The Art of Self-Defense

The Art of Self-Defense (2019) Movie Review: A Darkly Comic Exploration of Masculinity

Release Year: 2019
Director: Riley Stearns
Running Time: 104 minutes

Released in 2019 and directed by Riley Stearns, The Art of Self-Defense is a dark comedy that delves into themes of masculinity, self-defense, and personal empowerment with a satirical edge. The film, starring Jesse Eisenberg and Alessandro Nivola, combines deadpan humor with a sharp critique of toxic masculinity, resulting in a unique and thought-provoking viewing experience. In this article, we’ll explore the film’s key elements and provide information on where you can stream, rent, or purchase The Art of Self-Defense in the U.S.

Plot Summary of The Art of Self-Defense

The Art of Self-Defense follows Casey Davies (Jesse Eisenberg), a timid and reclusive accountant who becomes the victim of a violent attack. Seeking to regain control and confidence in his life, Casey decides to join a local karate dojo led by the enigmatic Sensei (Alessandro Nivola). As Casey immerses himself in the world of martial arts, he finds himself entangled in a strange and increasingly dangerous environment.

The film explores Casey’s transformation as he navigates the dojo’s peculiar dynamics and the extremes of its teachings. The narrative mixes dark humor with a critique of the hyper-masculine culture, ultimately leading to a dramatic and unexpected climax.

The Cast and Performances

• Jesse Eisenberg as Casey Davies: Eisenberg delivers a nuanced performance as the film’s protagonist, capturing Casey’s vulnerability and gradual shift into a more assertive and conflicted individual. His portrayal adds depth to the film’s exploration of self-identity and empowerment.
• Alessandro Nivola as Sensei: Nivola’s portrayal of the dojo’s charismatic yet intimidating leader is both compelling and unsettling. His performance drives much of the film’s darkly comedic and satirical tone.
• Imogen Poots as Anna: Poots plays Anna, a fellow student at the dojo who becomes an important figure in Casey’s journey. Her performance adds a layer of complexity and intrigue to the film’s dynamics.

Riley Stearns’ Direction and Style

Riley Stearns directs The Art of Self-Defense with a distinctive style that blends dark comedy with social commentary. Stearns’s direction emphasizes the film’s satirical elements while maintaining a tight, engaging narrative.

The film’s direction includes a mix of deadpan humor, surreal moments, and sharp dialogue. Stearns effectively captures the absurdity of the dojo’s culture and the darkly comic undertones of the story.

Themes of Masculinity and Self-Empowerment

The Art of Self-Defense explores themes of masculinity, self-empowerment, and personal transformation. The film satirizes the concept of traditional masculinity and the lengths to which individuals might go to reclaim their sense of strength and identity.

The narrative examines the impact of societal expectations on personal behavior and the consequences of adopting extreme measures to fit into a particular mold of masculinity.

Visuals and Cinematography

The film’s cinematography, by Michael Simmonds, complements the darkly comic and satirical tone of the narrative. The use of subdued colors, precise framing, and stylized shots enhances the film’s unique aesthetic and reinforces its thematic elements.

The visual style of The Art of Self-Defense contributes to its overall impact, providing a visually engaging and thought-provoking experience.

Critical Reception and Legacy

The Art of Self-Defense received generally positive reviews from critics for its inventive approach to comedy and its commentary on masculinity. The film was praised for its dark humor, strong performances, and original storytelling.

The film’s legacy is defined by its contribution to the genre of dark comedy and its ability to provoke thought and discussion on important social themes. The Art of Self-Defense stands out as a unique and memorable entry in contemporary cinema.

Where to Watch The Art of Self-Defense Online in the U.S. (2024)

1. Streaming Platforms

• Hulu
  The Art of Self-Defense is available for streaming on Hulu. Subscribers can watch the film as part of their Hulu membership.
• Amazon Prime Video
  The film is also available on Amazon Prime Video for streaming with a subscription.

2. Rental and Purchase Options

• Amazon Prime Video
  For those interested in renting or purchasing a digital copy, The Art of Self-Defense can be rented for $3.99 or purchased for $12.99 on Amazon Prime Video. This option allows for flexible viewing on various devices.
• Google Play Movies
  The film is available for rent or purchase on Google Play Movies. Rentals start at $3.99, and the purchase option is priced at $12.99.
• Apple iTunes
  On Apple iTunes, The Art of Self-Defense can be rented for $3.99 or purchased for $12.99. The HD version can be downloaded for offline viewing on Apple devices.

3. Physical Media

For those who prefer physical copies, The Art of Self-Defense is available on DVD and Blu-ray. These editions can be found through major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy. The Blu-ray version often includes additional features such as interviews and behind-the-scenes content.

Final Thoughts

The Art of Self-Defense (2019) offers a darkly comic and satirical take on masculinity and personal empowerment. Directed by Riley Stearns and featuring strong performances by Jesse Eisenberg and Alessandro Nivola, the film provides a unique and thought-provoking viewing experience.

Whether you’re a fan of dark comedies or looking for a film with a fresh perspective, The Art of Self-Defense delivers both humor and insight. With its availability on major streaming platforms and for rental or purchase, it’s easy to enjoy this distinctive film from the comfort of your home.