The Sadness (2021) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
The Sadness (2021) is a Taiwanese horror film directed by Rob Jabbaz that has gained significant attention for its intense and unflinching portrayal of a viral outbreak. Known for its graphic violence and chilling atmosphere, the film offers a fresh take on the zombie genre, blending elements of psychological horror and societal commentary. In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, characters, and themes, and provide information on where you can stream or rent it online.
Plot Overview: A Viral Apocalypse
The Sadness revolves around a terrifying viral outbreak that turns people into violent, rage-fueled monsters. The film follows a young couple as they navigate a city overrun by the infected and struggle to survive amidst the chaos.
The Premise
The film is set in a dystopian future where a virus transforms ordinary people into psychotic killers. The story focuses on Jim (Berant Zhu) and Cat (Regina Lei), who are trying to survive and find each other in a city descending into anarchy.
Key Plot Points
- The Outbreak: The film begins with the outbreak of a virus that causes extreme rage and violence in its victims. The rapid spread of the virus leads to widespread chaos and destruction.
- Survival Struggles: Jim and Cat, separated by the outbreak, must navigate through a city plagued by the infected, facing both physical and psychological challenges.
- Psychological Impact: As the couple encounters other survivors and witnesses the horrors unleashed by the virus, the psychological toll of their experiences becomes a central focus.
- Climactic Confrontations: The film builds towards intense and brutal confrontations as Jim and Cat attempt to reunite and escape the horrors of the city.
Characters and Performances
Jim (Berant Zhu)
Berant Zhu plays Jim, one of the film’s protagonists. His performance captures the desperation and determination of a man fighting to survive and find his loved one amidst the chaos.
Cat (Regina Lei)
Regina Lei portrays Cat, Jim’s partner, who faces her own harrowing experiences as she tries to navigate the dangerous city and reunite with Jim. Lei’s performance adds emotional depth to the film.
Supporting Characters
The film features a range of supporting characters, including both survivors and infected individuals. These characters contribute to the film’s exploration of human nature and the impact of the virus.
Themes: Violence, Humanity, and Survival
The Sadness explores several key themes:
Violence and Human Nature
The film’s graphic depiction of violence serves as a commentary on the darker aspects of human nature. It questions how quickly society can unravel when faced with uncontrollable forces.
Survival and Despair
The struggle for survival is central to the film, highlighting the lengths to which individuals will go to protect themselves and their loved ones. The theme of despair is prevalent as characters confront the bleak realities of their situation.
Societal Breakdown
The Sadness also explores the concept of societal breakdown, depicting how a virus can lead to the collapse of social structures and moral boundaries.
Reception and Legacy
The Sadness has been noted for its intense and provocative content, drawing comparisons to classic zombie and horror films while offering a unique and disturbing twist. The film received praise for its raw and unflinching portrayal of violence, though its graphic nature has also been a point of contention among viewers.
The film’s ability to combine horror with social commentary has earned it a place in the contemporary horror genre, appealing to fans of extreme cinema and those interested in exploring the darker side of human nature.
Where to Watch The Sadness (2021) Online
If you’re interested in watching The Sadness, here’s where you can find it:
Streaming Services
- Shudder: As a horror streaming service, Shudder is a primary platform where The Sadness may be available. Check Shudder’s catalog for availability.
- Amazon Prime Video: The film might be available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video, either through a subscription or as a rental/purchase option.
Rental and Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase. Rentals typically start at $3.99, with purchase options around $14.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: The film can be rented or purchased, with rentals starting at $3.99 and purchases around $14.99.
- Apple TV/iTunes: Available for rent or purchase through Apple TV, with similar pricing to other digital platforms.
- Vudu: Offers rental and purchase options, starting at $3.99 for rentals and $14.99 for purchases.
Conclusion: A Disturbing and Intense Horror Experience
The Sadness (2021) offers a gripping and unsettling exploration of a viral apocalypse, combining extreme horror with psychological and societal themes. With powerful performances by Berant Zhu and Regina Lei, and a narrative that challenges the boundaries of the genre, the film is a compelling watch for horror enthusiasts. Available for streaming on Shudder and through various rental and purchase options, The Sadness is a must-watch for those seeking a raw and provocative horror experience.
