The Current War (2018) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
The Current War (2018), directed by Alfonso Gomez-Rejon, is a historical drama that chronicles the intense rivalry between Thomas Edison (Benedict Cumberbatch) and George Westinghouse (Michael Shannon) as they compete to establish their electrical systems in the late 19th century. The film explores the battle between Edison’s direct current (DC) and Westinghouse’s alternating current (AC), a pivotal moment in the history of electricity.
In this review, we’ll delve into the film’s plot, key performances, and where you can stream The Current War online.
Plot Summary: The Battle for Electrical Dominance
The Current War centers on the fierce competition between Thomas Edison and George Westinghouse as they vie to power the United States with their respective electrical systems. Edison, the proponent of direct current (DC), seeks to dominate the electrical industry with his technology. Westinghouse, an innovative engineer and entrepreneur, supports alternating current (AC) as a more efficient alternative.
As the battle intensifies, both inventors engage in a public relations war to prove the superiority of their systems. The film highlights the ethical dilemmas and personal struggles faced by the key figures in this historical conflict, including Nikola Tesla (Nicholas Hoult), who plays a crucial role in the development of AC.
Key Performances: Benedict Cumberbatch, Michael Shannon, and Nicholas Hoult
- Benedict Cumberbatch as Thomas Edison: Cumberbatch portrays Edison as a determined and brilliant inventor whose ambition drives him to make significant advancements in electrical technology. His performance captures Edison’s intensity and relentless pursuit of success.
- Michael Shannon as George Westinghouse: Shannon brings depth to Westinghouse, a passionate and visionary engineer who faces numerous challenges in his quest to promote AC technology. His portrayal emphasizes Westinghouse’s resilience and innovative spirit.
- Nicholas Hoult as Nikola Tesla: Hoult plays Tesla, a key figure in the development of AC technology. His performance reflects Tesla’s eccentricity and brilliance, highlighting his contributions to the electrical revolution.
Themes: Innovation, Rivalry, and Ethics
The Current War explores several significant themes:
- Innovation and Progress: The film examines the drive for technological advancement and the impact of innovation on society. It highlights the contributions of Edison, Westinghouse, and Tesla to the development of electrical systems.
- Rivalry and Competition: The intense rivalry between Edison and Westinghouse is a central focus of the film. The competition between the two inventors underscores the lengths to which individuals will go to achieve success and recognition.
- Ethics and Responsibility: The film delves into the ethical implications of the inventors’ actions, including the use of propaganda and the impact of their technologies on public safety. It raises questions about the responsibility of innovators to consider the broader consequences of their work.
Direction and Cinematic Style
Alfonso Gomez-Rejon’s direction of The Current War is characterized by its historical accuracy and dramatic storytelling. The film employs several cinematic techniques to create an engaging and informative experience:
- Cinematography: The cinematography captures the late 19th-century setting with attention to detail. The film’s visual style reflects the era’s technological advancements and the grandeur of the electrical industry.
- Production Design: The production design recreates historical settings, including Edison’s laboratory and the World’s Columbian Exposition. The attention to period detail adds authenticity to the film.
- Editing: The editing style maintains a brisk pace, highlighting the rapid developments and intense competition between the inventors. The film balances historical exposition with character-driven drama.
Where to Watch The Current War (2018) Online in the USA
If you’re interested in streaming The Current War online, here are the platforms where you can watch the film in the U.S.:
1. Streaming Services (Subscription-Based)
- Hulu: The Current War is available for streaming on Hulu with a subscription. Hulu offers a range of films and TV shows starting at $7.99 per month.
2. Rental and Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video: You can rent or purchase The Current War on Amazon Prime Video. Rental prices typically start at $3.99, and purchasing the film in HD costs around $12.99.
- Apple TV (iTunes): The movie is available for rent on Apple TV for $3.99 or for purchase at $12.99.
- Google Play Movies: You can rent or buy The Current War on Google Play Movies, with rental prices starting at $3.99 and purchase prices at $12.99.
- Vudu: On Vudu, you can rent the film for $3.99 or purchase it for $12.99.
- YouTube Movies: The film is also available for rent or purchase on YouTube Movies with similar pricing options.
Why You Should Watch The Current War on Streaming Platforms
Streaming The Current War provides an opportunity to explore a pivotal moment in technological history through a dramatic and engaging narrative. The film’s exploration of innovation, rivalry, and ethical considerations offers insight into the challenges faced by pioneering inventors.
Platforms like Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Apple TV offer convenient options for renting or purchasing the film, allowing you to enjoy its historical drama at your convenience.
Conclusion: A Riveting Historical Drama
The Current War (2018) is a captivating historical drama that explores the intense rivalry between Thomas Edison and George Westinghouse in the battle to establish electrical dominance. Directed by Alfonso Gomez-Rejon, the film features strong performances, detailed period settings, and a thought-provoking narrative.
With its focus on innovation and competition, The Current War offers a compelling look at a crucial moment in the development of electrical technology.
Watch The Current War Today:
- Hulu
- Amazon Prime Video
- Apple TV (iTunes)
- Google Play Movies
- Vudu
- YouTube Movies
Dive into the historical drama of The Current War and explore the groundbreaking innovations and fierce competition that shaped the future of electricity.
