The Visitor (2007) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
The Visitor (2007), directed by Tom McCarthy, is a poignant drama that explores themes of loneliness, cultural displacement, and the transformative power of human connection. The film stars Richard Jenkins, Haaz Sleiman, Danai Gurira, and is noted for its sensitive portrayal of contemporary social issues. Jenkins’ performance as the lead character is particularly celebrated for its depth and nuance.
Plot Summary
The story centers on Walter Vale (Richard Jenkins), a widowed, disillusioned college professor living a quiet and monotonous life in Connecticut. Walter’s routine is disrupted when he is asked to attend a conference in New York City. During his visit, he discovers that his apartment in the city has been rented out to a young immigrant couple, Tarek (Haaz Sleiman) and Zainab (Danai Gurira), who are living in the apartment illegally.
Initially, Walter is reluctant to interact with the new tenants, but his curiosity eventually leads him to form a connection with Tarek and Zainab. Tarek, a Syrian drummer, invites Walter to one of his performances, and the two men develop a friendship. Walter also grows close to Zainab and begins to confront his own feelings of isolation and grief.
The film takes a dramatic turn when Tarek is arrested by immigration authorities and faces deportation. Walter becomes involved in Tarek’s plight, and the experience forces him to grapple with issues of immigration, justice, and personal responsibility. The story explores how these events impact Walter’s life and his evolving sense of purpose.
Critical Reception
The Visitor received critical acclaim for its heartfelt storytelling and Richard Jenkins’ standout performance.
Strengths:
- Performance: Richard Jenkins’ portrayal of Walter Vale is widely praised for its depth and subtlety. Jenkins delivers a moving and nuanced performance that anchors the film’s emotional core.
- Storytelling and Direction: Tom McCarthy’s direction and screenplay are noted for their sensitivity and realism. The film addresses complex social issues without becoming heavy-handed, offering a thoughtful and balanced perspective.
- Themes: The film’s exploration of loneliness, human connection, and social justice resonates deeply with viewers. Its portrayal of the immigrant experience and the challenges faced by undocumented individuals is both timely and poignant.
Weaknesses:
- Pacing: Some critics found the film’s pacing to be slow at times, with certain scenes dragging compared to the more impactful moments.
- Secondary Characters: While the main characters are well-developed, some reviewers felt that the secondary characters could have been given more depth and development.
Overall, The Visitor is celebrated for its empathetic approach to complex social issues and the powerful performance by Richard Jenkins. It stands out as a compelling drama that successfully combines personal and political themes.
Themes and Analysis
The Visitor explores several significant themes:
- Isolation and Connection: The film delves into the theme of loneliness and the transformative power of human connection. Walter Vale’s journey from isolation to engagement highlights the impact of genuine relationships on personal growth and healing.
- Immigration and Social Justice: The film addresses contemporary issues related to immigration and the challenges faced by undocumented individuals. It offers a humanizing perspective on these issues, emphasizing the personal stories behind the headlines.
- Personal Responsibility and Change: Walter’s involvement in Tarek’s situation forces him to confront his own responsibilities and make meaningful changes in his life. The film explores the theme of personal responsibility and the potential for individuals to make a difference in the lives of others.
- Grief and Healing: Walter’s character is deeply affected by the death of his wife, and the film examines his process of grieving and healing. The relationships he forms with Tarek and Zainab play a crucial role in his emotional recovery.
Where to Watch The Visitor Online
If you’re interested in watching The Visitor (2007), here are some options:
1. Streaming Services
- Hulu: The Visitor is available for streaming on Hulu. Subscribers can watch the film as part of their subscription package.
- Amazon Prime Video: The film may also be available on Amazon Prime Video as part of their streaming library.
2. Rental/Purchase Services
- Amazon Video: You can rent or purchase The Visitor on Amazon Video. Rental prices typically start around $3.99, with purchase options available for approximately $12.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Google Play offers rental and purchase options for The Visitor. Rentals generally cost around $3.99, while purchasing the film starts at about $12.99.
- Apple iTunes: The Visitor is available for rental or purchase on Apple iTunes. Rentals usually cost about $3.99, and purchasing the film generally costs $12.99.
- Vudu: Vudu provides rental and purchase options for The Visitor. Rental prices are similar to other platforms, starting around $3.99, and purchasing the film generally costs about $12.99.
Conclusion
The Visitor (2007) is a moving and thoughtful film that offers a poignant exploration of loneliness, human connection, and social justice. With a standout performance by Richard Jenkins and a sensitive approach to complex issues, the film provides a compelling and emotional viewing experience.
Whether you’re interested in its thematic depth or simply enjoy well-crafted drama, The Visitor is a film that resonates on multiple levels. With various streaming and rental options available, you can easily access this impactful film and experience its powerful story at your convenience.
