Thoroughbreds (2018) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Thoroughbreds (2018), directed by Cory Finley in his feature debut, is a dark, psychological thriller that blends sharp dialogue, chilling performances, and stylish visuals to explore the complexities of wealth, privilege, and moral detachment. The film has garnered attention for its unique tone and narrative, combining elements of a suspenseful thriller with biting dark comedy. Starring Olivia Cooke and Anya Taylor-Joy, Thoroughbreds is a slow-burn tale of manipulation, nihilism, and fractured friendship. Let’s break down why this film stands out and where you can watch it online in 2024.
Plot Summary: A Cold, Calculated Friendship
At the heart of Thoroughbreds are two teenage girls: Amanda (Olivia Cooke) and Lily (Anya Taylor-Joy). Amanda is emotionless and detached, while Lily is outwardly well-adjusted but harbors deep-seated resentments. The two were childhood friends who reconnect during their teenage years, albeit under unusual circumstances—Amanda is under psychological evaluation after a disturbing incident involving her horse.
As the film progresses, the pair begins to discuss their respective issues, including Lily’s disdain for her controlling stepfather, Mark (Paul Sparks). Their conversations take a dark turn when they start to entertain the idea of murder, leading them to recruit a local drug dealer, Tim (played by Anton Yelchin in one of his final roles), to help carry out their plan. What follows is a tense, meticulously paced narrative that challenges the audience’s perceptions of morality and friendship.
The movie’s tone is cold, with a stark, minimalist aesthetic that complements the detached emotions of the characters. The cinematography and sparse use of music contribute to the building sense of unease, culminating in a final act that is both shocking and deeply unsettling.
Themes: Morality, Privilege, and Psychopathy
One of the film’s most fascinating aspects is its exploration of privilege and emotional detachment. Both Amanda and Lily come from wealthy backgrounds, and their insulated lives allow them to navigate moral boundaries with an almost clinical lack of concern for consequences. Amanda’s detachment is framed as a kind of psychopathy—she openly admits she feels no emotion—but it’s Lily’s hidden darkness that becomes the film’s true revelation.
Thoroughbreds explores how wealth can insulate individuals from reality and morality. The girls’ chilling conversations about murder feel almost like a game, a reflection of their detachment from the world outside their privileged bubble. There’s an eerie tension throughout the film as the lines between right and wrong blur, leaving the audience questioning who, if anyone, they should sympathize with.
Why Thoroughbreds Stands Out
The standout performances by Olivia Cooke and Anya Taylor-Joy elevate Thoroughbreds from a standard thriller to something much more thought-provoking. Cooke’s portrayal of Amanda, with her deadpan delivery and lack of empathy, is captivating in its subtlety. Meanwhile, Taylor-Joy’s Lily is a character that transforms throughout the film, revealing hidden layers of malice beneath her seemingly perfect exterior.
Cory Finley’s direction is another highlight. His background in theater is evident in the film’s emphasis on dialogue and character interaction, making the conversations between Amanda and Lily feel like a twisted intellectual sparring match. The slow pacing may not appeal to all viewers, but those who appreciate a meticulous, character-driven thriller will find Thoroughbreds deeply rewarding.
Where to Watch Thoroughbreds Online in 2024
For those interested in experiencing this gripping psychological thriller, Thoroughbreds is widely available across various streaming platforms. Here’s where you can stream or purchase the film in the U.S.
1. Hulu
Thoroughbreds is available to stream on Hulu for subscribers. Hulu offers a wide range of independent films and thrillers, and Thoroughbreds fits perfectly within its catalog of high-quality cinema. If you’re already a subscriber, it’s easy to access the movie without any additional costs.
Hulu Subscription Plans:
- $7.99/month with ads
- $14.99/month ad-free
- $69.99/month (Hulu + Live TV)
2. Amazon Prime Video
You can also rent or purchase Thoroughbreds through Amazon Prime Video. The platform offers the film in both HD and SD formats, giving you the flexibility to rent it for a one-time watch or purchase it for your digital collection.
Rental and Purchase Prices on Amazon Prime Video:
- Rental: $3.99 (HD) or $2.99 (SD)
- Purchase: $9.99 (HD)
3. Apple TV (iTunes)
For those in the Apple ecosystem, Apple TV (formerly iTunes) offers Thoroughbreds for rental or purchase. This is a convenient option if you want to enjoy the film across your Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, and Apple TV.
Rental and Purchase Prices on Apple TV:
- Rental: $3.99 (HD) or $2.99 (SD)
- Purchase: $9.99 (HD)
4. Google Play Movies & TV
Android users can rent or buy Thoroughbreds through Google Play Movies & TV. Google Play allows you to stream the movie on multiple devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs, providing flexibility depending on where you want to watch.
Rental and Purchase Prices on Google Play:
- Rental: $3.99 (HD) or $2.99 (SD)
- Purchase: $9.99 (HD)
5. Vudu
Vudu is another platform where you can rent or purchase Thoroughbreds. Vudu is known for offering frequent deals and discounts, so it’s worth checking out if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option.
Rental and Purchase Prices on Vudu:
- Rental: $3.99 (HD) or $2.99 (SD)
- Purchase: $9.99 (HD)
6. YouTube Movies
Finally, YouTube Movies offers Thoroughbreds for rent or purchase. This is a great option if you prefer to watch movies directly through YouTube, without needing to download any extra apps or software.
Rental and Purchase Prices on YouTube:
- Rental: $3.99 (HD) or $2.99 (SD)
- Purchase: $9.99 (HD)
Why You Should Watch Thoroughbreds
Thoroughbreds is not a typical thriller; it’s a film that requires patience and attention to detail. The characters’ slow descent into moral ambiguity, coupled with the film’s sharp script and unnerving performances, makes it a standout in the genre. If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers that challenge your understanding of morality and human emotion, Thoroughbreds is a must-watch.
Furthermore, the film’s unique visual style, minimalistic yet tension-filled atmosphere, and powerful performances make it a great choice for viewers seeking something more thought-provoking than the average Hollywood thriller.
Conclusion: Watch Thoroughbreds Online Today
Thoroughbreds is a chilling exploration of friendship, privilege, and moral detachment. With gripping performances from Olivia Cooke and Anya Taylor-Joy, and a directorial debut that is both stylish and smart, the film stands as a hidden gem within the psychological thriller genre. Whether you’re revisiting the movie or watching it for the first time, Thoroughbreds is available on multiple streaming platforms for rent, purchase, or subscription streaming.
Available Streaming Services for Thoroughbreds (2018):
- Hulu (Subscription)
- Amazon Prime Video (Rent/Buy)
- Apple TV (iTunes) (Rent/Buy)
- Google Play Movies & TV (Rent/Buy)
- Vudu (Rent/Buy)
- YouTube Movies (Rent/Buy)
So, if you’re ready to dive into a world of chilling psychological tension, check out Thoroughbreds on one of the available platforms today.
