anytime app or website. If you have a Showtime subscription through your cable provider or a standalone Showtime streaming plan, you can watch the film at no additional cost. Showtime subscriptions start at $10.99/month, and the app allows streaming on multiple devices.
Rental & Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video
Pig is available for digital rental and purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Renting the film costs $5.99 in HD, and purchasing it ranges from $9.99 to $14.99, depending on the format and quality. Amazon offers a convenient viewing experience with support for multiple devices, making it a great option for those looking to rent or own the film. - Apple iTunes
On iTunes, Pig is available for rent at $5.99 or purchase at $9.99. Apple users can stream the film in HD or download it to their devices for offline viewing. iTunes is an excellent platform for Apple users who want a seamless, high-quality viewing experience. - Google Play Movies & TV
Pig is available for rent at $5.99 or purchase at $9.99 on Google Play Movies & TV. The platform supports streaming on Android devices and any browser connected to your Google account, making it a convenient option for Android users and those who prefer to watch movies on the go. - Vudu
Vudu also provides Pig for digital rental and purchase. Renting costs $5.99, and purchasing the film in HD costs $9.99. Vudu offers a reliable and flexible platform for viewers who want to stream the movie without a subscription.
Other Streaming Services
Currently, Pig is not available on major platforms like Netflix or HBO Max. However, with its wide availability across Hulu, Showtime, and various rental services, viewers in the U.S. have plenty of options to watch this touching and thought-provoking film.
Conclusion: Why Pig Is a Must-Watch
Pig is a beautifully crafted film that defies the conventions of the revenge-thriller genre to deliver a story about grief, love, and human connection. Nicolas Cage’s restrained yet powerful performance as Rob elevates the film to something far more profound than its premise suggests. Director Michael Sarnoski’s thoughtful direction, combined with stunning cinematography and a deeply emotional narrative, makes Pig one of the most memorable films of 2021.
The film’s quiet, meditative nature will resonate with viewers who appreciate character-driven stories, and its exploration of identity, loss, and authenticity adds layers of depth to what could have been a simple tale of vengeance. Pig reminds us of the importance of the things we hold dear and the people we connect with, making it a truly unique and moving cinematic experience.
With multiple streaming and rental options available, Pig is easily accessible to a wide audience. Whether you’re a fan of Nicolas Cage or just looking for a deeply emotional film, Pig is a must-watch.
Watch Pig today and discover a story that goes far beyond its simple premise to explore the depths of human emotion and connection.
