Suite Française (2014) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Suite Française is a 2014 war drama film directed by Saul Dibb, based on the novel of the same name by Irène Némirovsky. Set during the German occupation of France in World War II, the film explores themes of love, loyalty, and resilience against the backdrop of wartime upheaval. With a strong cast and a poignant narrative, Suite Française provides a compelling look at the human experience during a tumultuous period in history. This review will delve into the film’s plot, performances, and impact, and provide information on where you can stream or purchase Suite Française online in the United States.
Plot Overview: Love and Conflict in Occupied France
Suite Française is set in France during the early years of World War II and focuses on the life of Lucile Angellier (Michelle Williams), a young woman living under the German occupation. Lucile’s husband is a prisoner of war, and she lives a relatively sheltered life with her domineering mother-in-law, Madame Angellier (Kristin Scott Thomas).
The narrative takes a turn when German soldiers, including the charismatic Captain Bruno von Falk (Matthias Schoenaerts), are billeted at the Angellier family’s estate. As the German occupation continues, Lucile finds herself drawn to Captain von Falk despite the tension and danger surrounding their relationship. Their forbidden romance unfolds amidst the backdrop of war, capturing the complexities of human emotions and the impact of external circumstances on personal relationships.
The film explores themes of love and betrayal, showcasing the emotional and moral dilemmas faced by the characters as they navigate the challenges of wartime life. The story is based on the unfinished novel by Irène Némirovsky, who was a Jewish writer imprisoned during the war and did not survive to complete the work.
Performance Highlights: Strong Acting Ensemble
The performances in Suite Française are a significant highlight of the film. Michelle Williams delivers a compelling portrayal of Lucile Angellier, capturing her character’s internal conflict and emotional depth. Williams’ nuanced performance adds a layer of authenticity and vulnerability to the film.
Matthias Schoenaerts’ portrayal of Captain Bruno von Falk is equally impressive. Schoenaerts brings a sense of complexity and charisma to the role, making his character both captivating and enigmatic. His performance complements Williams’ and enhances the film’s exploration of their forbidden romance.
Kristin Scott Thomas, as Madame Angellier, delivers a strong performance as the formidable and controlling mother-in-law. Her portrayal adds depth to the film’s exploration of familial relationships and the impact of the war on personal dynamics.
The supporting cast, including Sam Riley, who plays the sympathetic French Resistance member Benoît, contributes to the film’s overall impact. Their performances enrich the narrative and provide a multifaceted view of life during the occupation.
Direction and Cinematography: A War-Torn Love Story
Saul Dibb’s direction in Suite Française is marked by a focus on character-driven storytelling and historical authenticity. Dibb effectively balances the film’s romantic and dramatic elements, creating a narrative that is both engaging and emotionally resonant.
The cinematography, by Eduard Grau, captures the beauty and devastation of wartime France. The film’s visual style is characterized by its period-accurate details and evocative use of color and light. The cinematography enhances the film’s mood and atmosphere, contributing to its overall impact.
Dibb’s direction and Grau’s cinematography work together to create a visually stunning and emotionally impactful film. The film’s portrayal of the French countryside and the tension of wartime occupation adds depth to its narrative and enhances the viewer’s immersion in the story.
Legacy and Reception: A Poignant War Drama
Suite Française has been praised for its powerful performances and evocative depiction of wartime romance. The film’s exploration of love and conflict during a period of historical upheaval provides a poignant and thought-provoking experience for viewers.
While the film received positive reviews for its acting and historical detail, it also faced some criticism for its pacing and adaptation of Némirovsky’s unfinished novel. Despite these critiques, Suite Française remains a significant work in the genre of war dramas and historical adaptations.
Where to Watch Suite Française Online
Suite Française is available on several streaming platforms and digital rental services in the United States:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: Suite Française is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video. Subscribers can watch the film in high definition, and it is also available for rental or purchase for those without a subscription.
- Hulu: The film is available on Hulu with a subscription, allowing viewers to stream it in high definition. Hulu provides a convenient platform for accessing a variety of films, including historical dramas.
Rental/Purchase Options
- Apple iTunes: Suite Française can be rented or purchased on Apple iTunes. The film is available in high definition, and purchases often include additional content such as interviews and behind-the-scenes features.
- Google Play Movies & TV: The film can be rented or purchased on Google Play Movies & TV. This platform allows for streaming on Android devices, web browsers, and through Chromecast, providing multiple viewing options.
- Vudu: Vudu provides both rental and purchase options for the film, with high-definition streaming available. Vudu’s service is compatible with a wide range of devices, offering flexibility for viewers.
Final Thoughts
Suite Française is a moving and visually captivating war drama that explores themes of love, loyalty, and resilience during the German occupation of France. With strong performances, effective direction, and a compelling narrative, the film offers a poignant portrayal of human emotions amidst the backdrop of wartime conflict.
For fans of historical dramas and romantic films, Suite Française is a must-watch. Its availability on various streaming platforms and digital services makes it accessible for viewers seeking an emotionally engaging and visually impressive film. Whether revisiting the film or discovering it for the first time, Suite Française provides a powerful and memorable cinematic experience.
