The Decline (2020) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
“The Decline” (original title: “La déclin”), directed by Patrice Laliberté, is a tense and gripping Canadian thriller that explores themes of survival, morality, and human nature in the face of a catastrophic event. Released in 2020, the film follows a group of survivalists who find themselves in a life-and-death situation during a training exercise gone horribly wrong. With its thought-provoking premise and intense performances, “The Decline” captivates audiences while raising questions about preparedness and the fragility of civilization.
In this review, we will discuss the film’s plot, character dynamics, themes, and where to watch “The Decline” online.
Plot Summary
The story revolves around Marc (played by Guillaume Laurin), a family man who has become disillusioned with modern society and its inherent dangers. In search of a safer lifestyle for his wife and daughter, Marc attends a survivalist training camp hosted by Bobby (played by Rémy Girard), an experienced instructor with a militaristic approach.
The camp attracts a diverse group of participants, each with their motivations for seeking survival skills. Among them are Anna (played by Émilie Bierre), a young woman determined to prove herself, and Rudy (played by Marc-André Grondin), a survival enthusiast with a questionable past.
As the group embarks on their training exercises, an unexpected incident occurs, leading to a tragic accident that alters the dynamics of the camp. In the wake of chaos, the participants must confront their own fears, moral dilemmas, and the harsh realities of survival. The film expertly navigates the descent into paranoia and mistrust, as the group grapples with the psychological and physical challenges of their situation.
Cast and Performances
Guillaume Laurin as Marc
Guillaume Laurin delivers a strong performance as Marc, capturing the character’s internal struggle and determination to protect his family. Laurin effectively conveys Marc’s transformation from a hopeful participant to a desperate survivor as the story unfolds.
Rémy Girard as Bobby
Rémy Girard plays Bobby, the survival instructor who believes in a no-nonsense approach to preparing for disaster. Girard’s performance is commanding, adding a sense of authority and complexity to the character as the situation spirals out of control.
Émilie Bierre as Anna
Émilie Bierre shines as Anna, a character who challenges gender stereotypes in the survivalist world. Bierre’s portrayal of Anna is both fierce and vulnerable, adding depth to her character as she navigates the chaos.
Marc-André Grondin as Rudy
Marc-André Grondin takes on the role of Rudy, whose troubled past adds tension to the group dynamics. Grondin’s performance adds layers to Rudy’s character, making him a compelling and unpredictable presence in the film.
Direction and Visual Style
Patrice Laliberté’s direction in “The Decline” is skillful, creating a tense atmosphere that immerses viewers in the survivalist experience. The film’s pacing builds suspense, gradually escalating the tension as the characters confront their worst fears.
The cinematography captures the rugged beauty of the wilderness while contrasting it with the claustrophobic and tense environment of the survival camp. The use of natural light enhances the film’s authenticity, grounding the story in a realistic setting.
Themes and Social Commentary
“The Decline” explores several significant themes:
- Survival and Human Nature: The film delves into the instincts that emerge during a crisis, revealing the darker aspects of human nature. It examines how individuals respond to fear and the lengths they will go to survive.
- Morality and Ethics: As the characters confront moral dilemmas, the film raises questions about what is right or wrong in extreme circumstances. The breakdown of societal norms leads to intense ethical debates among the characters.
- Disillusionment with Society: The film reflects a broader commentary on modern society and its fragility. Marc’s journey represents a search for safety and meaning in a world perceived as increasingly dangerous.
Reception and Impact
Upon its release, “The Decline” received positive reviews from critics and audiences, particularly for its strong performances and gripping storyline. The film’s exploration of psychological tension and moral complexity set it apart from typical survival thrillers.
Viewers appreciated the film’s ability to provoke thought while delivering suspense, making it a standout entry in the genre. The performances, especially those of Laurin and Girard, garnered praise for their authenticity and emotional depth.
Where to Watch “The Decline” Online
If you’re interested in watching “The Decline,” here are some platforms where you can stream or rent it in the U.S.:
Streaming Services
- Netflix – “The Decline” is available for streaming with a Netflix subscription.
Rental and Purchase Options
If you prefer to rent or purchase the film, you can find it on the following platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video – Rent for $3.99 or purchase for $12.99 in HD.
- Google Play Movies – Available to rent for $3.99 or purchase for $12.99.
- Apple TV/iTunes – Rent for $3.99 or purchase for $12.99.
- YouTube Movies – Available for rent at $3.99 or purchase at $12.99.
Conclusion
“The Decline” (2020) is a thought-provoking and suspenseful thriller that challenges viewers to confront their own beliefs about survival and morality. With strong performances from Guillaume Laurin, Rémy Girard, and Émilie Bierre, the film delivers a gripping narrative that captivates audiences from start to finish.
For those looking for a survival thriller that dives deep into human nature and societal fears, “The Decline” is a compelling choice. Available on Netflix and various rental platforms, it invites audiences to explore the thin line between civilization and chaos while pondering what they would do in a similar situation.
