Rough Night (2017) – Movie Review
Introduction
“Rough Night,” directed by Lucia Aniello and released in 2017, is a dark comedy that follows a group of friends whose bachelorette party weekend takes a wild turn. The film stars Scarlett Johansson, Kate McKinnon, Jillian Bell, Ilana Glazer, and Zoë Kravitz. This review covers the film’s plot, performances, direction, and where you can stream it in the USA.
Plot Summary
The story centers around five college friends who reunite in Miami for a bachelorette party. Jess (Scarlett Johansson), the bride-to-be, is joined by her friends Alice (Jillian Bell), Blair (Zoë Kravitz), Frankie (Ilana Glazer), and Pippa (Kate McKinnon). The celebration takes a disastrous turn when a male stripper accidentally dies during the party. The group must navigate the chaos and their own personal issues while trying to cover up the incident.
Performances
Scarlett Johansson leads the ensemble with a solid performance, balancing the comedic and dramatic aspects of her role. Kate McKinnon stands out with her eccentric and humorous portrayal of Pippa. Jillian Bell, Zoë Kravitz, and Ilana Glazer each bring their unique comedic talents to the film, creating a dynamic and entertaining group dynamic. The chemistry among the cast members is a highlight, adding to the film’s humor and emotional moments.
Direction and Cinematography
Lucia Aniello’s direction maintains a brisk pace, ensuring that the film’s comedic and dramatic elements blend seamlessly. The cinematography captures the vibrant and chaotic atmosphere of Miami, enhancing the film’s party vibe. While the movie leans heavily on slapstick humor and outrageous situations, Aniello manages to infuse moments of genuine emotion and character development.
Themes and Analysis
“Rough Night” explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the complexities of adult relationships. The film delves into how the characters’ lives have changed since college and how they navigate the pressures of adulthood. Despite the dark comedic premise, the movie emphasizes the importance of sticking together and supporting one another through difficult times.
Reception
The film received mixed reviews from critics. It was praised for its strong cast and humorous moments but criticized for its uneven tone and reliance on shock value. “Rough Night” holds a 44% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting its divisive reception. While some viewers enjoyed the wild humor and performances, others found the film’s darker elements jarring.
Streaming Availability
For viewers in the USA, “Rough Night” is available on several streaming platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rental or purchase.
- Apple iTunes: Offers rental and purchase options.
- Google Play Movies: Can be rented or purchased.
- Vudu: Available for rental and purchase.
- Netflix: Often included in the streaming lineup.
Conclusion
“Rough Night” is a wild and raunchy comedy that benefits from a strong ensemble cast and energetic direction. While its blend of dark humor and emotional moments may not appeal to everyone, it offers an entertaining ride for those who enjoy outrageous comedy. For a fun and chaotic movie night, check out “Rough Night” on the streaming platforms mentioned and join the misadventures of Jess and her friends.
