The Birth of a Nation (2016) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
The Birth of a Nation (2016), directed by Nate Parker, is a historical drama that seeks to reclaim a title historically associated with a notoriously racist film from 1915. Parker’s film tells the powerful story of Nat Turner, an enslaved preacher who led a rebellion in 1831 against the oppressive system of slavery in the United States. Unlike the 1915 film that glorified the Confederacy and the Ku Klux Klan, Parker’s The Birth of a Nation aims to shed light on the atrocities of slavery and the legacy of resistance.
In this article, we’ll review the movie, its historical significance, key performances, and where you can watch The Birth of a Nation online via streaming and rental services in the U.S.
Plot Overview: Nat Turner’s Uprising for Freedom
Set in the antebellum South, The Birth of a Nation follows the life of Nat Turner (Nate Parker), a literate enslaved man who is both preacher and laborer on a Virginia plantation. As a preacher, Nat is taken by his master, Samuel Turner (Armie Hammer), to other plantations to spread a message of subservience to other enslaved people. The owners believe that using religion can help control the enslaved population, but as Nat witnesses the brutal treatment of his fellow African Americans, he begins to see religion in a different light.
His once passive faith transforms into a revolutionary conviction, and Nat decides to lead a violent rebellion against the slaveholders in an attempt to liberate his people. The revolt, though ultimately quashed, becomes one of the most significant acts of resistance against slavery in American history.
Historical Context and Impact
Nat Turner’s rebellion is a pivotal event in the history of American slavery. Taking place in 1831, it left more than 50 white slaveholders and their families dead, and the violent response from the government led to the deaths of hundreds of enslaved people, both involved and uninvolved in the rebellion.
Parker’s film doesn’t shy away from depicting the horrors of slavery—the violence, the dehumanization, and the generational trauma. The movie serves as a reminder of the brutal realities that African Americans endured and the costs of their resistance. Its title, The Birth of a Nation, is a direct challenge to D.W. Griffith’s 1915 film, reclaiming the narrative from one that celebrates white supremacy to one that honors black resistance.
Key Performances: Nate Parker’s Passionate Portrayal of Nat Turner
Nate Parker not only directed and co-wrote the screenplay for The Birth of a Nation, but also delivered a commanding performance in the lead role of Nat Turner. Parker’s portrayal captures the emotional depth of Turner’s transformation—from a man trying to survive within the system to a man willing to risk everything to tear it down.
Armie Hammer also shines as Samuel Turner, Nat’s conflicted master. Hammer portrays Samuel as a man torn between his friendship with Nat and his role as a participant in the system of slavery. Aja Naomi King delivers a powerful performance as Cherry, Nat’s wife, who becomes one of the catalysts for his rebellion after suffering immense personal trauma at the hands of a slaveholder.
Other notable performances include Jackie Earle Haley as the brutal slave-catcher Raymond Cobb and Penelope Ann Miller as Elizabeth Turner, Samuel’s mother. The cast brings emotional weight to a story that is both harrowing and inspiring.
Critical Reception and Controversy
When The Birth of a Nation premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2016, it received standing ovations and widespread critical acclaim. The film went on to win both the Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Award, and was seen as a potential frontrunner for the Academy Awards.
However, the film’s Oscar hopes were overshadowed by controversy surrounding Nate Parker’s past. Details of a 1999 rape allegation against Parker (for which he was acquitted) resurfaced, leading to widespread debate over whether viewers could or should separate the artist from the art. This controversy significantly impacted the film’s box office performance and its awards season prospects.
Despite the controversy, many critics still praised the film for its bold storytelling and powerful subject matter. Some viewed it as an essential film for understanding the legacy of slavery and resistance in America, while others found fault with its historical inaccuracies and depiction of Turner’s rebellion.
Where to Watch The Birth of a Nation (2016) Online in America
If you’re looking to stream or purchase The Birth of a Nation (2016), there are several platforms that offer it in the U.S.
1. Amazon Prime Video
You can stream, rent, or buy The Birth of a Nation on Amazon Prime Video. Rentals usually start at $3.99, while purchasing the film costs around $9.99. Amazon Prime offers HD and UHD streaming, making it a convenient option for viewers looking for high-quality playback.
2. Apple TV
Apple TV also offers both rental and purchase options for The Birth of a Nation. The rental price is typically $3.99, and purchasing the movie costs $9.99. If you prefer watching movies on your Apple devices, this platform provides a smooth user experience.
3. Google Play Movies & TV
Google Play Movies & TV allows you to rent or purchase The Birth of a Nation. As with most platforms, rentals begin at $3.99, while buying the film costs approximately $9.99. This is a great choice for Android users or anyone with Chromecast capabilities.
4. Vudu
Vudu is another popular platform offering rentals and purchases of The Birth of a Nation. Prices are similar to other platforms, with rentals starting at $3.99 and purchases at $9.99. Vudu’s high-quality streaming service makes it a solid option for movie lovers.
5. Hulu
Hulu subscribers can stream The Birth of a Nation as part of their subscription package. If you already have a Hulu account, you can enjoy the film without additional costs, making this a cost-effective option.
Conclusion: A Story of Resistance and Liberation
The Birth of a Nation (2016) tells an essential story about Nat Turner’s rebellion, shedding light on a dark chapter in American history and highlighting the resilience and resistance of enslaved African Americans. Nate Parker’s film, though marred by controversy, is a cinematic achievement that forces viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about the past.
Whether you’re drawn to its historical significance or the compelling performances, The Birth of a Nation is a film that resonates with the ongoing struggles for justice and equality. With several streaming and rental options available in the U.S., including Amazon Prime, Apple TV, and Hulu, watching The Birth of a Nation has never been easier.
