The Crazies (2010) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
The Crazies is a 2010 horror-thriller directed by Breck Eisner, and it serves as a remake of George A. Romero’s 1973 film of the same name. Set in the small town of Ogden Marsh, Iowa, the film follows Sheriff David Dutton (Timothy Olyphant), his wife Judy (Radha Mitchell), and a few other survivors as they attempt to escape a sudden outbreak that turns the town’s residents into violent, crazed killers.
This version of The Crazies combines tension-filled moments with gruesome, action-packed sequences, making it a standout in the modern horror genre. Let’s dive into what makes this movie worth watching, and where you can stream it online.
The Crazies (2010) – Plot Summary
The peaceful small town of Ogden Marsh is abruptly plunged into chaos when an unknown toxin contaminates the water supply, driving ordinary citizens to murder and violence. Sheriff David Dutton and his deputy Russell (Joe Anderson) first notice strange behavior when one of the townspeople walks onto a baseball field holding a shotgun.
What initially seems like an isolated incident quickly spirals into widespread madness, as more residents exhibit violent and erratic behavior. Dutton and his wife Judy, the town’s doctor, soon realize that a biological agent is responsible for turning the townspeople into homicidal maniacs.
As the military is sent in to quarantine the area, Dutton, Judy, and a few other survivors find themselves caught between crazed infected townspeople and the brutal military forces enforcing the quarantine. With their lives on the line, they must make desperate choices to survive the chaos engulfing their once-quiet town.
Film Review: Why The Crazies (2010) is a Standout in Modern Horror
Horror remakes can be hit or miss, but The Crazies is one of the rare examples that not only honors the original but updates it with a slicker, more polished presentation that appeals to modern audiences. The film blends psychological horror with survival thriller elements, creating an intense, gripping narrative.
Timothy Olyphant’s Stellar Performance:
Timothy Olyphant shines as Sheriff David Dutton, anchoring the film with a performance that balances toughness with vulnerability. His portrayal adds depth to a character who is not only battling external threats but also the emotional toll of watching his town—and its people—fall apart. Radha Mitchell also delivers a strong performance as Judy, playing off Olyphant’s protective instincts while demonstrating her own resilience.
Tension and Suspense:
One of the greatest strengths of The Crazies is its ability to build and sustain tension throughout the film. From quiet moments of dread to all-out horror sequences, the movie keeps viewers on edge. Whether it’s the eerie calm before the storm or the intense chase sequences, Eisner’s direction maintains a high level of suspense. The way the film slowly reveals the growing madness and chaos keeps the audience invested in the characters’ survival.
Social Commentary and Paranoia:
Like Romero’s original film, The Crazies touches on themes of government control, military overreach, and the fear of losing autonomy in the face of a crisis. The story is also a reflection of the fear of biological contamination and the consequences of mishandling such crises. The horror isn’t just in the violence perpetrated by the infected, but also in the cold, clinical response by the government forces, which poses just as much of a threat to the survivors.
Well-Executed Horror and Gore:
While The Crazies is primarily a thriller, it doesn’t shy away from its horror roots. The film’s use of practical effects and makeup for the infected residents is impressive, with some genuinely terrifying visuals. The film doesn’t over-rely on jump scares but builds its horror through atmosphere and the horrifying transformation of ordinary people into killers. There are also plenty of gory moments for fans of intense, visceral horror.
Where to Watch The Crazies Online – Streaming Services and Availability
If you’re eager to watch The Crazies, several streaming platforms offer the movie in the United States. Below are the best places to stream or rent The Crazies online.
Streaming Services Available in the United States
- Amazon Prime Video
The Crazies is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video. Prime members can watch it for free as part of their subscription. Non-members can also rent or purchase the movie.
[Included with Amazon Prime membership or available for rent/purchase] - Hulu
The Crazies is also available to stream on Hulu, but only if you have the Hulu + Live TV plan or access to premium add-ons like Starz. Check if it’s included in your subscription tier.
[Hulu with Starz add-on required] - Tubi
For a free option, Tubi offers The Crazies with ads. This is a great way to watch the film if you’re looking for a cost-free option.
[Free with ads on Tubi] - Plex
Another free streaming service, Plex, offers The Crazies with ad interruptions. Plex is a solid choice if you want to watch without paying for a subscription, although you’ll have to deal with some commercial breaks.
[Free with ads on Plex]
Rent or Purchase The Crazies Online
If you’d prefer to rent or own the film, here are popular platforms where you can rent or purchase The Crazies:
- Amazon Prime Video
On Amazon Prime Video, you can rent The Crazies for $3.99 or buy it for $9.99. Renting allows you to stream the movie for 48 hours after you start watching.
[Available for rent or purchase] - Google Play Movies
Google Play Movies offers The Crazies for rent at $3.99 and for purchase at $12.99. A great option for Android users who want to stream it across multiple devices.
[Available for rent or purchase] - Apple iTunes
Apple iTunes offers the movie for rent at $3.99 or for purchase at $12.99. This is ideal for Apple users who prefer watching through Apple TV or other Apple devices.
[Available for rent or purchase] - YouTube Movies
YouTube Movies provides both renting and purchasing options. Rent The Crazies for $3.99 or buy it for $12.99, with the flexibility to stream directly through the YouTube app or site.
[Available for rent or purchase]
Final Thoughts – Is The Crazies Worth Watching?
The Crazies (2010) is an intense and suspenseful horror-thriller that builds on the themes of its predecessor while delivering a fresh and modern take on biological horror. The performances, particularly from Timothy Olyphant, elevate the material, and the film’s combination of psychological tension, social commentary, and brutal horror make it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
The movie’s exploration of paranoia, government control, and survival adds layers to the otherwise straightforward horror premise, making it a film that not only entertains but also leaves you thinking long after it ends. If you’re a fan of post-apocalyptic or survival horror films, The Crazies is an excellent choice for your next movie night.
Conclusion: Stream The Crazies Today
Whether you prefer streaming for free on Tubi or Plex, or you want to rent or purchase the film on Amazon, The Crazies is widely available across multiple platforms. Its blend of horror, suspense, and social commentary makes it a compelling watch, so be sure to check it out if you’re in the mood for a tense, adrenaline-fueled ride.
Don’t miss your chance to experience the terror of The Crazies—start streaming it today!
