Skyscraper (2018) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Skyscraper, released in 2018 and directed by Rawson Marshall Thurber, is an action-packed thriller starring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. The film follows Will Sawyer, a former FBI agent and amputee security expert, as he battles against all odds to save his family from a blazing fire in the world’s tallest building. Featuring high-octane stunts, intense drama, and jaw-dropping visuals, Skyscraper promises non-stop thrills, making it a classic “summer blockbuster.”
In this review, we’ll dive into the plot, key themes, performances, and where to stream or rent Skyscraper online in the U.S.
Plot Summary
Skyscraper centers around Will Sawyer (Dwayne Johnson), who, after a tragic accident during his FBI days, now works as a security consultant. Will is hired to assess security protocols for “The Pearl,” a state-of-the-art, 240-floor skyscraper in Hong Kong, the tallest building in the world. The building’s wealthy owner, Zhao Long Ji (Chin Han), takes pride in the structure’s technological advancements and impeccable security system.
However, a group of terrorists led by Kores Botha (Roland Møller) infiltrates the skyscraper, sets the upper floors ablaze, and frames Will for the attack. With the authorities pursuing him, Will must not only clear his name but also find a way to rescue his wife Sarah (Neve Campbell) and their two children trapped inside the burning building—all while battling terrorists and navigating the dangers of the towering inferno.
Themes of Courage, Family, and Survival
At its heart, Skyscraper is a story of survival and the lengths a father will go to protect his family. The film highlights themes of courage in the face of overwhelming odds and determination, with Will’s love for his family driving his superhuman feats. As a former soldier turned civilian, Will also grapples with his own physical limitations due to his prosthetic leg, which is a central aspect of his character.
The skyscraper itself acts as a metaphor for the towering challenges Will must face. As the fire and the terrorists close in, the tension escalates, pushing Will to rely on his training, resourcefulness, and inner strength to overcome seemingly impossible hurdles.
Standout Performances
- Dwayne Johnson as Will Sawyer: Johnson’s portrayal of Will Sawyer anchors the film. Known for his physically imposing roles, Johnson brings a grounded yet heroic quality to the character. His performance emphasizes not only Will’s physical strength but also his emotional vulnerability, making him relatable despite the larger-than-life scenario. The dynamic between Will’s determination to save his family and his personal struggle with his disability adds depth to the character.
- Neve Campbell as Sarah Sawyer: Neve Campbell brings a refreshing presence as Sarah, Will’s capable and determined wife. Instead of playing the damsel in distress, Sarah is portrayed as an active participant in the fight for survival, showcasing her own strength and resourcefulness. Campbell’s chemistry with Johnson elevates the family dynamic, making the stakes feel real and emotionally resonant.
- Roland Møller as Kores Botha: Møller’s role as the villain is menacing and calculated. While the character is somewhat one-dimensional, Møller brings an intimidating presence to the role, driving the plot’s action sequences forward.
Action and Cinematography
Skyscraper is designed to thrill, and it delivers with jaw-dropping action sequences and incredible stunts. Whether it’s Will scaling the exterior of the towering building using nothing but duct tape and sheer willpower or a heart-pounding leap from a construction crane into the building, the film pushes the boundaries of believability but with thrilling spectacle.
Cinematographer Robert Elswit captures the vast height and the disorienting scale of the skyscraper, often using sweeping, vertigo-inducing shots to emphasize the perilous heights and danger. The fire sequences are also well-executed, with the visual effects team creating realistic and terrifying scenarios as the fire spreads through the upper floors.
Critical Reception and Legacy
Skyscraper received mixed reviews from critics. Many praised Dwayne Johnson’s performance and the film’s entertaining action sequences but criticized its predictable plot and lack of originality. Comparisons were often made to classic action films such as Die Hard and The Towering Inferno, but despite these similarities, Skyscraper manages to carve out its own niche thanks to Johnson’s charisma and the sheer spectacle of the action.
While it may not have reached the same cultural impact as some of the films it draws inspiration from, Skyscraper serves as an enjoyable action-packed summer movie that doesn’t require too much thought—just a thrill ride for those who love a good action blockbuster.
Where to Watch Skyscraper (2018) Online
For those interested in experiencing the high-flying, action-packed adventure of Skyscraper, here are some of the available streaming and rental options in the U.S.:
1. Amazon Prime Video
Skyscraper is available to rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Rental prices typically start at $3.99, while purchase prices range around $9.99. The film is available in HD, making it easy to enjoy the action sequences in high quality.
2. Apple TV (iTunes)
You can rent or buy Skyscraper on Apple TV (iTunes), with rental prices beginning at $3.99 and purchases at around $9.99. The film can be streamed on all Apple devices in HD.
3. Google Play Movies & YouTube
Skyscraper is available on both Google Play Movies and YouTube for rent or purchase. Rental prices start at $3.99, and purchase options are around $9.99. Both platforms support HD streaming across various devices.
4. Vudu
Vudu offers Skyscraper for rent and purchase with similar pricing—$3.99 for rentals and $9.99 for purchases. Vudu provides HD streaming options across many platforms, making it a great choice for high-quality viewing.
5. Peacock
As of now, Skyscraper is available for streaming on Peacock. If you have a subscription to Peacock, you can watch the film at no additional cost. It’s a great option for viewers who want to experience the action without rental fees.
Conclusion: Is Skyscraper Worth Watching?
Skyscraper is a thrilling, heart-pounding action movie designed to entertain. While its plot may be formulaic, Dwayne Johnson’s star power, along with jaw-dropping stunts and high-octane sequences, makes it an enjoyable watch for fans of the action genre. The film’s focus on family and survival adds an emotional layer that elevates it beyond just spectacle.
Whether you’re in the mood for a high-stakes rescue mission, impressive stunts, or simply a Dwayne Johnson action-fix, Skyscraper delivers on all fronts. With a variety of streaming and rental options available, you can easily dive into this action-packed adventure today.
