Movie Review: Rules Don’t Apply (2016) – A Quirky Romance Set Against Old Hollywood Glamour
Introduction
“Rules Don’t Apply,” directed by Warren Beatty, is a 2016 romantic dramedy set in the glamorous era of 1950s Hollywood. Featuring a star-studded cast including Lily Collins, Alden Ehrenreich, and Warren Beatty himself, the film explores themes of love, ambition, and the eccentricity of the legendary Howard Hughes. In this review, we delve into the charm and peculiarities of “Rules Don’t Apply” and provide details on where you can stream it in the United States.
Plot Overview
“Rules Don’t Apply” follows the story of Marla Mabrey (Lily Collins), a devoutly religious beauty queen from Virginia, who arrives in Hollywood with dreams of becoming a star. She is contracted to work for the enigmatic billionaire Howard Hughes (Warren Beatty), who has a strict rule that none of his actresses are to have relationships with his employees. Despite this, Marla finds herself drawn to her handsome young driver, Frank Forbes (Alden Ehrenreich). As Marla and Frank navigate their forbidden romance, they must contend with Hughes’ unpredictable behavior and the complexities of their own ambitions. The film weaves a narrative that blends romance, comedy, and the eccentricities of Hughes’ world.
Visuals and Cinematography
Warren Beatty’s direction brings a nostalgic and visually rich portrayal of 1950s Hollywood. Cinematographer Caleb Deschanel captures the era with lush, vibrant colors and meticulous attention to period detail. The film’s aesthetic effectively immerses the audience in the glamour and charm of Old Hollywood, while also highlighting the idiosyncrasies of its central characters.
Performances
Lily Collins shines as Marla Mabrey, bringing a mix of innocence, determination, and charm to her role. Alden Ehrenreich delivers a charismatic performance as Frank Forbes, balancing ambition with genuine affection for Marla. Warren Beatty’s portrayal of Howard Hughes is both captivating and enigmatic, capturing the complexity and eccentricity of the real-life figure. The supporting cast, including Annette Bening and Matthew Broderick, add depth and humor to the film.
Themes and Interpretation
“Rules Don’t Apply” explores themes of ambition, romance, and the clash between dreams and reality. The film delves into the idea of breaking societal norms and rules in the pursuit of love and personal fulfillment. It also examines the unpredictable nature of fame and the eccentricities of one of Hollywood’s most legendary figures, Howard Hughes.
Streaming Availability in the U.S.
As of 2024, “Rules Don’t Apply” is available for streaming on several platforms in the United States. You can watch “Rules Don’t Apply” on:
- Amazon Prime Video
- Hulu
For those who prefer renting or purchasing, the film can be found on:
- Amazon Prime Video
- Apple iTunes
- Google Play Movies
- YouTube
- Vudu
Conclusion
“Rules Don’t Apply” is a delightful and quirky film that offers a unique blend of romance, comedy, and historical intrigue. With strong performances from Lily Collins, Alden Ehrenreich, and Warren Beatty, the film captures the essence of 1950s Hollywood while telling a timeless story of love and ambition. Whether you’re streaming it for the first time or revisiting its charming narrative, “Rules Don’t Apply” provides an entertaining and nostalgic cinematic experience.
