The Poison Rose (2019) Movie Review
Introduction
“The Poison Rose,” released in 2019, is a crime thriller directed by George Gallo and Francesco Cinquemani. Based on the novel by Richard Salvatore, this film brings together an impressive cast, including John Travolta, Morgan Freeman, and Brendan Fraser. Set against the backdrop of a noir-style mystery, “The Poison Rose” aims to captivate audiences with its tale of intrigue, corruption, and redemption. This review will explore the plot, characters, reception, and provide information on where to stream or purchase “The Poison Rose” in the United States.
Plot Summary
Carson Phillips (John Travolta) is a down-and-out private investigator in Los Angeles, known for his penchant for drinking and gambling. When he’s hired to investigate the case of a missing woman in his hometown of Galveston, Texas, Carson reluctantly returns to the place he left behind. What begins as a simple missing persons case quickly spirals into a complex web of deceit involving murder, corruption, and long-buried secrets.
As Carson digs deeper, he crosses paths with a colorful cast of characters, including Doc (Morgan Freeman), a shady doctor with his own agenda; Jayne Hunt (Famke Janssen), a former lover with ties to the case; and Dr. Miles Mitchell (Brendan Fraser), a doctor with a mysterious past. As Carson unravels the truth, he must confront his own demons and decide where his loyalties lie.
Characters and Cast
- Carson Phillips (John Travolta): A jaded private investigator with a troubled past, Carson is the film’s protagonist who must navigate a dangerous web of lies and corruption.
- Doc (Morgan Freeman): A sinister doctor with deep connections in Galveston, Doc’s motives are as murky as his medical practices.
- Jayne Hunt (Famke Janssen): Carson’s former lover, who becomes embroiled in the mystery and holds key information about the case.
- Dr. Miles Mitchell (Brendan Fraser): A doctor with a hidden agenda, whose involvement in the case raises suspicions.
- Rose (Ella Bleu Travolta): A significant figure in the story whose fate is tied to the central mystery.
Reception and Critique
“The Poison Rose” received mixed to negative reviews from critics and audiences. While the film boasts a strong cast and an intriguing premise, it often falls short in execution.
Positive Aspects
- Performances: John Travolta and Morgan Freeman deliver solid performances, bringing depth to their characters and elevating the material.
- Atmosphere: The film successfully captures a classic noir feel, with its moody cinematography and evocative setting.
Negative Aspects
- Plot Coherence: The storyline can be convoluted and difficult to follow, with numerous subplots and red herrings that detract from the main narrative.
- Pacing: The film’s pacing is uneven, with some parts dragging and others feeling rushed, which impacts the overall suspense.
- Character Development: Some characters lack sufficient development, making it hard for viewers to connect with their motivations and actions.
Where to Watch “The Poison Rose” in the USA
For those interested in watching “The Poison Rose,” there are several streaming services and platforms where the film is available:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: The film is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Subscribers can watch it as part of their subscription or rent/purchase it separately.
- Hulu: “The Poison Rose” is sometimes available on Hulu. Check Hulu’s current catalog for availability.
Rental/Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video: In addition to streaming, you can rent or purchase the film on Amazon Prime Video. Rental prices typically range from $3.99 to $4.99, while purchase prices vary from $12.99 to $14.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: The film can be rented or purchased on Google Play. Rental prices usually start at $3.99, and purchase prices range from $12.99 to $14.99.
- iTunes: “The Poison Rose” is available for rent or purchase on iTunes. Rental prices are around $3.99, and purchase prices are approximately $14.99.
- Vudu: Another option for renting or purchasing the film is Vudu. Rental costs are typically $3.99 to $4.99, and purchase prices range from $12.99 to $14.99.
Conclusion
“The Poison Rose” presents a classic noir mystery with a modern twist, anchored by strong performances from John Travolta and Morgan Freeman. While the film’s plot can be convoluted and its pacing uneven, it offers a moody and atmospheric experience for fans of the genre. For viewers in the United States, the film is accessible on various streaming services and rental platforms. Whether you choose to stream, rent, or purchase, “The Poison Rose” provides a glimpse into a dark and twisted world of crime and redemption.
