The Salvation (2014) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
The Salvation (2014) is a Danish-Western film directed by Kristian Levring and starring Mads Mikkelsen, Eva Green, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, and Mikael Persbrandt. Set in the American frontier in the late 19th century, the film is a gripping tale of revenge and survival in a harsh and unforgiving landscape. Known for its intense performances and classic Western themes, The Salvation offers a modern take on the genre while paying homage to its roots.
In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, performances, themes, and where you can watch The Salvation online in the U.S.
Plot Summary: A Tale of Revenge and Justice
The Salvation follows the story of Jon (Mads Mikkelsen), a Danish immigrant who has settled in the American West with his family. After a tragic event in which Jon’s wife and son are brutally murdered by a gang led by the ruthless Delarue (Jeffrey Dean Morgan), Jon takes the law into his own hands and seeks vengeance.
As Jon exacts his revenge on the gang, he finds himself entangled in a larger conflict involving the lawless and corrupt elements of the frontier town. His actions draw the attention of the local authorities and other powerful figures, leading to escalating violence and further complications.
The film’s narrative unfolds with Jon’s struggle to maintain his humanity and protect his remaining family while navigating a world filled with moral ambiguity and brutal justice. The story explores themes of revenge, justice, and survival in a lawless environment.
Performances: Mads Mikkelsen and Jeffrey Dean Morgan Lead the Cast
The performances in The Salvation are a standout feature, with strong contributions from the lead actors:
- Mads Mikkelsen: Mikkelsen delivers a powerful performance as Jon, portraying the character’s grief, determination, and internal conflict with depth and nuance. His portrayal adds emotional weight to the film and makes Jon’s journey both compelling and tragic.
- Jeffrey Dean Morgan: Morgan plays Delarue, the antagonist of the film, with a menacing and charismatic presence. His performance captures the ruthless and unpredictable nature of his character, making him a formidable opponent for Jon.
- Eva Green: Green, as Madelaine, provides a strong supporting performance, adding complexity to the story and contributing to the film’s emotional depth.
The ensemble cast effectively brings the film’s characters to life, enhancing the overall impact of the narrative.
Themes: Revenge, Justice, and Survival
The Salvation explores several key themes:
- Revenge: The film’s central theme is revenge, with Jon’s quest for justice driving the narrative. It examines the consequences of seeking vengeance and the moral implications of taking the law into one’s own hands.
- Justice: The film contrasts personal justice with legal and societal justice, exploring the challenges of enforcing morality in a lawless environment. It raises questions about the nature of justice and the role of the individual in seeking it.
- Survival: The harsh and unforgiving frontier setting highlights the theme of survival, both physically and morally. The characters must navigate a brutal landscape where survival often comes at a high cost.
These themes are woven into the film’s action and drama, providing a rich and thought-provoking backdrop for the story.
Direction and Cinematography: A Modern Western with Classic Flair
Kristian Levring’s direction and the film’s cinematography contribute to its engaging and immersive experience:
- Direction: Levring’s direction captures the tension and intensity of the story, balancing action with character development. His approach to the Western genre combines classic elements with modern sensibilities, creating a film that feels both timeless and contemporary.
- Cinematography: The cinematography by Jens Schlosser effectively captures the rugged beauty of the American West. The film’s visuals highlight the harsh environment and enhance the mood of the story. The use of wide shots and close-ups adds to the film’s dramatic and atmospheric quality.
The combination of direction and cinematography creates a visually striking and immersive Western experience.
Where to Watch The Salvation Online
If you’re interested in watching The Salvation, here are the available streaming and rental options in the U.S.:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: The Salvation can be streamed with an Amazon Prime subscription or rented/purchased through Amazon Video.
Rental and Purchase Options
- Amazon Video: The Salvation is available for rent or purchase on Amazon Video. Rental prices start at $3.99, with purchase options available for $12.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: The film can be rented or bought on Google Play. Rental prices start at $3.99, with purchases available for $12.99.
- Apple iTunes: The movie is available for rent at $3.99 or for purchase at $12.99 on iTunes.
- Vudu: The Salvation can be rented or purchased on Vudu, with similar pricing to other platforms.
Why You Should Watch The Salvation (2014)
The Salvation offers a compelling and intense take on the Western genre. With strong performances from Mads Mikkelsen and Jeffrey Dean Morgan, a gripping narrative, and striking cinematography, the film provides a modern yet classic Western experience.
If you enjoy tales of revenge, justice, and survival set against the backdrop of the American frontier, The Salvation is a film worth watching. Its blend of action, drama, and thematic depth ensures an engaging and memorable cinematic experience.
Final Thoughts
The Salvation combines classic Western elements with a contemporary narrative, creating a powerful and immersive film. Its strong performances, engaging story, and striking visuals make it a standout entry in the genre.
Ready to experience a gripping Western adventure? Stream The Salvation on Amazon Prime Video or explore other rental and purchase options to enjoy this intense and dramatic film.
