Things We Lost in the Fire (2017) Movie Review: A Poignant Drama of Resilience and Redemption
Release Year: 2017
Director: Susanne Bier
Running Time: 1h 41m
Things We Lost in the Fire is a 2017 drama directed by Susanne Bier that explores themes of loss, resilience, and the quest for redemption. The film, featuring a compelling cast and a deeply moving narrative, delves into the lives of individuals affected by a tragic event and their journeys toward healing. In this article, we will explore the film’s key elements and provide information on where you can stream, rent, or purchase Things We Lost in the Fire in the U.S.
Plot Summary of Things We Lost in the Fire
Things We Lost in the Fire follows the story of a close-knit community grappling with the aftermath of a devastating fire. The film centers around a group of survivors whose lives have been irrevocably changed by the disaster. As they struggle to rebuild their lives, they confront personal demons, seek redemption, and find unexpected connections with one another.
The narrative weaves together multiple storylines, highlighting the characters’ emotional journeys as they navigate their grief and attempt to move forward. The film’s exploration of human resilience and the impact of tragedy offers a poignant and thought-provoking experience.
The Cast and Performances
- Benicio del Toro stars as Danny, one of the key survivors of the fire. Del Toro delivers a powerful performance that captures the depth of Danny’s emotional struggle and his quest for redemption.
- Amy Ryan plays Susan, a character whose personal journey intersects with Danny’s. Ryan’s portrayal adds a layer of complexity and emotional depth to the film.
- David Dastmalchian appears as Mike, a fellow survivor whose experiences and relationships are central to the film’s narrative. Dastmalchian’s performance brings authenticity and nuance to the character.
Ushio Shinohara’s Direction and Style
Ushio Shinohara directs Things We Lost in the Fire with a focus on character-driven storytelling and emotional depth. Shinohara’s direction emphasizes the personal and collective impact of the fire, creating a heartfelt and engaging narrative.
The film’s direction includes a blend of intimate character studies and broader thematic exploration. Shinohara effectively captures the emotional weight of the story, providing a compelling and resonant experience for viewers.
Themes of Loss, Resilience, and Redemption
Things We Lost in the Fire explores themes of loss, resilience, and the search for redemption in the wake of tragedy. The film delves into the psychological and emotional effects of a catastrophic event on individuals and their relationships.
The narrative examines how people cope with grief, rebuild their lives, and find meaning in their experiences. The film’s portrayal of these themes offers a moving and insightful perspective on the human condition.
Visuals and Cinematography
The film’s cinematography, by Masanobu Takayanagi, captures the emotional intensity and physical aftermath of the fire. The use of striking visuals and careful framing enhances the film’s exploration of personal and collective trauma.
The visual style complements the narrative, with a focus on creating a visually compelling and emotionally resonant portrayal of the characters’ journeys.
Critical Reception and Legacy
Things We Lost in the Fire received positive reviews for its powerful performances and emotional depth. The film was praised for its portrayal of complex characters and its exploration of themes related to loss and redemption.
The film’s legacy is defined by its ability to address important and sensitive topics with nuance and empathy. Things We Lost in the Fire stands out as a poignant and impactful drama in contemporary cinema.
Where to Watch Things We Lost in the Fire Online in the U.S. (2024)
1. Streaming Platforms
- Amazon Prime Video
Things We Lost in the Fire is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Subscribers can watch the film as part of their Prime membership. - Hulu
The film may be available on Hulu. Hulu’s platform provides access to a variety of films and TV shows, including dramas like Things We Lost in the Fire.
2. Rental and Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video
For those interested in renting or purchasing a digital copy, Things We Lost in the Fire can be rented for $4.99 or purchased for $12.99 on Amazon Prime Video. This option allows for flexible viewing on various devices. - Google Play Movies
The film is available for rent or purchase on Google Play Movies. Rentals start at $4.99, and the purchase option is priced at $12.99. - Apple iTunes
On Apple iTunes, Things We Lost in the Fire can be rented for $4.99 or purchased for $12.99. The HD version can be downloaded for offline viewing on Apple devices.
3. Physical Media
For those who prefer physical copies, Things We Lost in the Fire is available on DVD. These editions can be found through major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy. The DVD version often includes additional features such as interviews and behind-the-scenes content.
Final Thoughts
Things We Lost in the Fire (2017) offers a deeply moving and thought-provoking exploration of loss, resilience, and redemption. Directed by Susanne Bier and featuring strong performances by Benicio del Toro and Amy Ryan, the film provides a compelling and emotional viewing experience.
Whether you’re drawn to character-driven dramas or interested in stories of personal and collective recovery, Things We Lost in the Fire delivers both emotional depth and insight. With its availability on major streaming platforms and for rental or purchase, it’s easy to enjoy this impactful film from the comfort of your home.
