Tommy (1975) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Directed by Ken Russell, Tommy (1975) is a rock musical film adaptation of The Who’s 1969 concept album of the same name. Starring Roger Daltrey, Ann-Margret, and Oliver Reed, the film combines music, surrealism, and drama to tell the story of a young boy who becomes a “pinball wizard” after a series of traumatic experiences. Known for its bold visual style and eclectic soundtrack, Tommy is a distinctive entry in the genre of rock musicals.
In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, performances, and thematic elements, and provide information on where to stream or rent Tommy online in the U.S.
Plot Overview
Tommy follows the life of a young boy named Tommy Walker (Roger Daltrey), who witnesses the traumatic events of his father’s (Oliver Reed) death in World War II and his mother’s (Ann-Margret) subsequent struggle to cope. As a result, Tommy becomes mute, deaf, and blind. Despite his condition, he becomes a prodigious pinball player, achieving fame as a “pinball wizard.”
The film delves into Tommy’s experiences as he grows up and the impact of his condition on his family and those around him. His extraordinary skill at pinball leads to various encounters with people who try to exploit or help him, culminating in a dramatic and transformative journey that challenges his perceptions and relationships.
Performances
Roger Daltrey stars as Tommy Walker, bringing his rock star charisma and powerful vocals to the role. Daltrey’s performance captures the emotional and physical aspects of Tommy’s character, conveying both the trauma and the triumphs of his journey.
Ann-Margret plays Tommy’s mother, Nora Walker, delivering a standout performance with her dramatic and musical abilities. Ann-Margret’s role combines emotional depth with exuberant musical numbers, showcasing her versatility as an actress and singer.
Oliver Reed portrays Tommy’s father, Captain Walker, and contributes a strong and intense performance. Reed’s presence adds a layer of gravitas to the film, particularly in the context of Tommy’s backstory and the impact of his absence.
The film also features notable performances by Tina Turner as the Acid Queen and Jack Nicholson in a cameo role. Their contributions add to the film’s eclectic and vibrant style, enhancing its overall appeal.
Themes and Atmosphere
Tommy explores themes of trauma, redemption, and self-discovery. The film’s narrative delves into the psychological and emotional effects of trauma on an individual and the ways in which people seek solace and meaning in their lives.
The atmosphere of the film is characterized by its surreal and visually striking style. Ken Russell’s direction embraces a mix of psychedelic imagery, dramatic set pieces, and musical performances, creating a distinctive and immersive experience.
The film’s musical numbers, based on The Who’s rock opera, contribute to its overall tone and thematic depth, combining powerful rock music with narrative-driven storytelling.
Cinematic Style and Appeal
Ken Russell’s direction is bold and unconventional, utilizing a blend of surreal visuals, elaborate musical numbers, and dramatic storytelling. The film’s visual style is marked by its use of vivid colors, elaborate sets, and inventive camera work, contributing to its unique and memorable presentation.
The screenplay, adapted from The Who’s rock opera, combines lyrical storytelling with dramatic elements, creating a narrative that is both engaging and visually striking.
Where to Watch Tommy (1975) Online
For those interested in watching Tommy, here’s where you can find the film available for streaming or rental in the U.S.:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video – Tommy is available to stream with an additional subscription to the service.
- Hulu – The film may be available on Hulu’s library, depending on licensing agreements.
Rental and Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video – Rent the film for $3.99 or purchase it for $12.99.
- Apple iTunes – Available for rental at $3.99 or purchase at $12.99.
- Google Play Movies – Rent the film for $3.99 or purchase for $12.99.
- Vudu – The film is available for rent at $3.99 or purchase for $12.99.
Why Tommy is Worth Watching
Tommy (1975) is a visually and musically innovative film that offers a unique take on the rock musical genre. With strong performances from Roger Daltrey, Ann-Margret, and Oliver Reed, combined with Ken Russell’s distinctive direction, the film provides an engaging and memorable cinematic experience.
For viewers who appreciate rock music, surrealism, and bold filmmaking, Tommy delivers a powerful and immersive story that stands out in the genre of musical films. The film’s combination of compelling performances and striking visuals makes it a noteworthy and influential work in the world of rock musicals.
Conclusion
Tommy (1975) is a distinctive rock musical that blends music, surrealism, and drama to create a memorable and engaging film experience. With its innovative visuals, powerful performances, and evocative soundtrack, the film remains a classic in the genre.
For U.S. viewers, Tommy is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video and potentially Hulu, with rental and purchase options available on platforms like Amazon, iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu. Whether you’re a fan of rock musicals or simply interested in exploring a unique cinematic experience, Tommy is a film worth watching.
