Emmanuelle (2024) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Audrey Diwan’s 2024 version of Emmanuelle attempts to update a cultural touchstone from the 1970s, known for its provocative and erotic content, with a fresh feminist perspective. The original 1974 film, directed by Just Jaeckin and starring Sylvia Kristel, became a defining piece of softcore cinema, sparking discussions about female sexuality. In this latest remake, Diwan places more emphasis on female agency, but struggles to ignite the same cultural fire as its predecessor.
Plot Summary
The film opens with Emmanuelle (Noémie Merlant) on a flight, much like the original, engaging in an anonymous mile-high encounter with a fellow passenger. But unlike the original, where Sylvia Kristel’s Emmanuelle was eager to explore her sexual freedom, this modern take casts her as a hotel inspector, disconnected from pleasure and purpose. As she checks into a luxury hotel in Hong Kong, Emmanuelle begins an internal journey, seeking pleasure, connection, and a reawakening of her desires.
While the original Emmanuelle was about submission and the exploration of male-driven desire, Diwan’s version flips the narrative. This Emmanuelle is not only in charge of her own destiny but is also less interested in pleasing others and more focused on reclaiming her own sense of pleasure—however elusive that may be.
Where the Film Falls Short
Despite the intriguing concept, Diwan’s Emmanuelle feels cold and detached. What could have been a rich exploration of modern female sexuality instead becomes a series of empty, well-framed shots of luxury interiors and minimal emotional payoff. The film lacks the raw passion or even the sense of fun that made the 1974 version iconic, making this update feel like a hollow retread.
There’s also a notable absence of the eroticism that made Emmanuelle a cultural phenomenon. Scenes that should feel intimate and sensuous are instead clinical and devoid of energy. Even the visuals, though polished, come across as an architectural tour of a luxury hotel rather than a backdrop for an emotional or physical journey.
Performances and Themes
Noémie Merlant’s performance as Emmanuelle is one of restraint. Her portrayal of the character’s emotional disconnect might serve the story’s aim, but it ultimately leaves the audience distanced from her personal journey. The supporting cast, including Naomi Watts as hotel manager Margot and Will Sharpe as Kei, offer compelling performances, but they, too, are hampered by a script that keeps its characters at arm’s length from any real emotional depth.
The film touches on interesting themes, particularly the idea of female agency in sexual relationships and professional spaces. However, these themes are never fully explored. Emmanuelle’s sexual encounters feel more like isolated vignettes than part of a cohesive narrative. The film’s pacing is slow, and its fragmented structure makes it difficult for the audience to become invested in the character’s journey.
Comparison to the Original
The original Emmanuelle was controversial for its time, bringing sexual liberation into mainstream cinemas and sparking debates about the sexual revolution. It thrived on its exoticism, setting its story in Thailand and depicting sexual exploration with an unapologetic boldness. Diwan’s remake is far more reserved, both in terms of location and subject matter. Hong Kong, while offering a sleek and modern aesthetic, lacks the sensual allure of the original’s setting.
The decision to downplay the erotic elements of the story may be seen as a reflection of modern sensibilities, where gratuitous nudity and sex no longer have the shock value they once did. However, in doing so, the film sacrifices the raw energy that made Emmanuelle such a landmark film in its day.
Streaming Availability in the U.S.
As of October 2024, Emmanuelle (2024) is available for viewing through various streaming platforms.
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rental and purchase. Prices may vary depending on the format, with options for HD and 4K.
- Apple TV: Available for both rental and purchase in HD.
- Vudu: Offers rental and purchase options, with frequent promotional discounts.
- Google Play Movies: Available for rental and purchase in different formats.
- Hulu: There are rumors that Emmanuelle (2024) might be added to Hulu’s lineup in the coming months, but this has yet to be confirmed.
For those interested in physical media, Blu-ray and DVD versions will also be released later in 2024. Some platforms, like Amazon and Best Buy, are expected to carry these formats as well.
Conclusion
Audrey Diwan’s Emmanuelle (2024) had the potential to revitalize a cult classic with a feminist lens, but it ultimately falls short. The film’s muted eroticism, combined with a lack of emotional depth, leaves it feeling sterile and distant. Though it features strong performances from its cast, including a reserved but confident turn by Noémie Merlant, the film never quite finds its footing.
That said, the film may appeal to viewers looking for a visually polished, introspective piece about female agency, even if it doesn’t deliver the erotic thrills associated with the original. Whether this new Emmanuelle becomes a “so bad it’s good” cult classic like Showgirls, or fades into obscurity, remains to be seen.
