Lonely Planet (2024) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
In 2024, the romantic drama Lonely Planet arrived on Netflix, captivating audiences with its thoughtful exploration of age-gap romance and personal transformation. Directed by Susannah Grant and starring Laura Dern and Liam Hemsworth, this film takes viewers on a journey through the picturesque setting of a writer’s retreat in Morocco, as two seemingly lost souls find connection amidst their personal struggles.
For those looking to watch Lonely Planet online, this guide provides insights on where to stream or purchase the movie in the United States, along with a detailed review of the film itself.
Plot Summary
Lonely Planet revolves around Katherine (Laura Dern), a successful novelist in her 40s who embarks on a writer’s retreat in Morocco following a difficult breakup and a bout of writer’s block. Katherine, grappling with her emotions and struggling to complete her next book, finds herself in an unfamiliar place—both geographically and emotionally.
At the retreat, Katherine meets Owen (Liam Hemsworth), a much younger man in his 30s, who is the boyfriend of another writer attending the retreat. Owen, successful in his career as a private equity manager, is also at a crossroads in his life. Despite his outward appearance of having everything together, his relationship with his girlfriend Lily (Diana Silvers) is faltering. As Katherine and Owen bond over their personal struggles, a deep connection forms between them, setting the stage for a romance that challenges societal expectations.
Unlike many films in this genre, Lonely Planet delves deeper into the complexities of relationships and personal growth, focusing more on the internal journeys of its characters than on the age difference between the romantic leads.
Film Review
Compelling Character Dynamics
The chemistry between Laura Dern and Liam Hemsworth is the backbone of Lonely Planet. Dern shines as Katherine, portraying a woman who is at once vulnerable and fiercely independent. Katherine is not your typical romance heroine—she’s a middle-aged woman dealing with rejection, loneliness, and creative stagnation. However, it’s her personal struggles that make her character relatable and engaging.
Hemsworth’s portrayal of Owen, on the other hand, offers a nuanced performance that complements Dern’s. Owen is not just the stereotypical younger love interest; he is a man questioning his own life choices, making him a complex and compelling character. The development of their relationship feels organic, as they slowly open up to one another, sharing their fears, frustrations, and hopes.
Cinematic and Cultural Exploration
Set against the backdrop of Morocco, Lonely Planet offers viewers a visual feast. The vibrant streets of Marrakesh, the serene desert landscapes, and the intimate settings of the retreat itself all contribute to the film’s atmosphere. This is not merely a romance set in an exotic location—Morocco becomes a character in its own right, reflecting the internal transformations of both Katherine and Owen. The film avoids romanticizing the location in a stereotypical way, offering instead a more grounded portrayal of the culture and environment.
One of the film’s more subtle strengths is how it portrays the contrast between Katherine’s solitary focus on work and Owen’s attempts to navigate his crumbling relationship with Lily. The tension between work, love, and personal fulfillment is a theme that resonates throughout the movie, and it’s explored in a way that feels both authentic and relatable.
A Thoughtful Look at Age-Gap Romance
In recent years, Hollywood has increasingly explored the theme of age-gap romance, with films like The Idea of You and Babygirl gaining popularity. Lonely Planet stands out in this genre because it does not sensationalize the age difference between Katherine and Owen. Instead, the film takes a more reflective approach, focusing on the life circumstances that bring these two characters together.
The age-gap romance is treated with sensitivity, showing that it’s not the age difference that is the central issue, but rather the emotional and personal baggage that both characters carry. Their relationship feels genuine, built on mutual understanding and shared experiences rather than superficial attraction.
Criticisms
Despite its strengths, Lonely Planet is not without its flaws. The film’s pacing can feel slow at times, especially in the first half. Some of the supporting characters, such as Lily and other writers at the retreat, are underdeveloped, leaving their roles feeling somewhat peripheral to the main story. Additionally, the film’s conclusion feels rushed, as if it’s trying to tie up loose ends too quickly after a more measured buildup.
That said, these shortcomings do not detract significantly from the overall impact of the film. Lonely Planet remains a compelling and thought-provoking exploration of love, personal growth, and the unpredictability of life.
Where to Watch Lonely Planet Online
For those eager to watch Lonely Planet online, there are several streaming and rental options available in the United States.
Streaming Services
- Netflix: Lonely Planet is available for streaming on Netflix, where it is currently part of their catalog of original films.
Rental/Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video: Rent or purchase the movie in HD or 4K quality.
- Google Play: The film can be rented or purchased through Google Play Movies.
These options make it easy to enjoy Lonely Planet from the comfort of your own home, whether you prefer to stream it through a subscription service or rent it for a one-time viewing.
Conclusion
Lonely Planet is a film that offers more than just a steamy romance between an older woman and a younger man. It’s a thoughtful meditation on life’s unpredictable twists and turns, and how unexpected connections can lead to profound personal growth. With standout performances from Laura Dern and Liam Hemsworth, along with stunning cinematography set in Morocco, Lonely Planet is a must-watch for fans of romantic dramas. While it may not be perfect, its emotional depth and strong character dynamics make it a memorable addition to the genre.
