Son of a Gun (2014) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Directed by Julius Avery, Son of a Gun (2014) is a gripping Australian crime thriller that follows the journey of a young man who becomes embroiled in the dangerous world of crime after being released from prison. With a mix of action, drama, and suspense, the film explores themes of loyalty, deception, and survival in a gritty underworld.
In this review, we’ll delve into the plot, character performances, themes, visual style, critical reception, and where to stream or rent Son of a Gun online in the U.S.
Plot Summary: A Dangerous Game of Trust
The story revolves around JR (played by Brenton Thwaites), a naive and young man who is sentenced to six months in prison. During his time inside, he becomes the protégé of Rufus Sevarin (played by Ewan McGregor), a notorious criminal who orchestrates a daring prison break. As JR is drawn deeper into Rufus’s world, he is forced to participate in a high-stakes heist involving gold bullion.
As the plot unfolds, JR grapples with the moral complexities of his choices, questioning his loyalty to Rufus and the implications of a life of crime. The film takes viewers through a series of intense situations, highlighting the dangers of trust in a world where betrayal lurks around every corner.
Cast and Performances: Strong Character Portrayals
The performances in Son of a Gun are a highlight of the film:
- Brenton Thwaites effectively portrays JR’s transformation from a vulnerable youth to a conflicted participant in crime. His performance captures the character’s internal struggle, making him relatable and engaging.
- Ewan McGregor shines as Rufus Sevarin, bringing charisma and complexity to the role. His portrayal of a manipulative yet enigmatic criminal adds depth to the film, keeping viewers on edge.
- Alicia Vikander plays Jocelyn, Rufus’s love interest, who becomes entangled in the dangerous game. Vikander delivers a compelling performance that enhances the emotional stakes of the story.
Themes: Loyalty, Betrayal, and Morality
Son of a Gun explores several significant themes:
- The nature of loyalty: The film examines the complexities of loyalty in criminal relationships, illustrating how trust can quickly turn to betrayal.
- Moral ambiguity: JR’s journey raises questions about morality and the choices individuals make in desperate situations, making viewers reflect on the gray areas of right and wrong.
- The consequences of crime: The film portrays the harsh realities of a life of crime, emphasizing the dangers and repercussions that accompany such a lifestyle.
Visual Style: Gritty and Engaging
The visual style of Son of a Gun effectively captures the tension and urgency of the narrative. The cinematography features a mix of gritty realism and stylish framing, immersing viewers in the underbelly of the criminal world. The action sequences are well-executed, adding a layer of excitement to the unfolding drama.
Critical Reception: Mixed but Notable Impact
Upon its release, Son of a Gun received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its engaging performances and tense narrative while others felt it relied on familiar tropes of the genre. Despite the mixed reception, the film found an audience, particularly among fans of crime thrillers who appreciate character-driven stories.
Where to Watch Son of a Gun Online in the U.S.
If you’re interested in watching Son of a Gun, here are some platforms in the U.S. where you can find it:
1. Amazon Prime Video
Available for rental or purchase.
- Rental Price: Approximately $3.99
- Purchase Price: Approximately $12.99
- Devices: Accessible on Fire TV, Roku, smart TVs, and mobile devices.
2. Google Play Movies & TV
Available for rental or purchase.
- Rental Price: Approximately $3.99
- Purchase Price: Approximately $12.99
- Devices: Compatible with Android devices, smart TVs, and Chromecast.
3. Apple TV (iTunes)
Available for rent or purchase in HD.
- Rental Price: Approximately $3.99
- Purchase Price: Approximately $12.99
- Devices: Watch on iPhones, iPads, Apple TVs, and Macs.
4. Vudu
Available for rental and purchase without a subscription.
- Rental Price: Approximately $3.99
- Purchase Price: Approximately $12.99
- Devices: Watch on Roku, smart TVs, and gaming consoles.
Conclusion: A Tense Exploration of Crime and Trust
Son of a Gun (2014) is a thrilling exploration of the moral complexities of crime, loyalty, and survival. With strong performances and a gripping narrative, the film resonates with anyone who enjoys character-driven crime dramas. For those looking for an intense and engaging story, Son of a Gun is available on various streaming and rental platforms in the U.S.
