Greedy People (2024) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Greedy People (2024), directed by Potsy Ponciroli, brings a new twist to the dark comedy genre with a story that blends crime and humor in a small-town setting. Known for his work on Old Henry, Ponciroli returns with a film that draws heavy inspiration from the Coen brothers’ style, delivering a narrative filled with quirky characters, dark humor, and moral ambiguity. But does Greedy People live up to its potential, or does it get lost in its own tonal shifts? This review will dive into the film’s strengths and weaknesses, exploring where it fits within the current cinematic landscape and how you can watch it online.
Plot Summary
Greedy People centers around Will Shelley, a rookie cop who moves to the town of Providence, Rhode Island, with his pregnant wife, Paige. Will’s first day on the job takes a dark turn when he accidentally kills a woman during a routine check. Encouraged by his unhinged partner, Terry Brogan, to cover up the crime and take the million dollars they find at the scene, Will’s life spirals into chaos. The film follows the duo as they navigate a series of increasingly absurd and dangerous situations, leading to a conclusion that’s as dark as it is unsatisfying.
The Coen Brothers’ Influence: Homage or Imitation?
From the outset, Greedy People feels like a Coen brothers’ film—complete with a quirky small-town setting, morally dubious characters, and a plot that’s equal parts comedy and tragedy. However, while Old Henry paid homage to its influences, Greedy People often feels like it’s borrowing too much. The film opens and closes with a strong female police chief (Uzo Aduba), reminiscent of Frances McDormand’s iconic role in Fargo. Yet, where Fargo balanced its dark humor with genuine heart, Greedy People often falters, leaving its audience with a sense of missed opportunities.
Tonal Shifts: A Double-Edged Sword
One of the film’s biggest challenges is its inconsistent tone. What begins as a small-town comedy quickly shifts into a dark, almost nihilistic thriller. While this approach could work in theory, Greedy People struggles to maintain the balance. The comedic elements, which include a quirky cast led by Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Himesh Patel, are often overshadowed by the film’s darker moments. The tonal shift is particularly jarring when the narrative takes a tragic turn with the death of Will and Paige’s dog, Bailey—a scene that feels more manipulative than meaningful.
Performances: A Mixed Bag
The cast of Greedy People does its best with the material, though not all performances are equally successful. Joseph Gordon-Levitt stands out as the manic Terry, delivering a performance that’s both entertaining and unsettling. His energy contrasts sharply with Himesh Patel’s more subdued portrayal of Will, a character who often feels too passive for his own story. Lily James, as Paige, gets more to do in the final act, but her character’s arc feels underdeveloped compared to her previous roles. The supporting cast, including Jim Gaffigan as a mild-mannered hitman and José María Yazpik as his rival, adds color to the film but is ultimately underutilized.
The Verdict: Is Greedy People Worth Watching?
Greedy People is a film that will likely appeal most to fans of Joseph Gordon-Levitt, who delivers one of the film’s strongest performances. However, for those looking for a coherent dark comedy or crime thriller, the film’s inconsistent tone and lackluster script may prove disappointing. While it has its moments, particularly in the first half, Greedy People ultimately fails to deliver on the promise of its premise, leaving viewers with a sense of what could have been.
Where to Watch Greedy People Online
If you’re interested in watching Greedy People online, the film is available through several streaming platforms. In the United States, you can stream the movie on:
- Amazon Prime Video – Available for rental or purchase.
- Apple TV – Rent or buy the film through iTunes.
- Google Play Movies & TV – Offers both rental and purchase options.
- Vudu – Stream by renting or purchasing.
- Lionsgate Play – Available for subscribers.
For those with a subscription to Hulu or Netflix, it’s worth checking if the film becomes available as part of their library, as streaming rights often shift over time.
Conclusion
Greedy People is a film that, despite its flaws, may find an audience among those who appreciate dark humor and the talents of its lead actors. However, its uneven tone and derivative nature make it a difficult recommendation for viewers seeking a truly standout cinematic experience. If you’re curious about the film, consider watching it on one of the available streaming services, but manage your expectations accordingly.
