The Fury of a Patient Man (2016) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
The Fury of a Patient Man (Spanish: Tarde para la ira), directed by Raúl Arévalo, is a gripping Spanish thriller that garnered critical acclaim upon its release in 2016. This dark, slow-burn revenge story won multiple accolades, including the prestigious Goya Award for Best Film. It’s a film that blends intense emotion with a methodical pace, exploring the themes of patience, vengeance, and human frailty.
In this review, we’ll dive into the plot, performances, and what makes this film stand out in the revenge thriller genre. We’ll also provide details on where to stream or rent The Fury of a Patient Man online in the U.S.
Plot Summary
The story centers around José (Antonio de la Torre), a quiet and reserved man, who, over the course of the film, reveals his long-simmering rage. His motivation becomes clear as the plot unfolds: eight years prior, his girlfriend was killed during a violent jewelry store robbery, and the perpetrators got away.
One of the robbers, Curro (Luis Callejo), was caught and has just been released after serving his sentence. Curro returns to his family, hoping to rebuild his life, but José has other plans. Patiently biding his time, José integrates himself into Curro’s world, all the while plotting his revenge on those responsible for his girlfriend’s death.
The film is a study of repressed anger and the consequences of allowing vengeance to consume one’s life. Unlike the fast-paced, high-octane action typically associated with revenge thrillers, The Fury of a Patient Man opts for a more deliberate, character-driven approach. It slowly builds tension, revealing the emotional complexities of its characters and making the final act all the more explosive.
Key Characters and Performances
- Antonio de la Torre as José
Antonio de la Torre delivers a masterclass in understated rage as José. His quiet demeanor masks a man consumed by grief and anger, and the tension that builds around his character is palpable. De la Torre’s performance is subtle yet powerful, drawing the audience into José’s world without needing grandiose displays of emotion. His portrayal of a patient man slowly unraveling is chilling and magnetic. - Luis Callejo as Curro
Luis Callejo’s Curro is the perfect foil to José’s calm, controlled presence. Recently released from prison, Curro wants to put his criminal past behind him, but his violent temper and brash demeanor make it clear that change won’t come easily. Callejo’s performance adds a layer of complexity to Curro, as he is both a victim of circumstance and a deeply flawed individual. His guilt over his past mistakes and his desperation to reconnect with his family are convincingly portrayed. - Ruth Díaz as Ana
Ruth Díaz plays Ana, Curro’s partner, who has been waiting for him while raising their child. Díaz brings a grounded performance, depicting the emotional strain of a woman caught between her past and her uncertain future. Ana’s character also becomes an emotional focal point for José, complicating his quest for revenge.
What to Expect from The Fury of a Patient Man
Strengths
- Slow-Burning Tension: One of the film’s greatest strengths is how it builds tension through its pacing. Director Raúl Arévalo takes his time in revealing José’s motives, allowing the audience to immerse themselves in the characters’ emotional states. The suspense gradually intensifies as the film moves toward its brutal and inevitable conclusion.
- Complex Characters: The film’s characters are richly developed, with layers of complexity that are slowly peeled back as the story progresses. José, in particular, is a fascinating character study. His outwardly calm, patient demeanor masks a man consumed by rage. The contrast between his actions and his emotional state is the driving force behind the film.
- Grounded and Gritty: The Fury of a Patient Man eschews the glossy, stylized approach often found in revenge thrillers in favor of a more grounded, gritty atmosphere. The film feels raw and authentic, with a focus on the harsh realities of violence and vengeance. Its Spanish setting, coupled with the somber tone, lends the film a unique aesthetic.
- Emotional Depth: At its core, the movie is not just about revenge—it’s about the emotional toll it takes on the avenger. The film explores themes of loss, justice, and the destructive power of obsession, making it a far more introspective piece than your typical revenge thriller.
Weaknesses
- Pacing: While the slow-burn approach is a strength for those who enjoy methodical storytelling, it could be seen as a weakness for viewers expecting a faster-paced thriller. The deliberate pacing may test the patience of those looking for more action-heavy sequences.
- Minimal Action: The film’s action sequences, though impactful, are sparse. Much of the tension comes from psychological conflict and emotional turmoil rather than physical confrontations. This might disappoint audiences looking for a more conventional, action-driven revenge film.
Direction and Cinematography
Raúl Arévalo’s direction is remarkable, especially considering this was his directorial debut. Known more for his acting work prior to this film, Arévalo demonstrates a keen understanding of pacing, tone, and tension. He carefully balances the story’s quiet moments with bursts of violence, creating a rhythm that keeps the audience engaged throughout.
The film’s cinematography, handled by Arnau Valls Colomer, enhances the overall mood with its muted color palette and claustrophobic framing. The visual style complements the film’s themes, often focusing on the small, confined spaces that mirror José’s internalized anger. The use of natural lighting adds to the gritty realism, making the audience feel as though they are part of the world the characters inhabit.
Where to Watch The Fury of a Patient Man Online in the U.S.
While The Fury of a Patient Man initially had a limited release, it is now available on several streaming and rental platforms in the U.S. Here’s where you can watch it:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video
- The Fury of a Patient Man is available to stream for Amazon Prime Video subscribers. You can watch it as part of your subscription or rent it directly from Amazon.
- Hulu (with the HBO Max add-on)
- The film can be streamed through Hulu if you have the HBO Max add-on. This option gives you access to a variety of international films, including this Spanish thriller.
- HBO Max
- If you’re subscribed to HBO Max, the film is available in their extensive library of international films and thrillers.
Rental and Purchase Options
If you’d prefer to rent or buy the film, here are some digital platforms where The Fury of a Patient Man is available:
- Amazon Prime Video (Rent or Buy)
- Google Play Movies
- Apple iTunes
- Vudu
- YouTube Movies
These platforms typically offer the film for rent at around $3.99 to $4.99, and for purchase at approximately $9.99 to $12.99, depending on the platform and resolution (SD/HD).
Physical Media
For collectors, The Fury of a Patient Man is also available on Blu-ray and DVD through retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy. The physical release includes special features that delve into the making of the film and behind-the-scenes insights.
Conclusion
The Fury of a Patient Man (2016) is a powerful and emotionally charged thriller that stands out in the revenge genre. With its slow-burning tension, richly developed characters, and grounded approach to storytelling, the film offers a refreshing take on the classic revenge narrative. Antonio de la Torre’s masterful performance, combined with Raúl Arévalo’s confident direction, makes this a must-watch for fans of gritty, character-driven thrillers.
If you enjoy films that explore the psychological complexities of revenge rather than relying solely on action, The Fury of a Patient Man is a hidden gem worth seeking out. With its availability on major streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video and HBO Max, it’s never been easier to experience this riveting Spanish thriller.
