The Butler (2013) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Released in 2013 and directed by Lee Daniels, “The Butler” is a poignant historical drama that chronicles the life of Cecil Gaines, a White House butler who served under eight U.S. presidents. Starring Forest Whitaker, Oprah Winfrey, and David Oyelowo, the film provides a compelling look at one man’s personal and professional journey against the backdrop of significant events in American history.
Plot Summary
“The Butler” tells the story of Cecil Gaines (Forest Whitaker), who rises from humble beginnings to become a respected butler in the White House. Over several decades, he witnesses and experiences major historical events and social changes, including the civil rights movement and the Vietnam War, while serving as a witness to the personal lives of the presidents he works for.
The film also explores Cecil’s family life, focusing on his relationship with his wife (Oprah Winfrey) and his son (David Oyelowo), who becomes involved in the civil rights movement. The narrative weaves together Cecil’s personal struggles with broader societal changes, offering a rich and emotional portrayal of American history.
Why You Should Watch It
“The Butler” is praised for its powerful performances and its engaging portrayal of historical events through the lens of one man’s life. Forest Whitaker delivers a memorable performance as Cecil Gaines, bringing depth and nuance to the character. Oprah Winfrey and David Oyelowo also provide strong supporting performances that add emotional weight to the film.
The movie’s exploration of historical events and social issues, combined with its personal and emotional storytelling, makes it both educational and moving. It provides a unique perspective on American history and the struggles faced by those who lived through it.
Streaming Services and Rental Options
To watch “The Butler” online, consider the following options:
Streaming Services:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for streaming with a subscription to Amazon Prime.
- Hulu: Can be streamed with a subscription to Hulu’s Live TV plan or international catalog.
- Disney+: Sometimes available as part of the 20th Century Fox catalog.
Rental and Purchase Options:
- iTunes: Rent or buy “The Butler” through Apple’s iTunes Store, with options for standard and high-definition.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rent or purchase, providing flexible viewing options.
- Vudu: Rent or buy the film in HD or UHD quality.
These platforms offer various ways to view “The Butler,” whether through a subscription service or a one-time rental or purchase.
Conclusion
“The Butler” is a powerful and moving historical drama that offers a compelling look at American history through the eyes of one man. With its strong performances, emotional depth, and insightful portrayal of historical events, it remains a significant and impactful film. Whether you choose to stream it on Amazon Prime or Disney+, or rent it through iTunes or Google Play, “The Butler” provides an engaging and thought-provoking viewing experience.
