Crescent City (2024) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Introduction
“Crescent City,” released in August 2024, is a crime thriller that blends elements of mystery, horror, and drama into a rather convoluted narrative. Despite its title suggesting a New Orleans backdrop, the film is set in Little Rock, Arkansas, much to the chagrin of those hoping for the vibrant culture of the Louisiana city. Directed by RJ Collins and penned by Rich Ronat, the film brings together a cast of notable actors including Terrence Howard, Esai Morales, and Alec Baldwin. Although “Crescent City” has its moments, it ultimately struggles to rise above the many clichés and overused tropes that plague the genre.
Plot Summary
The film follows veteran cops Brian Sutter (Terrence Howard) and Luke Carson (Esai Morales) as they navigate a series of grisly murders in Little Rock. Carson, a loose cannon with a penchant for bending the rules, and Sutter, a troubled family man haunted by a failed drug bust, are forced to confront their demons as they delve deeper into the case. The duo is joined by Jaclyn Waters (Nicky Whelan), a recent transfer from Tulsa, whose presence adds a layer of tension and suspicion among the team.
As the investigation unfolds, the film throws numerous twists and red herrings at the audience, creating a complex web of deceit, murder, and corruption. The story touches on themes of Satanic cults, internal affairs investigations, and brutal crime scenes that often feel gratuitous rather than necessary for the narrative. Despite the seasoned cast’s efforts, the film struggles to maintain coherence and ultimately leaves viewers questioning the logic behind many of its plot points.
Performance and Direction
Terrence Howard and Esai Morales deliver solid performances, attempting to inject life into their otherwise flat characters. Howard, known for his emotionally charged roles, tries to bring depth to Sutter, a man torn between his duty and his traumatic past. Morales, on the other hand, leans into the aggressive and morally ambiguous nature of Carson, though his character’s misogynistic tendencies can be off-putting.
Alec Baldwin’s portrayal of Captain Howell, the hot-headed superior, provides some of the film’s most entertaining moments. Baldwin’s sharp-tongued reprimands and dark humor echo his earlier roles in films like “The Departed” and “Glengarry Glen Ross,” offering a brief respite from the otherwise lackluster narrative.
Director RJ Collins attempts to create a gritty, noir-like atmosphere, but the film’s pacing and excessive subplots detract from the overall experience. The dark and moody cinematography by Alex Salahi adds to the film’s tension, though it sometimes feels more style over substance. The screenplay by Rich Ronat suffers from inconsistency, with certain scenes feeling disjointed and unnecessarily complex.
Where to Watch “Crescent City” Online
For those interested in experiencing “Crescent City” for themselves, the film is available through various streaming platforms in the United States. Whether you’re looking to rent, purchase, or stream the movie as part of your subscription, here are the current options:
- YouTube: The film is available for rent or purchase on YouTube, allowing viewers to watch it in HD or SD. This platform is accessible across multiple devices, making it a convenient option for those who prefer a straightforward viewing experience.
- Apple TV: “Crescent City” can also be rented or purchased via Apple TV. The platform offers high-quality streaming, and Apple users will appreciate the seamless integration with other Apple devices.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Similar to YouTube, Google Play offers the movie for rent or purchase. This is a great option for Android users or those who have Google devices and prefer a user-friendly interface.
- Amazon Prime Video: For Amazon Prime members, the movie is available for rental or purchase. While it’s not included in the standard Prime subscription, renting or buying through Amazon ensures a reliable streaming experience.
- Vudu: Vudu offers both rental and purchase options for “Crescent City.” Known for its high-definition streaming and no subscription requirement, it’s a solid choice for those who want flexibility without a monthly fee.
- FandangoNOW: Another rental and purchase option, FandangoNOW provides a straightforward viewing experience without the need for a subscription. It’s accessible on various devices, including smart TVs and streaming players.
Conclusion
“Crescent City” is a film that may appeal to fans of gritty cop dramas, but its convoluted plot and underdeveloped characters may leave others unimpressed. The performances by Howard, Morales, and Baldwin are commendable, yet they struggle to salvage a story weighed down by its own ambitions. If you’re a fan of crime thrillers and can overlook its flaws, “Crescent City” might be worth a watch, especially if you can stream it from the comfort of your home.
For viewers in the U.S., there are multiple options to watch “Crescent City” online, whether you choose to rent, buy, or stream. Despite its shortcomings, the film offers an interesting, if not entirely satisfying, entry into the world of modern crime thrillers.
