Saint Maud (2020)

Saint Maud (2020) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online

Saint Maud (2020) is a psychological horror film directed by Rose Glass, known for its unsettling and atmospheric approach to the genre. Starring Morfydd Clark and Jennifer Ehle, the film delves into themes of faith, obsession, and the struggle between good and evil. Praised for its intense performances and thought-provoking narrative, Saint Maud offers a unique take on the horror genre.

In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, key performances, and thematic elements. We’ll also provide information on where you can stream or rent Saint Maud online in the U.S.

Plot Summary

Saint Maud follows Maud (Morfydd Clark), a hospice nurse who has recently converted to Christianity and is deeply devoted to her faith. Maud takes a job caring for Amanda (Jennifer Ehle), a terminally ill former dancer who is defiant about her fate and dismissive of religion.

As Maud becomes increasingly obsessed with saving Amanda’s soul, her behavior grows more erratic and her faith more intense. Maud’s personal struggles and psychological instability come to the forefront as she believes she is being called by God to perform a divine mission. The film builds tension as Maud’s actions and perceptions blur the lines between devotion and delusion, culminating in a disturbing and haunting conclusion.

Key Characters and Performances

• Maud (Morfydd Clark)
  Morfydd Clark delivers a gripping performance as Maud, portraying the character’s intense devotion and psychological unraveling with great skill. Her portrayal captures Maud’s inner turmoil and obsession, adding depth to the film’s horror elements.
• Amanda (Jennifer Ehle)
  Jennifer Ehle stars as Amanda, a terminally ill woman whose skepticism and defiance challenge Maud’s faith. Ehle’s performance provides a counterpoint to Maud’s character, creating a dynamic and engaging interaction between the two.
• Carol (Lise Gagnon)
  Lise Gagnon plays Carol, a colleague of Maud’s who becomes concerned about her behavior. Gagnon’s role adds another layer of complexity to the film, highlighting the impact of Maud’s actions on those around her.

What to Expect from Saint Maud

Strengths

1. Atmospheric Horror: Saint Maud excels in creating a tense and unsettling atmosphere. The film’s use of psychological horror and visual style enhances its sense of dread and emotional intensity.
2. Strong Performances: Morfydd Clark and Jennifer Ehle deliver standout performances that drive the film’s narrative. Clark’s portrayal of Maud’s descent into obsession is particularly compelling and adds significant impact to the film’s horror elements.
3. Thought-Provoking Themes: The film explores themes of faith, redemption, and the nature of evil in a nuanced and thought-provoking manner. The examination of Maud’s religious fervor and psychological state offers a deeper layer of meaning beyond conventional horror tropes.
4. Unique Approach: Saint Maud offers a fresh and original take on the horror genre, focusing on psychological and existential horror rather than traditional scares. This unique approach sets the film apart and makes it a standout entry in the genre.

Weaknesses

1. Slow Pacing: Some viewers may find the film’s pacing slow, particularly in the buildup to key plot points. The film’s focus on psychological depth and character development may affect its overall engagement for some audiences.
2. Ambiguous Ending: The film’s conclusion is intentionally ambiguous and open to interpretation. While this can be seen as a strength, it may also leave some viewers feeling unsatisfied or confused about the resolution.
3. Limited Scope: The film’s focus on Maud’s internal struggle and her relationship with Amanda may limit its exploration of broader themes or external conflicts. Some viewers may find the film’s scope narrow in terms of addressing wider societal or religious issues.

Direction and Cinematography

Rose Glass’s direction is notable for its meticulous attention to psychological and atmospheric detail. Her approach to blending horror with character study creates a compelling and immersive experience. Glass’s use of visual and auditory elements enhances the film’s sense of dread and contributes to its overall impact.

The cinematography, by Mark Jenkin, complements the film’s tone with its use of moody lighting and intimate framing. The visual style enhances the film’s portrayal of Maud’s mental state and the unsettling atmosphere of her surroundings.

Where to Watch Saint Maud Online in the U.S.

Streaming Services

Saint Maud is available for streaming on several platforms:

1. Amazon Prime Video
   • The film can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video. Rentals typically cost around $3.99, while purchases range from $9.99 to $14.99.
2. Apple TV+
   • Saint Maud is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV+, with rental prices typically around $3.99 and purchase options starting at $9.99.
3. Google Play Movies
   • The film can be rented or purchased on Google Play Movies, with rentals at $3.99 and purchases ranging from $9.99 to $14.99.
4. Vudu
   • Saint Maud is available for streaming on Vudu, with options for rent or purchase. Rentals are generally around $3.99, and purchases range from $9.99 to $14.99.

Rental and Purchase Options

For additional rental and purchase options, you can also check:

• YouTube Movies
• Microsoft Store

Rental prices generally range from $2.99 to $4.99, with purchase options typically falling between $9.99 and $14.99.

Physical Media

Saint Maud is available on DVD and Blu-ray, which can be purchased through major retailers such as Amazon and Walmart. Special editions may include bonus features such as behind-the-scenes content, interviews with the cast and crew, and commentary.

Conclusion

Saint Maud (2020) is a compelling and thought-provoking psychological horror film that delves into themes of faith, obsession, and the nature of evil. With strong performances from Morfydd Clark and Jennifer Ehle, and a unique approach to horror, the film offers a fresh and intense viewing experience. Available for streaming and digital rental or purchase, Saint Maud is a recommended choice for fans of psychological horror and those interested in exploring the complexities of belief and madness.