Vengeance (2022)

Vengeance (2022) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online

Vengeance (2022), directed by and starring B.J. Novak, is a dark comedy-thriller that blends murder mystery with sharp social commentary. Novak, best known for his role as Ryan Howard on The Office, makes his feature directorial debut with Vengeance, a clever film that delves into culture clashes, obsession with true crime, and the power of storytelling in the digital age. The film’s exploration of modern American dynamics, particularly between urban and rural communities, makes it both entertaining and thought-provoking. In this review, we’ll break down the film’s strengths and weaknesses, and show you where to watch Vengeance online in the United States.

Plot Summary: An Unlikely Mystery

Vengeance follows Ben Manalowitz (B.J. Novak), a jaded New York City writer and podcast host who finds himself pulled into a mysterious situation when he receives a phone call informing him that his “girlfriend” Abby Shaw (whom he barely remembers) has died under strange circumstances. Abby’s family, located in West Texas, believes they were in a serious relationship, and they urge Ben to attend her funeral. Caught off guard but intrigued by the situation, Ben travels to Texas, where Abby’s family convinces him that she didn’t die of an overdose as reported but was murdered.

Sensing an opportunity for a gripping true-crime podcast, Ben agrees to investigate Abby’s death, hoping to turn the story into a hit podcast series. What starts as a self-serving project for Ben turns into a deeper exploration of the cultural divide between his New York sensibilities and the tight-knit, often eccentric family in West Texas. As Ben gets closer to the truth, he’s forced to confront his assumptions and the ethical dilemmas of turning someone’s personal tragedy into entertainment.

Why Vengeance (2022) Stands Out

1. A Satirical Take on True Crime
   At its core, Vengeance is a satire of America’s obsession with true crime. In an era where everyone is consumed by podcasts, documentaries, and TikToks dissecting every detail of mysterious deaths, Novak’s film pokes fun at both the genre and the people who consume it. Ben, the ultimate New Yorker, is the embodiment of a detached intellectual who views human tragedy as fodder for entertainment. The film raises important questions: Is it ethical to profit from someone else’s pain? How do we balance the search for truth with the lure of sensationalism?
2. Cultural Commentary
   One of Vengeance’s standout features is its clever commentary on the cultural divide between urban and rural America. Novak’s character, a cynical, fast-talking New Yorker, is the quintessential outsider in West Texas, where life moves slower, and the people have deeply rooted beliefs. The film explores stereotypes on both sides, using humor to highlight the misunderstandings and assumptions that often occur between urban and rural communities. Yet, Vengeance avoids becoming too heavy-handed, balancing its commentary with genuine moments of connection and mutual understanding.
3. B.J. Novak’s Dual Role as Writer and Director
   B.J. Novak proves himself a talented filmmaker in his directorial debut. As both writer and director, he brings a fresh, witty voice to the film, balancing humor, suspense, and drama. His dialogue is sharp and often hilarious, while his direction keeps the film engaging throughout. Novak’s background in comedy is evident in the film’s tone, but he also manages to inject it with moments of tension and introspection, creating a well-rounded film that keeps the audience guessing.
4. A Strong Supporting Cast
   While Novak carries much of the film, Vengeance benefits from a strong supporting cast, particularly Ashton Kutcher, who delivers one of the best performances of his career as Quinten Sellers, a charismatic local record producer who plays a pivotal role in Ben’s investigation. Kutcher’s character is enigmatic and deeply philosophical, providing a counterpoint to Ben’s more cynical outlook. The Shaw family, led by Boyd Holbrook as Ty Shaw, Abby’s protective brother, and J. Smith-Cameron as her grieving mother, offers warmth, humor, and depth to the film’s portrayal of small-town life.
5. A Thoughtful Reflection on Grief and Connection
   Although Vengeance is primarily a dark comedy, it also touches on deeper themes, such as grief, family, and the need for connection. Abby’s family, while quirky and sometimes overbearing, is deeply affected by her loss, and their genuine love for her contrasts sharply with Ben’s initially shallow involvement. As Ben spends more time with the Shaws, he begins to reflect on his own loneliness and detachment, leading to moments of personal growth and realization. The film’s emotional layers add weight to its satirical exterior, giving the audience something more profound to take away.

Where to Watch Vengeance (2022) Online in America

If you’re looking to stream or rent Vengeance, here’s where you can watch it online in the U.S.:

Streaming Services

1. Peacock
   Vengeance is available for streaming on Peacock. If you have a Peacock Premium subscription, you can watch it at no extra cost. Peacock Premium is priced at $5.99 per month with ads or $11.99 per month for the ad-free version.

Rental and Purchase Options

1. Amazon Prime Video
   You can rent or purchase Vengeance on Amazon Prime Video. Rental prices start at $5.99 for HD, while the purchase price is $14.99. Prime members can stream the movie on any compatible device, though non-members can also rent or buy the film without a subscription.
2. Apple iTunes
   Vengeance is available on Apple iTunes for rent at $5.99 in HD, and you can purchase it for $14.99. It can be streamed on any Apple device or through the Apple TV app.
3. Google Play Movies & TV
   On Google Play, Vengeance can be rented for $5.99 or purchased for $14.99. The film is available for streaming on Android devices, Chromecast, and through the Google Play app on smart TVs and other platforms.
4. Vudu
   Vudu offers the film for rent at $5.99 and for purchase at $14.99. Vudu is a popular platform for high-definition streaming, so it’s a good option for those who want the best video quality.
5. YouTube Movies
   You can rent Vengeance on YouTube Movies for $5.99, or buy it for $14.99. This is a convenient option for viewers who prefer to stream movies directly through YouTube.
6. Microsoft Store
   If you prefer streaming on Windows devices or Xbox, you can rent Vengeance through the Microsoft Store for $5.99, or purchase it for $14.99.

Conclusion

Vengeance (2022) is a darkly comedic, smart, and engaging film that balances satire, mystery, and genuine emotional depth. B.J. Novak’s directorial debut is a witty exploration of America’s true crime obsession, the cultural divide between urban and rural communities, and the ethical dilemmas of turning tragedy into entertainment. With a strong cast led by Novak, Ashton Kutcher, and Boyd Holbrook, the film delivers both laughs and suspense while making you think about the stories we tell—and why we tell them.

If you’re a fan of dark comedies, mysteries, or films that explore social dynamics with a sharp sense of humor, Vengeance is worth watching. It’s readily available on streaming services like Peacock and for rent or purchase on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple iTunes, and Google Play. Dive into this clever, introspective thriller and see how Vengeance unfolds.