The Room (2019) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Introduction: A Dark Twist on the Classic “Be Careful What You Wish For” Motif
The Room (2019), directed by Christian Volckman, is a psychological thriller that explores the complexities of desire and the perils of playing god. Starring Olga Kurylenko and Kevin Janssens, the film invites viewers into the unsettling world of a couple who discovers a hidden room in their new home that grants them any material wish they make. However, this seemingly magical room leads them down a dark path filled with moral dilemmas and disturbing consequences.
In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, performances, and overall execution, along with details on where to stream or rent The Room online in the U.S.
Plot Overview: A Room of Desires and Nightmares
The story follows Kate (Olga Kurylenko) and Matt (Kevin Janssens), a childless couple who relocate from New York City to a decaying Victorian mansion in rural Maryland. Their new home is as haunting as it is beautiful, with peeling paint and a dilapidated interior reminiscent of literary gothic tales. As they embark on renovations, they stumble upon a hidden room that seems to have supernatural capabilities.
Initially, the couple revels in the room’s power, using it to fulfill their material desires—ranging from exquisite food and luxurious items to substantial sums of money. However, when the emotional void of their childlessness becomes too overwhelming, Kate makes a fateful wish for a child. What follows is a harrowing exploration of the consequences that arise when they summon a living being into existence.
Performance Highlights: Captivating Chemistry and Convincing Emotions
Olga Kurylenko and Kevin Janssens deliver strong performances that bring depth to their characters. Kurylenko effectively portrays Kate’s internal struggle, oscillating between excitement and horror as the implications of their wishes become evident. Janssens’ portrayal of Matt balances skepticism and desperation, making their dynamic believable as they grapple with the surreal events surrounding them.
The chemistry between the leads is palpable, allowing the audience to invest emotionally in their relationship. Their banter and shared moments of levity juxtapose the escalating tension as they confront the consequences of their choices.
Themes: The Dangers of Desire and Playing God
The Room delves into heavy themes such as the ethical implications of desire, the pursuit of fulfillment, and the consequences of reckless ambition. The film serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of seeking to fulfill emotional voids through materialism and the supernatural.
As Kate and Matt’s wishes spiral out of control, the film prompts viewers to reflect on the nature of their desires and the potential ramifications of their actions. It poses critical questions about the moral responsibilities that come with the ability to create or summon life, challenging the characters’ initial naiveté.
Direction and Cinematic Style: A Visually Haunting Experience
Christian Volckman’s direction captures the eerie atmosphere of the couple’s home, enhancing the film’s suspense and unease. The cinematography effectively juxtaposes the mansion’s beauty with its underlying decay, creating a visually compelling setting that reflects the characters’ emotional turmoil.
The pacing of the film is deliberate, allowing tension to build gradually as the couple’s circumstances become increasingly dire. Volckman’s use of lighting and shadow contributes to the film’s haunting ambiance, immersing viewers in its unsettling narrative.
Critical Reception: A Mixed Bag with Thrills and Frustrations
Upon its release, The Room garnered a mixed reception from critics and audiences. While some praised its unique premise and the emotional weight of its themes, others noted its uneven execution and the sometimes frustrating lack of exposition regarding the room’s origins. The screenplay has been critiqued for its reliance on cliched dialogue and awkward exposition, which can detract from the film’s overall impact.
However, many viewers found the film’s second half to be a thrilling ride filled with unexpected twists and turns. The descent into chaos and moral ambiguity creates a genuinely unnerving experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
Where to Watch The Room Online in the U.S.
As of 2023, The Room is available on various streaming platforms, making it accessible for viewers:
1. Streaming Services: Subscription-Based Platforms
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for streaming for Amazon Prime members.
2. Rental Options: Pay-Per-View Platforms
For those who prefer to rent the film, The Room can be found on several pay-per-view platforms:
- Apple TV: Rent for $3.99 in HD.
- Google Play Movies: Rent for $3.99 in HD.
- Amazon Prime Video: Rent for $3.99 in HD.
3. Purchase Options: Own the Film
For viewers who wish to own a digital copy, the movie is available for purchase:
- Apple TV: Purchase for $14.99.
- Amazon Prime Video: Own the movie for $14.99 in HD.
- Google Play Movies: Purchase for $14.99.
Conclusion: A Disturbing Exploration of Desire
The Room (2019) offers a gripping and disturbing look at the consequences of desire and the moral complexities that arise from unchecked ambition. With strong performances from Olga Kurylenko and Kevin Janssens, the film captivates and unsettles, prompting viewers to contemplate the ramifications of their own desires.
While it may not fully satisfy all viewers, its unique premise and haunting execution make it a thought-provoking addition to the thriller genre. Available for streaming, rental, or purchase, The Room is worth watching for those intrigued by stories that blend psychological tension with moral dilemmas.
