Son of Saul (2015)

Son of Saul (2015) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online

Son of Saul (2015) is a harrowing and poignant drama directed by László Nemes, which presents a visceral and intense portrayal of life in the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp during World War II. The film has garnered critical acclaim for its powerful depiction of the Holocaust and its innovative storytelling techniques. This review will delve into the film’s plot, themes, and where to stream, rent, or purchase it online in the United States.

Plot Summary

Son of Saul follows Saul Ausländer (played by Géza Röhrig), a Jewish-Hungarian prisoner who works as a Sonderkommando—a group of prisoners forced to assist the Nazis in the extermination process. Saul’s role involves the grim task of disposing of the bodies of those murdered in the gas chambers. The film’s narrative focuses on a harrowing period in Saul’s life as he tries to find a way to give his son a proper Jewish burial.

After discovering a boy among the victims whom he believes to be his son, Saul is driven by the need to ensure that the boy’s body receives a proper burial according to Jewish customs. His quest for a proper burial unfolds amidst the relentless brutality and dehumanization of the camp, highlighting his struggle to retain his humanity and dignity in the face of overwhelming horror.

Themes and Analysis

Son of Saul explores several profound and challenging themes:

1. Human Dignity and Identity: The film delves into the struggle to maintain a sense of identity and dignity in an environment designed to strip individuals of their humanity. Saul’s quest to honor his son reflects his need to preserve his own humanity amidst the atrocities.
2. The Absurdity of War: The film underscores the senselessness and brutality of war, particularly the Holocaust. The oppressive and dehumanizing atmosphere of the concentration camp is portrayed with stark realism.
3. Memory and Legacy: Saul’s determination to provide a proper burial for the boy highlights the importance of memory and legacy. The film examines how individuals seek to leave behind a meaningful mark even in the direst circumstances.
4. Isolation and Despair: Saul’s isolation and despair are central to the film’s emotional impact. The narrative explores his inner turmoil and the emotional and psychological effects of his harrowing experiences.

László Nemes’ direction is notable for its immersive and intense approach. The film employs a distinctive visual style, often focusing closely on Saul’s face and using shallow focus to emphasize his personal experience against the backdrop of the larger horrors of the camp. The use of long takes and a relentless, almost claustrophobic camera style enhances the film’s emotional intensity and immersion.

Géza Röhrig delivers a powerful and moving performance as Saul, capturing the character’s internal struggle and desperation. The film’s authenticity and impact are further enhanced by its meticulous attention to historical detail and its unflinching portrayal of the Holocaust’s horrors.

Where to Watch Son of Saul (2015) Online

For those interested in watching Son of Saul, there are several options available for streaming, rental, and purchase in the United States.

Streaming Services

1. Hulu
   • Son of Saul is available for streaming on Hulu. Subscribers can watch the film at no additional cost as part of their subscription.
2. Amazon Prime Video
   • The film may also be available for streaming with an Amazon Prime subscription, depending on regional licensing agreements.

Rental/Purchase Services

1. Amazon Prime Video
   • Son of Saul can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video. Renting typically costs around $3.99, while purchasing it in HD is usually priced at $12.99.
2. Apple iTunes
   • The film is available for rent or purchase on Apple iTunes. Renting generally costs $3.99, and purchasing it is around $14.99.
3. Google Play Movies & TV
   • Google Play Movies & TV offers the film for rent or purchase. Pricing is similar to other digital platforms, providing another option for viewers.
4. Vudu
   • Vudu has Son of Saul available for rent or purchase. The prices are comparable to other platforms, and Vudu often has promotions that may offer discounts.
5. YouTube Movies
   • YouTube Movies provides Son of Saul for rent or purchase, with prices typically in line with other digital services.

Conclusion

Son of Saul (2015) is a gripping and emotionally charged film that offers a profound exploration of the human condition during one of history’s darkest periods. Directed by László Nemes and featuring a standout performance by Géza Röhrig, the film presents a harrowing and immersive depiction of the Holocaust.

Available for streaming on Hulu and potentially Amazon Prime Video, and for rental or purchase on platforms like Amazon, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies & TV, Vudu, and YouTube Movies, accessing this film is convenient and straightforward. Whether you are looking to engage with its intense portrayal of historical events or appreciate its artistic and emotional depth, Son of Saul provides a powerful and unforgettable viewing experience.