Self/less (2015) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Self/less (2015) is a sci-fi thriller that blends futuristic technology with moral dilemmas. Directed by Tarsem Singh and starring Ryan Reynolds and Ben Kingsley, the film explores the concept of immortality and identity. It offers an intriguing premise where a wealthy, terminally ill man transfers his consciousness into a younger body, but soon discovers that there’s a dark truth behind the procedure. This review covers the film’s narrative, performances, and the ethical questions it raises, as well as where you can stream or rent Self/less online in the U.S.
Plot Overview: What If You Could Live Forever?
In Self/less, the story revolves around Damian Hale (Ben Kingsley), a wealthy New York real estate mogul who is dying from cancer. Determined to extend his life, Damian undergoes a controversial medical procedure known as “shedding,” where his consciousness is transferred into a younger, healthier body (Ryan Reynolds). The procedure, spearheaded by a shadowy corporation, promises a new lease on life, but comes with one significant catch: the body Damian inhabits wasn’t artificially created—it belonged to someone else.
As Damian adjusts to his new life as Edward, he begins experiencing disturbing flashes of memories that seem to belong to the body’s previous owner. These visions lead him down a dangerous path, unraveling the truth about the body’s origin and the corporation behind the shedding process. Damian must decide whether to continue living in this new body or to seek justice for the man whose life was stolen.
Self/less asks viewers to grapple with difficult questions about identity, morality, and the human desire for immortality. Is it ethical to take over another person’s life to extend your own? And at what cost?
Ryan Reynolds and Ben Kingsley: Dual Performances
One of the film’s most interesting aspects is its dual-lead dynamic. Ben Kingsley portrays Damian Hale in the first part of the movie, capturing the character’s desperation and willingness to go to any length to cheat death. Kingsley, with his gravitas and seasoned acting, presents Damian as a man whose vast wealth has given him control over everything except time.
Ryan Reynolds takes over the role when Damian becomes Edward. While Reynolds is known for his charismatic, often humorous performances, in Self/less, he plays a more serious, contemplative character, balancing the action sequences with moments of introspection. As Edward, Reynolds effectively conveys the internal struggle of a man grappling with the knowledge that his new life comes at the expense of another. The shift between Kingsley’s and Reynolds’ portrayals is seamless, and both actors handle the transition well.
Exploring the Ethics of Immortality
At the heart of Self/less lies an ethical debate: How far should science go in the pursuit of prolonging human life? The shedding process offers the ultimate escape from death, but it comes at the price of someone else’s life. The movie raises moral questions about the ethics of using another human body to achieve immortality, especially when the truth behind the shedding procedure is far more sinister than it appears.
While the concept of living forever is enticing, Self/less makes viewers consider the consequences of such an act. The film taps into philosophical discussions about identity—whether our consciousness alone defines who we are, or if the body we inhabit plays an integral role. This is one of the film’s strongest thematic points, even if the execution sometimes falls into familiar sci-fi tropes.
Visuals and Cinematic Style
Tarsem Singh is known for his visually striking films, such as The Fall and Immortals, and while Self/less may not be as visually bold, it maintains a sleek, polished aesthetic. The film’s futuristic elements are grounded in a near-future setting, with clean, minimalist designs for the high-tech labs and a contrast of modern urban environments against more rural, rustic settings.
The action sequences are tightly choreographed, especially the high-speed chases and gunfights. These scenes provide the film with much of its momentum, keeping the audience engaged as Damian/Edward uncovers the darker truths behind the shedding process. Though the action is well-executed, Self/less doesn’t stray too far from conventional sci-fi thriller territory, relying on familiar genre beats to drive the story forward.
Critical Reception: A Mixed Bag
Self/less received mixed reviews from critics upon its release. While the concept and performances, particularly by Reynolds and Kingsley, were praised, the film was criticized for not fully capitalizing on its intriguing premise. Some viewers felt that the movie, which starts with thought-provoking philosophical questions, devolves into a more standard action thriller by the third act.
Despite these criticisms, Self/less offers enough entertainment and thematic depth to warrant a viewing, especially for fans of sci-fi films that explore moral quandaries. The film may not be groundbreaking, but it’s a solid entry into the genre and benefits from strong performances and a compelling central concept.
Where to Watch Self/less Online in the U.S.
If you’re interested in watching Self/less online, several streaming services and digital rental platforms in the U.S. offer the film. Here’s where you can find it:
Streaming Services
- Peacock
- Self/less is available to stream on Peacock, NBCUniversal’s streaming platform. With a Peacock Premium subscription, you can access the movie alongside other sci-fi and action titles.
- Amazon Prime Video (With STARZ Add-On)
- The film is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video with the STARZ channel add-on. This is a great option for Prime members who have access to the STARZ library.
- STARZ
- Subscribers to STARZ can stream Self/less directly through the STARZ app or website. The movie is part of their selection of sci-fi and action-thrillers.
Rental and Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video
- For those who prefer renting or purchasing, Self/less is available on Amazon Prime Video. Rental prices typically start at $3.99 for HD, while purchasing the movie costs around $9.99.
- Apple TV/iTunes
- Apple TV offers both rental and purchase options for Self/less. Renting costs around $3.99, and purchasing the film will typically be $9.99 to $12.99, depending on HD or SD quality.
- Google Play Movies & TV
- You can rent or buy Self/less on Google Play. Rental prices are generally $3.99, and purchasing the movie in HD will cost about $9.99.
- Vudu
- On Vudu, Self/less is available for both rent and purchase. Prices for rentals are $3.99, and purchasing the movie can range from $7.99 to $9.99, depending on any current promotions.
- YouTube Movies
- Self/less is also available on YouTube Movies for rent or purchase. Rentals are priced at $3.99, with purchases available starting at $9.99.
Final Thoughts: Is Self/less Worth Watching?
Self/less offers a compelling premise, exploring the lengths to which people will go to achieve immortality. While the film doesn’t dive as deeply into its philosophical themes as it could, it remains an entertaining sci-fi thriller with solid performances from both Ryan Reynolds and Ben Kingsley. The movie raises important ethical questions, even as it evolves into a more conventional action film in its later stages.
For viewers looking for a mix of sci-fi, action, and thought-provoking ideas, Self/less is a good option to consider. Its availability on various streaming platforms and rental services makes it easy to watch online in the U.S., whether you’re subscribed to Peacock, STARZ, or prefer to rent it on Amazon Prime Video or Google Play.
