The Kindergarten Teacher

The Kindergarten Teacher (2018) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online

The Kindergarten Teacher (2018), directed by Sara Colangelo, is a compelling drama that explores the fine line between mentorship and obsession. Starring Maggie Gyllenhaal, the film delves into the life of a kindergarten teacher who becomes increasingly obsessed with the poetic talents of one of her students. The film is an adaptation of the 2014 Israeli film of the same name, directed by Nadav Lapid, and it brings a fresh perspective to themes of creativity, ambition, and boundaries.

In this review, we’ll discuss the film’s plot, performances, and thematic elements. We’ll also provide information on where you can stream or rent The Kindergarten Teacher online in the U.S.

Plot Summary

The Kindergarten Teacher follows Lisa Spinelli (Maggie Gyllenhaal), a kindergarten teacher who is struggling with a lack of fulfillment in her personal and professional life. Lisa feels unappreciated and is frustrated by her mundane routine. Her life takes a turn when she discovers that one of her young students, Jimmy (Parker Sevak), has a remarkable gift for poetry.

Captivated by Jimmy’s talent, Lisa becomes increasingly involved in his life, believing that she is the only one who can nurture and protect his gift. Her obsession with Jimmy’s potential leads her to cross ethical boundaries, including attempting to control and manipulate his work for her own gain. The film explores Lisa’s descent into moral ambiguity and the consequences of her actions.

Key Characters and Performances

• Maggie Gyllenhaal as Lisa Spinelli
  Maggie Gyllenhaal delivers a powerful and nuanced performance as Lisa Spinelli. Her portrayal captures the complexity of Lisa’s character, showcasing her desperation, obsession, and internal conflict. Gyllenhaal’s performance is central to the film’s emotional impact and thematic depth.
• Parker Sevak as Jimmy
  Parker Sevak plays Jimmy, the gifted young poet whose talent becomes the focus of Lisa’s obsession. Sevak’s performance is authentic and poignant, reflecting the innocence and vulnerability of a child thrust into an adult world.
• Rosa Salazar as Nadia
  Rosa Salazar portrays Nadia, Lisa’s supportive but increasingly concerned friend. Salazar’s performance provides a counterbalance to Lisa’s character, offering insight into the impact of Lisa’s behavior on those around her.
• Anna Baryshnikov as Simona
  Anna Baryshnikov plays Simona, Jimmy’s mother, who becomes increasingly wary of Lisa’s intentions. Baryshnikov’s role adds a layer of tension and complexity to the film’s exploration of boundaries and trust.

What to Expect from The Kindergarten Teacher

Strengths

1. Outstanding Performance by Maggie Gyllenhaal: Gyllenhaal’s performance is a standout feature of the film. Her portrayal of Lisa Spinelli is both compelling and unsettling, capturing the character’s emotional turmoil and moral descent with intensity and nuance.
2. Thought-Provoking Themes: The film tackles important themes such as the ethics of mentorship, the nature of creativity, and the boundaries of personal and professional relationships. It raises questions about the responsibilities of those in positions of power and influence.
3. Intimate and Tense Atmosphere: Sara Colangelo’s direction creates an intimate and tense atmosphere that draws viewers into Lisa’s world. The film’s focus on Lisa’s internal struggles and moral conflicts enhances its emotional impact.
4. Strong Supporting Cast: The supporting cast, including Parker Sevak and Rosa Salazar, adds depth and dimension to the film. Their performances complement Gyllenhaal’s portrayal and contribute to the film’s overall effectiveness.

Weaknesses

1. Slow Pacing: Some viewers may find the film’s pacing slow, particularly in its exploration of Lisa’s obsession and the unfolding drama. The film’s focus on internal conflict and character development may affect its overall pacing.
2. Limited Scope: While the film provides a deep dive into Lisa’s character, it may not fully explore the broader implications of her actions on the educational system or the ethical dilemmas involved.
3. Emotional Intensity: The film’s intense emotional and psychological content may be overwhelming for some viewers. Its focus on dark and complex themes may not appeal to those seeking a lighter or more conventional narrative.

Direction and Cinematography

Sara Colangelo’s direction emphasizes the psychological and emotional aspects of the story, creating a tense and immersive experience. Her approach to storytelling ensures that the film remains engaging and thought-provoking.

The cinematography, by Eric Lin, enhances the film’s intimate and reflective tone. The use of close-ups and subdued lighting helps to convey Lisa’s inner turmoil and the film’s overall atmosphere.

Where to Watch The Kindergarten Teacher Online in the U.S.

Streaming Services

The Kindergarten Teacher is available for streaming on several platforms:

1. Netflix
   • The film is available to stream on Netflix. As of the latest update, it is included with a Netflix subscription.
2. Amazon Prime Video
   • The film can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video. Renting typically costs around $3.99, while purchasing ranges from $9.99 to $12.99.
3. Apple iTunes
   • You can rent or purchase The Kindergarten Teacher on Apple iTunes, with rentals priced around $3.99 and purchase options starting at $9.99.
4. Google Play Movies
   • The film is available for rent or purchase on Google Play Movies, with similar pricing: rentals at $3.99 and purchases ranging from $9.99 to $12.99.
5. Vudu
   • The Kindergarten Teacher can be rented or purchased on Vudu, with rentals typically costing around $2.99 to $4.99 and purchases ranging from $9.99 to $12.99.

Rental and Purchase Options

For additional rental and purchase options, you can also check:

• YouTube Movies
• Microsoft Store

Rental prices generally range from $2.99 to $4.99, with purchase options typically falling between $9.99 and $12.99.

Physical Media

The Kindergarten Teacher is available on DVD and Blu-ray, which can be purchased through major retailers such as Amazon and Walmart. Physical copies may include special features like deleted scenes and behind-the-scenes content.

Conclusion

The Kindergarten Teacher (2018) is a gripping and thought-provoking drama that explores the complexities of mentorship and the boundaries of personal ambition. With an outstanding performance by Maggie Gyllenhaal and a focus on intense and relevant themes, the film offers a compelling and emotionally charged experience. Available for streaming on Netflix and for digital rental and purchase, The Kindergarten Teacher is a must-watch for those interested in character-driven stories and ethical dilemmas.