Lights Out (2024) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Lights Out (2024), directed by Christian Sesma, brings a fresh take on the gritty action-thriller genre. Packed with intense fight sequences and a stellar cast, this film presents an intriguing mix of drama and action, though it doesn’t quite break new ground. Frank Grillo, Mekhi Phifer, Jaime King, and Scott Adkins lead the cast, making the movie a must-watch for fans of raw, no-holds-barred action flicks. This article delves into the plot, the performances, and the streaming options for those eager to watch Lights Out online.
Plot Summary
Lights Out introduces us to Michael “Duffy” Duffield (Frank Grillo), a drifter and ex-soldier suffering from PTSD, living off the grid and battling his inner demons. The movie opens with Duffy getting off a bus and immediately finding himself in trouble after being accused of cheating in a card game. His fighting prowess catches the eye of Max Bomer (Mekhi Phifer), an ex-con recently released from prison, who sees Duffy’s skills as a ticket to underground fight clubs.
Max convinces Duffy to enter these brutal, illegal fights, primarily run by Fosco (Amaury Nolasco), and things quickly spiral out of control. Max owes a large sum to Sage (Dermot Mulroney), a shady crime boss. Adding more fuel to the fire, Sage is in league with corrupt cops, including Detective Ridgway (Jaime King) and her partner, Detective Kincaid (Paul Sloan).
As the stakes rise, Duffy must navigate a world of betrayal, underground brawls, and simmering personal vendettas. Along the way, he meets Max’s sister, Rachel (Erica Peeples), and the sparks between them offer a rare moment of emotional depth in an otherwise action-packed narrative. However, Duffy’s personal struggles with PTSD, his troubled past in the military, and the looming threat of Sage’s wrath provide the central tension in Lights Out.
Performances
Frank Grillo as Michael “Duffy” Duffield
Frank Grillo excels in his portrayal of Duffy, combining his natural physicality with a brooding intensity. He brings authenticity to the role of a war-weary soldier who finds solace in the violence of underground fighting. Grillo’s performance anchors the film, as he embodies a man who channels his anger and trauma into survival.
Mekhi Phifer as Max Bomer
Mekhi Phifer delivers a solid performance as the smooth-talking ex-con Max. He brings a mix of charm and desperation to his role, making him the perfect foil for Duffy’s stoic nature. Phifer’s portrayal adds a layer of humanity to the otherwise rough-and-tumble world of illegal fight clubs.
Supporting Cast: Dermot Mulroney and Jaime King
Dermot Mulroney shines as Sage, the villainous crime boss with his hands in multiple dirty deals. His portrayal adds gravitas to the film, though his character follows the typical “crime lord” trope. Jaime King as Detective Ridgway adds intrigue, though her role as a corrupt cop feels somewhat underdeveloped.
Scott Adkins as Jones
Scott Adkins, known for his martial arts prowess, plays a relatively minor role in the film. Though his presence is limited, his scenes add excitement, especially in a final showdown involving a corrupt SWAT team. However, fans might be left wanting more from this action veteran.
Fight Sequences and Direction
The fight scenes, choreographed by Luke LaFontaine, stand out as the film’s strongest point. Grillo and Adkins, both seasoned action stars, execute brutal, high-stakes brawls with precision. While the storyline may not offer many surprises, the visceral action more than compensates.
Director Christian Sesma keeps the pace fast and the tension high. The flashback sequences, which delve into Duffy’s military background, add emotional depth but are not explored enough. However, Sesma ensures that the film stays true to its core—intense, gritty action.
Weaknesses
The film falters in its predictable storyline. While the action sequences and performances shine, the plot follows a well-worn path. Themes of betrayal, PTSD, and corruption are introduced but not fully explored. Additionally, the subplot involving corrupt cops feels rushed and underdeveloped, missing an opportunity to add complexity to the narrative.
Where to Watch Lights Out Online
For those eager to watch Lights Out online, several streaming platforms offer options for viewing. Whether you’re looking to stream, rent, or purchase the film, here’s a rundown of where to catch this action-packed thriller.
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rent or purchase, Lights Out can be streamed in HD on Amazon Prime Video.
- Apple TV: The movie is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV, providing access to HD quality and extras.
- Google Play Movies: Another platform offering rental or purchase options, allowing viewers to stream in high definition.
- Vudu: Vudu also offers Lights Out for both rental and purchase, with various pricing tiers for standard definition (SD) or high definition (HD).
- Hulu: Lights Out Available for subscription package.
- Netflix: As of now, Lights Out is not available on Netflix in the United States. However, given Netflix’s rotation of movie licenses, it may appear later.
Rental and Purchase Options
- YouTube Movies: Lights Out can be rented or purchased on YouTube Movies, with instant access for online viewing.
- FandangoNOW: For viewers in the U.S., FandangoNOW offers rental and purchase options.
If you prefer renting movies instead of purchasing, most services provide 48-hour viewing windows after renting the film. Purchasing allows for unlimited streaming of the movie through your chosen platform.
Conclusion
Lights Out (2024) is a solid, action-packed thriller for fans of Frank Grillo and gritty fight films. While the plot may be predictable, the film’s high-stakes action sequences and strong cast make it an entertaining watch. With streaming options available across major platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Vudu, you can easily enjoy this action-packed ride from the comfort of your home.
