The Ninth Gate (1999) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Directed by Roman Polanski and starring Johnny Depp, The Ninth Gate (1999) is a neo-noir mystery thriller that delves into the occult and the arcane. Based on the novel The Dumas Club by Arturo Pérez-Reverte, the film follows a rare book dealer who becomes entangled in a sinister plot involving a legendary book said to hold the secrets of the Devil himself. With its atmospheric visuals, intricate plot, and a touch of supernatural intrigue, The Ninth Gate offers a unique blend of mystery and horror.
In this review, we’ll explore the plot, performances, and thematic elements of The Ninth Gate, as well as provide information on where you can stream or rent the film online in the U.S.
Plot Overview
The Ninth Gate follows Dean Corso (Johnny Depp), a rare book dealer with a reputation for tracking down and authenticating valuable books. Corso is hired by a wealthy collector, Boris Balkan (Frank Langella), to investigate the authenticity of a rare and controversial book known as The Nine Gates of the Kingdom of Shadows. This book, written by the enigmatic author Aristide Torchia in the 17th century, is rumored to be a manual for summoning the Devil.
Balkan has acquired three copies of the book, each with unique illustrations and texts that differ slightly. He believes that one of these copies is genuine and holds the key to summoning dark forces. As Corso delves into the investigation, he uncovers a web of deceit and danger that leads him into the heart of a deadly occult conspiracy.
Throughout his journey, Corso encounters a series of mysterious and often deadly individuals, including a beautiful and enigmatic woman named Liana Telfer (Lena Olin) and her husband, who are both deeply involved in the occult. As Corso gets closer to unraveling the mystery, he finds himself confronting dark forces that challenge his understanding of reality and his own sanity.
Performances
Johnny Depp delivers a compelling performance as Dean Corso, a character who is both skeptical and driven by curiosity. Depp’s portrayal of Corso is marked by a sense of detached professionalism that gradually gives way to vulnerability as the supernatural elements of the plot unfold. His performance effectively conveys Corso’s transformation from a cynical book dealer to a man deeply affected by the dark forces he encounters.
Frank Langella is equally impressive as Boris Balkan, the wealthy collector whose obsession with the occult drives much of the film’s plot. Langella brings a charismatic and menacing presence to the role, making Balkan a memorable antagonist whose motivations are both complex and unsettling.
Lena Olin as Liana Telfer adds a layer of mystique and danger to the film. Her character is enigmatic and alluring, and Olin’s performance enhances the film’s tension and intrigue. Liana’s interactions with Corso are fraught with underlying tension, adding depth to the film’s exploration of the occult.
Emmanuelle Seigner, Polanski’s wife, appears in a small but pivotal role as the mysterious woman who appears in Corso’s investigation. Her role adds to the film’s atmosphere of ambiguity and danger.
Themes and Cinematic Style
The Ninth Gate explores themes of power, knowledge, and the consequences of seeking forbidden knowledge. The film delves into the allure of the occult and the idea that some knowledge is better left undiscovered. The book at the center of the plot symbolizes the dangerous pursuit of absolute power and the potential consequences of dabbling in dark forces.
Roman Polanski’s direction creates an atmosphere of suspense and unease throughout the film. The cinematography, by Darius Khondji, is striking, with its use of shadow and light contributing to the film’s dark, brooding atmosphere. The visuals are often reminiscent of classic noir films, with their moody, atmospheric quality enhancing the sense of dread and mystery.
The film’s pacing is deliberate, allowing for a slow build of tension as Corso uncovers more about the book and the people surrounding it. This methodical approach to storytelling helps to build a sense of creeping dread and anticipation.
The Supernatural Elements
While The Ninth Gate is not a conventional horror film, it incorporates supernatural elements that contribute to its eerie and unsettling atmosphere. The idea of a book with the power to summon the Devil provides a framework for exploring themes of power and corruption. The film uses these elements to create a sense of cosmic horror, where the true terror lies not just in the events but in the implications of the knowledge being sought.
The film’s climax brings the various threads of the plot together in a chilling and enigmatic resolution. The ending leaves some questions unanswered, adding to the film’s sense of mystery and leaving viewers with much to ponder about the nature of the occult and the search for forbidden knowledge.
Where to Watch The Ninth Gate (1999) Online
For those interested in watching The Ninth Gate, here’s where you can find the film available for streaming or rental in the U.S.:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video – The Ninth Gate is available to stream for Prime members with an additional subscription to the service. You can also find the film available for rent or purchase.
- Hulu – The film is available for streaming on Hulu as part of its movie library.
Rental and Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video – Rent the film for $3.99 or purchase it for $12.99.
- Apple iTunes – Available for rental at $3.99 or purchase at $12.99.
- Google Play Movies – Rent the film for $3.99 or purchase for $12.99.
- Vudu – The film is available for rent at $3.99 or purchase for $12.99.
Why The Ninth Gate is Worth Watching
The Ninth Gate (1999) is a stylish and atmospheric film that offers a unique take on the occult and the noir genre. Roman Polanski’s direction, coupled with strong performances from Johnny Depp and Frank Langella, creates a film that is both intriguing and unsettling. The exploration of forbidden knowledge and the supernatural elements provide a thought-provoking backdrop for the story.
For fans of mystery and horror, The Ninth Gate provides a blend of intellectual intrigue and supernatural suspense, making it a standout entry in the genre. Its cinematic style and thematic depth ensure that it remains a compelling watch for those interested in dark and enigmatic storytelling.
Conclusion
The Ninth Gate (1999) is a film that combines mystery, noir, and supernatural elements to create a gripping and atmospheric experience. With its strong performances, intriguing plot, and Polanski’s masterful direction, the film offers a unique and thought-provoking exploration of the occult.
For U.S. viewers, The Ninth Gate is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video and Hulu, with rental and purchase options on platforms like Amazon, iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu. Whether you’re a fan of Roman Polanski’s work or simply enjoy a good mystery with a supernatural twist, The Ninth Gate is worth a watch.
