The Girl on the Train (2016) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
The Girl on the Train (2016), directed by Tate Taylor, is a psychological thriller adapted from Paula Hawkins’ bestselling novel of the same name. Starring Emily Blunt, the film delves into themes of obsession, deceit, and the complexities of personal relationships. Set against the backdrop of a seemingly tranquil suburban life, the story unfolds through the eyes of a troubled woman whose life becomes entangled in a missing person’s case.
In this review, we will explore the film’s plot, performances, and cinematic elements, as well as provide information on where to watch The Girl on the Train online in the U.S.
Plot Overview: A Twisted Mystery
The Girl on the Train follows Rachel Watson (Emily Blunt), a recently divorced woman who commutes daily by train into New York City. Each day, Rachel passes by a house that she fantasizes about, imagining the seemingly perfect life of the couple living there. Her fantasies take a dark turn when she sees something shocking that leads her into a missing person’s investigation.
Key plot points include:
- Rachel’s Routine: Rachel, who is struggling with alcoholism and a broken heart from her recent divorce, becomes obsessed with the lives of Megan (Haley Bennett) and Scott Hipwell (Luke Evans), the couple living in the house she sees from the train.
- The Disappearance: Megan goes missing, and Rachel finds herself entangled in the investigation. Her memories are hazy due to her drinking, and she becomes a key suspect in the case, as her involvement in the couple’s lives begins to unravel.
- Unraveling Secrets: As the investigation progresses, Rachel’s past and present become increasingly intertwined. The film explores themes of deception, mental instability, and the impact of trauma on personal relationships.
The film’s plot is characterized by its suspenseful twists and intricate narrative structure, creating a tense and engaging mystery.
Character Performances: A Complex Ensemble
Emily Blunt as Rachel Watson
Emily Blunt stars as Rachel Watson, the film’s central character. Blunt’s performance is marked by her portrayal of Rachel’s emotional turmoil, vulnerability, and determination. Her depiction of Rachel’s struggles with alcoholism and her obsession with the Hipwell couple adds depth and intensity to the film.
Haley Bennett as Megan Hipwell
Haley Bennett plays Megan Hipwell, the missing woman whose life becomes central to the story. Bennett’s portrayal captures Megan’s complexity, including her dissatisfaction with her life and her troubled past. Her performance adds a layer of intrigue and tension to the narrative.
Justin Theroux as Tom Watson
Justin Theroux portrays Tom Watson, Rachel’s ex-husband. Theroux’s performance adds to the film’s tension, as Tom’s character is revealed to have a significant impact on Rachel’s life and the investigation. His role highlights themes of betrayal and manipulation.
Luke Evans as Scott Hipwell
Luke Evans plays Scott Hipwell, Megan’s husband. Evans’ performance contributes to the film’s suspense, as Scott’s reactions to the disappearance and his interactions with Rachel play a crucial role in the unfolding mystery.
Rebecca Ferguson as Anna Watson
Rebecca Ferguson stars as Anna Watson, Tom’s new wife. Ferguson’s portrayal of Anna adds a layer of emotional complexity to the film, as her relationship with Tom and her interactions with Rachel are central to the story’s development.
Direction and Cinematography: Crafting Tension and Atmosphere
Tate Taylor’s direction in The Girl on the Train effectively creates a suspenseful and immersive experience. Taylor’s approach to storytelling emphasizes psychological tension and character development, capturing the film’s dark and enigmatic tone.
The cinematography, by Charlotte Bruus Christensen, enhances the film’s atmosphere with its moody and atmospheric visuals. The use of color and lighting reflects the film’s themes of deception and emotional turmoil. The train scenes and suburban settings are visually striking, contributing to the film’s overall sense of unease.
The film’s pacing and use of flashbacks contribute to its suspenseful narrative, keeping viewers engaged and intrigued as the mystery unfolds.
Themes: Deception, Trauma, and Obsession
The Girl on the Train explores themes of deception, trauma, and obsession. The film’s plot centers around the unraveling of secrets and lies, as Rachel’s involvement in the missing person’s case exposes hidden truths about her own life and those around her.
Deception is a central theme, as the film reveals the characters’ hidden motives and concealed pasts. The story highlights the impact of lies on personal relationships and the difficulty of discerning truth from fiction.
Trauma is another key theme, particularly in relation to Rachel’s struggles with alcoholism and her troubled past. The film delves into the emotional and psychological effects of trauma, exploring how it influences the characters’ actions and decisions.
Obsession is also a prominent theme, as Rachel’s fixation on the Hipwell couple drives much of the plot. Her obsession with their seemingly perfect life and her involvement in the investigation reveal the destructive power of fixation and the impact it has on her own mental state.
Critical Reception: A Mixed Response
The Girl on the Train (2016) received mixed reviews from critics. The film was praised for Emily Blunt’s performance and its atmospheric visuals, as well as its ability to create suspense and tension. Critics appreciated the film’s adaptation of Paula Hawkins’ novel and its engaging mystery.
However, some critics felt that the film’s plot and character development were less compelling than the book, and that the film struggled with pacing issues and an over-reliance on suspenseful twists. The adaptation received some criticism for not fully capturing the novel’s depth and complexity.
Despite these mixed reviews, the film remains an intriguing and suspenseful psychological thriller that offers an engaging watch for fans of the genre.
Where to Watch The Girl on the Train (2016) Online: Streaming and Rental Options in the U.S.
For those interested in watching The Girl on the Train (2016) online, several platforms offer the film for streaming or rental in the U.S. Here’s where you can find it:
1. Amazon Prime Video
The Girl on the Train (2016) is available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Rentals typically start at $3.99, while purchases are available for around $12.99 in HD. Amazon Prime provides a convenient platform for streaming on various devices.
2. Apple TV (iTunes)
The film can be rented for $3.99 or purchased for $12.99 in HD on Apple TV (formerly iTunes). Apple’s platform offers a seamless experience across Apple devices.
3. Google Play Movies & YouTube
The Girl on the Train (2016) is available for rent or purchase on Google Play Movies and YouTube. Rentals start at $3.99, and purchases are around $12.99. Both platforms are accessible on a wide range of devices, providing flexibility for viewers.
4. Vudu
Vudu provides The Girl on the Train (2016) for rental and purchase, with rental prices beginning at $3.99 and purchases available for approximately $12.99. Vudu’s high-definition streaming options ensure a quality viewing experience.
5. Microsoft Store
The Microsoft Store offers digital rental and purchase options for The Girl on the Train (2016). Rentals start at $3.99, and purchases are available for around $12.99. The Microsoft Store supports various devices for easy access.
Conclusion: A Suspenseful Thriller with Strong Performances
The Girl on the Train (2016) is a suspenseful psychological thriller that explores themes of deception, trauma, and obsession. With its gripping plot, strong performances, and atmospheric visuals, the film offers an engaging experience for fans of the genre.
Whether you’re a fan of psychological thrillers or looking for an intriguing mystery, The Girl on the Train (2016) provides a compelling and intense watch. With multiple streaming and rental options available in the U.S., watching this film is both convenient and enjoyable.
