Ravenous (1999) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Ravenous (1999) is a unique entry into the horror genre that blends elements of dark comedy, historical drama, and cannibalistic horror. Directed by Antonia Bird and featuring a star-studded cast, including Guy Pearce and Robert Carlyle, the film offers a chilling and often darkly humorous take on the classic cannibal myth. This review will delve into the film’s plot, characters, and themes, and provide information on where you can stream or rent it online.
Plot Overview: A Cannibalistic Nightmare in the Wilderness
Ravenous is set in the mid-19th century and follows a group of soldiers stationed at a remote outpost who become entangled in a gruesome series of events involving cannibalism and survival.
The Premise
The story unfolds during the Mexican-American War, where Captain John Boyd (Guy Pearce) and his team are stationed at a desolate fort. Their routine existence is shattered when a survivor of a wagon train massacre, Colqhoun (Robert Carlyle), arrives with a horrifying tale of cannibalism.
Key Plot Points
- The Arrival of Colqhoun: Colqhoun’s arrival at the fort brings unsettling news about his fellow travelers and the dire circumstances they faced. His story hints at a dark and horrific truth that soon unfolds.
- Cannibalistic Horrors: As the soldiers investigate further, they discover the horrifying truth about Colqhoun’s survival tactics. The film explores themes of cannibalism and the lengths to which people will go for survival.
- Survival and Betrayal: The film delves into the psychological and physical challenges faced by the soldiers as they grapple with the reality of their situation and the threat posed by Colqhoun.
Characters and Performances
Captain John Boyd (Guy Pearce)
Guy Pearce plays Captain John Boyd, a soldier whose guilt over a wartime act leads him to the remote fort. Pearce delivers a compelling performance that captures Boyd’s internal conflict and growing horror.
Colqhoun (Robert Carlyle)
Robert Carlyle’s portrayal of Colqhoun is central to the film’s horror and dark humor. Carlyle’s performance as the charismatic yet sinister figure adds depth to the film’s exploration of cannibalism and moral decay.
Supporting Cast
- David Arquette: Appears as Private Cleaves, one of Boyd’s fellow soldiers. Arquette’s role adds both comedic relief and tension to the film.
- Jeffrey Jones: Plays the fort’s commanding officer, providing a critical role in the film’s exploration of leadership and survival.
Supporting Characters
The supporting cast includes other soldiers and characters whose interactions with Boyd and Colqhoun contribute to the film’s narrative and themes.
Themes: Cannibalism, Survival, and Dark Humor
Ravenous explores several key themes:
Cannibalism and Survival
At the heart of the film is the theme of cannibalism, exploring how extreme circumstances can lead individuals to abandon moral and ethical boundaries. The film examines the psychological and physical impact of such acts on both the perpetrators and the victims.
Psychological Horror
The film delves into psychological horror, highlighting the mental and emotional toll of facing such extreme and grotesque situations. The characters’ descent into madness and the effects of isolation are central to the story.
Dark Humor
Ravenous incorporates dark humor into its narrative, using it to both relieve tension and enhance the film’s unique tone. The blend of horror and comedy sets the film apart from more straightforward horror entries.
Reception and Legacy
Ravenous received mixed to positive reviews upon its release. Critics praised its originality, dark humor, and the performances of Pearce and Carlyle, though some found its blend of genres and themes uneven. Over time, the film has gained a cult following for its distinctive take on the horror genre and its memorable performances.
The film’s unique approach to cannibalistic horror and its mix of genres have cemented its place as a notable and unconventional entry in horror cinema.
Where to Watch Ravenous (1999) Online
If you’re interested in watching Ravenous, here’s where you can find it:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: The film may be available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video, either through a subscription or as a rental/purchase option.
- Hulu: Check Hulu for availability. The film may be part of their catalog or available through other channels.
Rental and Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase. Rentals typically start at $3.99, with purchase options around $14.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: The film can be rented or purchased, with rentals starting at $3.99 and purchases around $14.99.
- Apple TV/iTunes: Available for rent or purchase through Apple TV, with similar pricing to other digital platforms.
- Vudu: Offers rental and purchase options, starting at $3.99 for rentals and $14.99 for purchases.
Conclusion: A Unique and Gruesome Horror Experience
Ravenous (1999) stands out for its blend of horror, dark comedy, and historical drama. With strong performances by Guy Pearce and Robert Carlyle, and a compelling exploration of cannibalism and survival, the film offers a distinct and memorable viewing experience. Available for streaming on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and through various rental and purchase options, Ravenous is a must-watch for fans of unconventional horror and darkly comedic cinema.
