The Devil’s Own (1997) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
The Devil’s Own is a 1997 American thriller directed by Alan J. Pakula and starring Harrison Ford and Brad Pitt. Set against the backdrop of political violence in Northern Ireland, the film tells the story of two men caught between personal loyalty and political ideology. It’s a gripping tale of trust, deception, and the harsh realities of conflict, blending action and drama with a complex moral undertone.
In this review, we’ll explore the plot, performances, critical reception, and where you can stream The Devil’s Own in 2024.
Plot Overview: A Conflict of Loyalties
The story follows Rory Devaney (Brad Pitt), a member of the Irish Republican Army (IRA), who flees Northern Ireland for America after a mission goes wrong. Rory is on a personal vendetta to avenge his father, who was killed by British loyalists when Rory was a child. On the surface, he’s a charming young man seeking refuge, but behind the façade, he is a hardened revolutionary on a dangerous mission to buy weapons for the IRA.
In New York, Rory assumes a new identity, going by the name Frankie McGuire, and seeks shelter with Tom O’Meara (Harrison Ford), a hardworking, idealistic New York police officer and family man who unknowingly takes Rory in as a house guest. As Tom and Rory bond, Tom begins to see Rory as part of his family, unaware of his true identity and the political violence that follows him.
Tensions escalate when Tom discovers Rory’s real mission, forcing both men to confront their moral convictions. The film’s central conflict revolves around Tom’s loyalty to law and justice, and Rory’s commitment to his cause. Ultimately, The Devil’s Own is not just an action thriller but a story about two men trapped by their respective beliefs and the devastating consequences of violence.
Performances: Star Power from Harrison Ford and Brad Pitt
Harrison Ford’s portrayal of Tom O’Meara is one of quiet strength and dignity. Ford brings depth to his character, a man who is deeply committed to his family and career, yet troubled by the compromises he must make in the face of his growing friendship with Rory. Ford’s understated performance contrasts well with the more volatile nature of Pitt’s character, showing his internal struggle as he grapples with the truth about Rory.
Brad Pitt as Rory Devaney delivers a complex performance, capturing the duality of a man who is both a freedom fighter and a terrorist. Pitt convincingly portrays Rory’s internal conflict between his personal sense of honor and the violent methods he employs. Despite his actions, Pitt’s performance ensures that Rory is not a one-dimensional villain, but a man shaped by the brutal realities of political violence.
The chemistry between Ford and Pitt is what holds the film together. The two characters form an unlikely bond, and it’s this relationship—based on trust, betrayal, and ultimately understanding—that drives the emotional weight of the film. Their dynamic makes The Devil’s Own more than just a standard thriller and elevates it to a thought-provoking drama about the consequences of political and personal choices.
Themes: Violence, Trust, and Moral Dilemmas
At its core, The Devil’s Own is a film about moral dilemmas. It explores the blurred lines between right and wrong, and how individuals are shaped by their environment and experiences. Rory, driven by vengeance and loyalty to his cause, justifies his violent actions as necessary for the greater good. In contrast, Tom’s commitment to law and order forces him to confront the painful reality that his friend is involved in activities that go against everything he stands for.
The film also touches on the broader political implications of the Northern Ireland conflict, highlighting how deeply personal tragedies are woven into larger political struggles. It avoids taking a clear political stance, instead focusing on the human cost of such conflicts. Rory’s choices are driven by a desire for justice for his father’s death, but the film questions whether his means justify the ends.
Another key theme is the idea of trust and betrayal. Tom welcomes Rory into his home, offering him the safety and security of a family, only to later discover that he has been harboring a fugitive. This betrayal cuts deep, as Tom must reconcile his personal loyalty to Rory with his professional duty to uphold the law.
Direction and Cinematography: A Tense, Brooding Atmosphere
Director Alan J. Pakula, known for his previous films like All the President’s Men and The Pelican Brief, crafts a tense atmosphere throughout The Devil’s Own. The film moves at a deliberate pace, allowing for character development and emotional depth. Pakula avoids sensationalizing the violence, instead focusing on the human impact of the conflict. The film is more of a slow-burn drama than a high-octane thriller, with moments of tension and action that are grounded in the characters’ emotional journeys.
Cinematographer Gordon Willis, famous for his work on The Godfather trilogy, brings a dark and brooding visual style to the film. The muted color palette and shadowy lighting create a sense of foreboding, reflecting the moral ambiguity of the story. The action sequences, while not frequent, are shot with precision, adding to the film’s suspense.
Critical Reception: Mixed but Notable Performances
The Devil’s Own received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising the performances of Ford and Pitt, while others criticized the film’s uneven pacing and lack of a clear political stance. The film’s thoughtful exploration of personal and political dilemmas was noted, but some felt that the script didn’t fully capitalize on its potential, resulting in a somewhat muddled narrative.
Despite the criticism, both Ford and Pitt’s performances were generally well-received, with critics acknowledging the emotional weight they brought to their roles. The film’s quieter moments, focusing on the relationship between Tom and Rory, were seen as its strongest points, while some of the more conventional thriller elements were viewed as underwhelming.
Where to Watch The Devil’s Own Online in 2024
Looking to stream The Devil’s Own in 2024? Here’s where you can find it:
1. Amazon Prime Video
The Devil’s Own is available on Amazon Prime Video for rent or purchase. Rentals start at $3.99, and the purchase price is usually around $9.99.
2. Apple TV
You can rent or buy The Devil’s Own on Apple TV. Rentals start at $3.99, and the movie is available for purchase for $9.99. Apple TV’s platform allows for high-definition streaming across all Apple devices.
3. Google Play Movies & TV
Google Play Movies & TV offers The Devil’s Own for rent and purchase, with prices similar to other platforms. The rental price typically starts at $3.99, and the purchase price is $9.99. The film is available for streaming on Android devices, smart TVs, and web browsers.
4. YouTube Movies
You can rent or purchase The Devil’s Own on YouTube Movies. Rentals start at $3.99, and purchases are usually priced at $9.99. YouTube offers the flexibility of watching the film on a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.
5. Vudu
Vudu offers both rental and purchase options for The Devil’s Own. Rental prices start at $3.99, with the option to purchase the film for $9.99. Vudu is known for offering high-quality streaming and often features promotions and discounts.
Final Thoughts: A Thoughtful but Flawed Thriller
The Devil’s Own is a film that tackles difficult subjects like loyalty, violence, and political conflict through the lens of personal relationships. While it may not be a perfect thriller, the film’s strong performances from Harrison Ford and Brad Pitt make it worth watching. The central conflict between these two characters provides emotional depth, elevating the film beyond its action elements.
Though the film received mixed reviews, it’s a thought-provoking drama that raises important questions about the cost of violence and the complexity of moral choices. If you’re looking for a slow-burn thriller with strong character development, The Devil’s Own is a solid choice for streaming in 2024.
