State of Grace (1990) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Introduction
“State of Grace” (1990) is a gritty crime drama that delves into the dark underworld of New York City’s Hell’s Kitchen, offering a powerful exploration of loyalty, betrayal, and the harsh realities of life in organized crime. Directed by Phil Joanou and featuring an impressive cast that includes Sean Penn, Ed Harris, Gary Oldman, and Robin Wright, “State of Grace” is a film that has gained a cult following over the years. In this article, we’ll review the film’s key aspects, its critical reception, and where you can watch it online.
Plot Summary
The film follows Terry Noonan (Sean Penn), an undercover cop who returns to his old neighborhood in Hell’s Kitchen after years away. He reconnects with his childhood friends, the Flannery brothers—Jackie (Gary Oldman), a volatile and unpredictable enforcer, and Frankie (Ed Harris), a rising figure in the Irish-American mob. As Terry becomes more deeply embedded in the criminal activities of the Flannerys, he faces an increasingly dangerous conflict between his duty as a cop and his loyalty to his old friends.
Tensions escalate as Terry’s secret begins to unravel, leading to a violent and tragic confrontation. “State of Grace” portrays the brutal consequences of living a double life and the inevitable betrayal that comes with it.
Critical Reception
Upon its release, “State of Grace” received mixed to positive reviews from critics. While it wasn’t a commercial success, the film was praised for its intense performances, particularly by Gary Oldman, whose portrayal of the unhinged Jackie Flannery is both terrifying and heartbreaking. Sean Penn also delivered a strong performance, effectively conveying the inner turmoil of a man torn between his past and his present duties.
The film’s direction by Phil Joanou and the atmospheric cinematography by Jordan Cronenweth were also highlighted as strengths, capturing the gritty, shadowy streets of Hell’s Kitchen with a sense of realism and foreboding. However, some critics felt that the film’s narrative was somewhat derivative of other crime dramas of the time, such as “Goodfellas,” which was released the same year. Despite these comparisons, “State of Grace” has since been reevaluated and is now considered a hidden gem of the genre.
Where to Watch State of Grace (1990) Online
If you’re looking to watch “State of Grace,” here are some of the streaming services and platforms where it is available, particularly in the United States:
- Amazon Prime Video
- Availability: “State of Grace” is available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Renting typically costs between $2.99 and $3.99, while purchasing can range from $9.99 to $12.99.
- Apple TV
- Availability: You can rent or purchase “State of Grace” on Apple TV. Rental prices are similar to Amazon, and purchasing the film usually costs around $9.99 to $14.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV
- Availability: The film is also available on Google Play Movies & TV for rent or purchase. Pricing is consistent with other digital platforms, making it accessible to a wide audience.
- YouTube Movies
- Availability: “State of Grace” can be rented or purchased on YouTube Movies. This platform offers convenience, as it can be accessed on virtually any device with an internet connection.
- Vudu
- Availability: Vudu offers the option to rent or buy “State of Grace.” The platform is known for its high-quality streaming options, making it a good choice for viewers looking for a seamless viewing experience.
- HBO Max
- Availability: Occasionally, “State of Grace” may be available on HBO Max as part of its rotating library of films. If you have an HBO Max subscription, it’s worth checking to see if the film is currently offered.
- DVD/Blu-ray
- Availability: For those who prefer physical media, “State of Grace” is available on DVD and Blu-ray. Collectors and fans of the film may appreciate owning a copy with special features and commentary.
Conclusion
“State of Grace” (1990) is a powerful crime drama that offers a raw and unflinching look at loyalty, betrayal, and the moral complexities of life in organized crime. With standout performances from its cast and a dark, atmospheric portrayal of Hell’s Kitchen, the film has earned its place as a cult classic. Whether you’re a fan of crime dramas or looking to discover an underrated gem from the 1990s, “State of Grace” is well worth watching.
Call to Action
Ready to dive into the gritty streets of Hell’s Kitchen? Choose your preferred streaming platform and watch “State of Grace” (1990) today. Don’t miss this compelling film that showcases some of the best performances of its time and remains a powerful entry in the crime drama genre.
