Regarding Henry (1991) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Regarding Henry is a compelling drama from 1991, directed by Mike Nichols and written by J.J. Abrams, that delves into the complex themes of trauma, redemption, and personal transformation. Starring Harrison Ford in one of his most emotionally charged performances, the film tells the story of a ruthless, high-powered lawyer whose life is drastically altered after a near-fatal incident. Regarding Henry explores how a single moment can change everything, forcing a man to reassess his values, relationships, and identity.
In this review, we’ll discuss the film’s plot, performances, and themes, as well as where you can stream or purchase it online in the U.S.
Overview of Regarding Henry
Directed by: Mike Nichols
Written by: J.J. Abrams
Starring: Harrison Ford, Annette Bening, Mikki Allen, Bill Nunn
Runtime: 1h 48m
Genre: Drama
Regarding Henry follows Henry Turner (Harrison Ford), a successful but cold and morally questionable Manhattan lawyer. At the height of his career, Henry seems to have it all—wealth, power, and a seemingly perfect family. However, his sharp, aggressive demeanor has created distance between him and his wife Sarah (Annette Bening) and their daughter Rachel (Mikki Allen).
When Henry is shot in the head during a convenience store robbery, he survives but suffers significant brain damage. The injury leaves him with physical disabilities and severe memory loss, forcing him to relearn everything—from basic motor functions to how to speak and interact with those around him. As Henry embarks on this challenging journey, he slowly begins to rediscover the man he used to be and reevaluates the life he led before the accident.
Plot Breakdown: A Journey of Transformation
The film opens with Henry living a life of excess and detachment. As a high-powered attorney, he’s known for his ruthless tactics in court, showing little regard for the ethical implications of his work. At home, Henry’s strained relationship with Sarah and Rachel is evident. He’s emotionally distant, more invested in his career than in his family.
Henry’s world comes crashing down when he is shot during a robbery, leaving him in critical condition. The bullet damages the parts of his brain responsible for motor skills and memory, rendering him a shell of his former self. The movie then shifts its focus to Henry’s recovery process, showing how he has to rebuild his life from scratch—physically, mentally, and emotionally.
As Henry undergoes rehabilitation, he develops a closer bond with his physical therapist, Bradley (Bill Nunn), who helps him navigate his new reality. Throughout the recovery, Henry’s personality changes drastically. He becomes kinder, more empathetic, and, in many ways, more childlike. This transformation allows him to reconnect with Sarah and Rachel, leading to moments of emotional reconciliation that drive the heart of the story.
What Worked in Regarding Henry
1. Harrison Ford’s Performance
Ford delivers one of his most nuanced performances in Regarding Henry. Known for his action roles in films like Indiana Jones and Star Wars, Ford steps outside his comfort zone here, portraying a man in the midst of a profound emotional and physical journey. His ability to convey the vulnerability of a man who has lost everything—yet gains so much more in the process—cements Ford as a versatile actor. His portrayal of Henry’s struggles, both physical and emotional, is heartfelt and convincing.
2. Annette Bening as Sarah Turner
Annette Bening gives a strong performance as Sarah, Henry’s wife. Initially portrayed as a distant partner, Sarah evolves into a supportive and loving spouse who helps Henry navigate his new reality. Her character’s journey is equally important to the film, as she grapples with her role as a caregiver while rediscovering her own sense of love and connection with her husband.
3. Themes of Redemption and Rebirth
Regarding Henry explores powerful themes of second chances and personal transformation. The film asks important questions about identity, morality, and the value of human connections. Henry’s injury acts as a metaphorical rebirth, giving him an opportunity to rebuild his life with a new set of priorities. What makes the film resonate is its message about how people can change, not just in superficial ways but at their very core.
4. Emotional Depth
At its core, Regarding Henry is an emotionally charged film that deals with human vulnerability. As Henry rebuilds his life, the emotional dynamics between him and his family change, providing a tender exploration of the complexities of love, forgiveness, and acceptance. The movie emphasizes the fragility of life and how easily it can change in an instant.
What Fell Short in Regarding Henry
1. Predictability
While Regarding Henry is deeply emotional, its narrative follows a somewhat predictable trajectory. The “fall from grace and subsequent redemption” plotline has been explored in other films, and the structure here doesn’t break much new ground. Some critics have pointed out that the film’s emotional beats can feel overly sentimental, especially toward the end.
2. Pacing Issues
The film’s pacing is uneven at times, particularly in the second act when Henry’s recovery process takes center stage. While the scenes of rehabilitation are important to the story, they can occasionally drag, slowing down the film’s momentum.
The Legacy of Regarding Henry
Regarding Henry is a film that often flies under the radar when discussing Harrison Ford’s filmography, but it remains an important work in his career, showcasing his range as an actor. The film also marked the early screenwriting efforts of J.J. Abrams, who would later go on to create iconic TV shows like Lost and direct blockbuster films such as Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
Although Regarding Henry didn’t become a box office juggernaut, it has found a lasting audience thanks to its touching portrayal of personal transformation and the strength of its performances.
Where to Watch Regarding Henry Online
If you’re looking to stream Regarding Henry in the U.S., here are the available options:
1. Paramount+
Regarding Henry is currently available for streaming on Paramount+. The platform offers a variety of classic films, and a subscription will give you access to this film as well as others in its extensive library.
2. Amazon Prime Video
You can rent or purchase Regarding Henry on Amazon Prime Video. The rental price typically starts at $2.99, and purchasing the movie costs around $9.99, depending on the resolution (SD or HD).
3. Apple TV
Apple TV offers Regarding Henry for rent and purchase. Rental prices start at $3.99, with the option to buy it for around $9.99.
4. Google Play Movies & TV
You can also rent or purchase the movie on Google Play Movies & TV. Rentals start at $2.99, and purchasing the film costs around $9.99.
5. Vudu
Vudu offers Regarding Henry for rental or purchase. Rentals typically cost $2.99, and the price to purchase is around $9.99.
Final Thoughts on Regarding Henry
Regarding Henry is an understated, deeply emotional film that focuses on the transformative power of trauma and recovery. While the story itself may not break new ground, the film’s performances, particularly from Harrison Ford and Annette Bening, elevate it into a poignant drama about personal redemption and the reassessment of one’s life.
If you’re in the mood for a heartfelt story about second chances, Regarding Henry is well worth the watch and is available for streaming on multiple platforms, including Paramount+ and Amazon Prime Video.
