Tulip Fever (2017) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Tulip Fever (2017), directed by Justin Chadwick, is a historical drama based on Deborah Moggach’s novel of the same name. Set in 17th-century Amsterdam, the film explores themes of love, obsession, and social status against the backdrop of the tulip mania craze—a period when tulip bulbs were among the most valuable commodities in Europe. Starring Alicia Vikander, Dane DeHaan, and Christoph Waltz, Tulip Fever offers a lush and dramatic narrative that blends romance and intrigue.
In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, themes, performances, and provide information on where you can stream or purchase Tulip Fever online in the U.S.
Plot Overview: Love and Deception in Amsterdam
Tulip Fever follows the story of Sophia (Alicia Vikander), a young woman married to a wealthy but older merchant, Cornelis Sandvoort (Christoph Waltz). In an effort to secure her place in society, Sophia marries Cornelis, but her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets and falls in love with a young artist, Jan van Loos (Dane DeHaan).
As Jan paints Sophia’s portrait, the two begin a passionate affair, driven by their shared desire to escape their respective circumstances. Their romance becomes entangled with the high-stakes world of tulip trading, where the couple seeks to use the value of tulip bulbs to secure a better future. As the plot unfolds, themes of betrayal, ambition, and societal constraints come to the fore, culminating in a series of dramatic and unexpected twists.
Performances: A Talented Ensemble
The film features strong performances from its cast:
- Alicia Vikander stars as Sophia, delivering a performance that captures both the character’s vulnerability and strength. Vikander’s portrayal adds emotional depth to Sophia’s struggles and desires.
- Dane DeHaan plays Jan van Loos, the artist who becomes entangled in a passionate affair with Sophia. DeHaan’s performance brings intensity and complexity to the role, highlighting the character’s artistic ambition and personal conflicts.
- Christoph Waltz appears as Cornelis Sandvoort, Sophia’s wealthy but controlling husband. Waltz’s performance adds gravitas and tension to the film, portraying a man whose wealth and status impact his relationships and actions.
- Holliday Grainger and Jack O’Connell also feature in supporting roles, contributing to the film’s dynamic and engaging narrative.
Themes: Love, Ambition, and Social Status
Tulip Fever explores several key themes:
- Love and Obsession: The film delves into the complexities of romantic relationships, examining how love and obsession can drive individuals to make drastic decisions. The passionate affair between Sophia and Jan highlights the transformative power of love, as well as the consequences of pursuing it.
- Ambition and Wealth: Set against the backdrop of tulip mania, the film explores themes of ambition and the quest for wealth. The characters’ interactions with the tulip market underscore the lengths to which individuals will go to secure financial stability and social standing.
- Social Constraints: The film examines the societal expectations and constraints of the 17th century, focusing on how social status and gender roles impact the characters’ choices and relationships.
Direction and Visuals: A Lush Historical Drama
Justin Chadwick’s direction ensures that Tulip Fever is visually stunning and immersive. Known for his work on The Other Boleyn Girl and Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, Chadwick’s direction captures the opulence and atmosphere of 17th-century Amsterdam.
The film’s cinematography, by Eigil Bryld, features rich and vibrant visuals that bring the historical setting to life. The use of period-appropriate costumes and set design adds authenticity and depth to the film’s portrayal of the tulip mania era.
Where to Watch Tulip Fever Online
If you’re interested in watching Tulip Fever, here are some options for streaming, renting, or purchasing the film online in the U.S.:
1. Streaming Services:
- Amazon Prime Video (with subscription): Tulip Fever may be available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video with a subscription. Check the platform for current availability.
- Hulu (with subscription): The film might also be available on Hulu. Verify the current catalog for availability.
2. Rental Services:
For those who prefer to rent the film, several platforms offer it for a one-time rental fee:
- Amazon Prime Video: Rent Tulip Fever for $3.99 in HD, with 48 hours to watch after you start streaming.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Available for rental at $3.99, allowing you to stream the film on various devices.
- Apple TV: Rent the movie for $3.99 in HD, with the option to watch on all Apple devices.
- Vudu: Offers the film for rent at $3.99, compatible with most streaming devices and smart TVs.
3. Purchase Options:
For those who want to own a copy of the film, it is available for purchase on various platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Purchase Tulip Fever for $14.99 in HD, available in your digital library.
- Apple TV: The film is available for purchase at $14.99, allowing for offline viewing on Apple devices.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Purchase the film for $14.99, with access across multiple devices.
- Vudu: Purchase Tulip Fever for $14.99, available for streaming on various platforms.
Final Thoughts: A Lavish and Dramatic Romance
Tulip Fever offers a lavish and engaging historical romance with its rich visuals, strong performances, and intricate plot. With Alicia Vikander and Dane DeHaan leading a talented cast, the film provides an immersive experience set against the backdrop of tulip mania.
Whether you’re streaming on Amazon Prime Video or renting on Google Play, Tulip Fever delivers a compelling narrative that explores themes of love, ambition, and societal constraints in a beautifully crafted historical setting.
From streaming on Amazon Prime Video to renting on Google Play, Tulip Fever offers a captivating blend of romance and historical drama. Its strong performances and stunning visuals make it a standout film for fans of period pieces and romantic tales.
