The Wizard of Lies (2017) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
The Unraveling of Bernie Madoff’s Scandalous Empire
Released in 2017, The Wizard of Lies is a powerful HBO film that delves into the infamous Bernie Madoff scandal. Directed by Barry Levinson and starring Robert De Niro as Madoff and Michelle Pfeiffer as his wife, Ruth, the film offers a gripping portrayal of the largest financial fraud in history. Based on the book of the same name by Diana B. Henriques, the film explores the rise and fall of Madoff’s Ponzi scheme and its devastating impact on investors and his family.
In this review, we’ll examine the film’s narrative, performances, and thematic elements, as well as provide information on where you can stream or purchase The Wizard of Lies.
Plot Overview
The Wizard of Lies centers on Bernie Madoff, a financier whose reputation for stability and success masked a colossal Ponzi scheme that defrauded thousands of investors out of billions of dollars. The film is set against the backdrop of the 2008 financial crisis and chronicles Madoff’s gradual unraveling as his fraudulent operations come to light.
The story follows Madoff as he faces mounting scrutiny and legal challenges, while his family life becomes increasingly strained. His wife, Ruth Madoff, and his two sons, Mark and Andrew, are also deeply affected by the scandal. The film offers an in-depth look at the psychological and emotional toll the scandal takes on both Madoff and his loved ones.
The narrative shifts between Madoff’s interactions with law enforcement and journalists and flashbacks that reveal the origins and mechanics of his fraudulent scheme. It explores the complexities of Madoff’s character, presenting him not just as a villain, but as a man driven by hubris, fear, and a desperate need to maintain his facade of success.
Robert De Niro and Michelle Pfeiffer: A Stellar Casting
- Robert De Niro as Bernie Madoff: De Niro delivers a compelling and nuanced performance as Madoff, capturing the charisma and confidence that allowed him to deceive so many for so long. His portrayal reveals the internal conflict and moral decay beneath Madoff’s calm exterior. De Niro’s ability to convey both the charm and the underlying menace of Madoff adds depth to the character and makes the film’s emotional impact even more potent.
- Michelle Pfeiffer as Ruth Madoff: Pfeiffer’s performance as Ruth is both poignant and powerful. She portrays Ruth’s anguish, confusion, and disillusionment with sensitivity and depth. Ruth’s role in the scandal is complex—she was both an accomplice and a victim—and Pfeiffer navigates these facets with skill, bringing authenticity to her portrayal of a woman caught in the wake of her husband’s catastrophic deception.
Themes of Deception and Hubris
The Wizard of Lies is more than just a recounting of financial fraud; it’s a study of deception and the consequences of living a lie. The film delves into themes of hubris and moral compromise, exploring how Madoff’s ego and sense of invincibility led him to commit one of the greatest financial crimes in history.
The film also addresses the personal costs of such deception, showing how Madoff’s actions ripple outwards, affecting not just his investors but his family as well. The emotional toll on Ruth and the Madoff children is a central element of the story, highlighting the personal destruction that accompanies financial crime.
Barry Levinson’s Direction
Barry Levinson’s direction is both intimate and expansive, capturing the high stakes of the financial scandal while also focusing on the personal drama of the Madoff family. Levinson skillfully balances the technical aspects of the financial fraud with the emotional and psychological depth of the characters.
The film’s pacing and structure are designed to keep the audience engaged, with a narrative that alternates between the unfolding scandal and the backstory of Madoff’s rise to power. Levinson’s attention to detail ensures that the film is both informative and emotionally impactful.
Visual and Technical Aspects
The cinematography in The Wizard of Lies is understated but effective, emphasizing the stark contrast between the opulence of Madoff’s life and the eventual collapse of his empire. The film’s visual style mirrors the somber and tense atmosphere of the story, with a focus on close-ups and subdued colors that reflect the gravity of the situation.
The film’s score complements its tone, with a haunting and subtle soundtrack that underscores the drama and emotional weight of the narrative.
Where to Watch The Wizard of Lies Online
For those interested in watching The Wizard of Lies, here are some options for streaming or purchasing the film in the U.S.:
Streaming Services
- HBO Max: As an HBO production, The Wizard of Lies is available for streaming on HBO Max. Subscribers can watch the film in high-definition on this platform.
- Hulu + HBO Max: If you have access to Hulu’s HBO Max add-on, you can stream The Wizard of Lies through Hulu as well.
Rental/Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video: The film can be rented or purchased in both HD and SD formats on Amazon Prime Video.
- Apple TV/iTunes: The Wizard of Lies is available for rental or purchase on Apple TV/iTunes, allowing you to download the film for offline viewing.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Rent or buy The Wizard of Lies on Google Play, with options for streaming or downloading the film.
- Vudu: The film is available for rental or purchase on Vudu, offering HD quality for both options.
Why The Wizard of Lies Is Worth Watching
The Wizard of Lies is a gripping and thought-provoking film that offers a deep dive into one of the most notorious financial scandals of our time. With standout performances from Robert De Niro and Michelle Pfeiffer, and a compelling narrative that explores the personal and financial fallout of Bernie Madoff’s fraud, the film is a must-watch for anyone interested in financial crime, psychological drama, or character studies.
The film’s portrayal of Madoff’s rise and fall is both riveting and sobering, making it an important piece of cinematic storytelling about deception, hubris, and the far-reaching effects of a financial scandal.
Conclusion
The Wizard of Lies (2017) is an incisive examination of Bernie Madoff’s massive financial fraud and its impact on his family and countless investors. With powerful performances from De Niro and Pfeiffer, and a deft direction by Barry Levinson, the film provides a detailed and emotionally resonant portrayal of one of the greatest financial scandals in history. It’s a compelling watch for anyone interested in the darker side of finance and the personal consequences of living a lie.
