Misericordia (2024) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Alain Guiraudie, the mastermind behind “Stranger by the Lake” (2013) and “Nobody’s Hero” (2022), returns with another thought-provoking and genre-blending film, “Misericordia” (2024). This latest work immerses audiences in a small-town neo-noir setting, where existential dilemmas, human desire, and dark humor collide. Wrapped in atmospheric cinematography and a surreal narrative, the film explores the tensions between morality, attraction, and personal redemption.
But where can you watch Misericordia online? While the movie is currently unavailable for streaming, we’ll explore when and where you can expect it to be released on digital platforms.
Plot Summary
Returning to his quiet hometown of Saint-Martial, Jérémie (played by Félix Kysyl) attends the funeral of his former mentor, a well-respected baker. His plan to stay briefly with the widow Martine (Catherine Frot) soon spirals into something far more complex. A mysterious disappearance, an ominous neighbor, and a priest with dubious intentions throw Jérémie into a web of uncertainty.
Guiraudie’s storytelling embraces absurdity, suspense, and dark humor as the film oscillates between crime drama, psychological thriller, and erotic farce. The film crafts an intriguing puzzle where every character harbors secrets, and Jérémie’s past entangles him in unexpected ways.
Critical Analysis
Direction & Screenplay
Guiraudie, known for his unique ability to blend eroticism, existential dread, and deadpan humor, delivers a film that feels both unpredictable and deliberate. Misericordia balances moments of introspective dialogue with sudden bursts of tension, leaving audiences both unsettled and entertained.
The screenplay is sharp yet mysterious, allowing conversations to build intrigue rather than offering clear-cut answers. The film questions human nature, attraction, and moral relativism, all while keeping a touch of dark comedy.
Cinematography & Visual Aesthetics
With cinematographer Claire Mathon (Portrait of a Lady on Fire, Saint Omer) at the helm, the film’s visuals are stunning yet subtly eerie. The small-town French setting is presented in lush autumnal tones, with carefully composed shots that heighten the film’s sense of foreboding beauty.
Notable scenes, such as the cliffside conversation on morality, showcase Mathon’s skill in using natural lighting and tight framing to enhance dramatic tension. The cinematography captures both the charm and the unsettling undercurrents of Saint-Martial.
Performances
- Félix Kysyl delivers an enigmatic and layered performance as Jérémie, whose motivations remain elusive throughout the film. His interactions with the town’s residents oscillate between vulnerability, defiance, and ironic detachment.
- Catherine Frot, as Martine, embodies a mix of grief and restrained desire, adding emotional depth to her role.
- Jacques Develay, portraying the town priest Pierre, is one of the most fascinating characters. His presence lingers with a mix of mystique, authority, and latent tension, making for some of the film’s most awkwardly compelling moments.
Themes & Symbolism
Guiraudie’s films often challenge conventional norms, and Misericordia is no different. The film raises thought-provoking questions about:
✅ Moral ambiguity – What happens when one’s past mistakes define them?
✅ Sexuality & desire – Can attraction exist without deeper understanding?
✅ Religious and existential dilemmas – How do faith and sin coexist?
✅ The psychology of small-town life – Is the town’s acceptance of Jérémie genuine, or do they have their own motives?
The film flirts with the “evil bisexual” trope, turning it into a playful yet unsettling exploration of human instincts and hidden desires.
Where to Watch Misericordia Online?
As of March 2025, Misericordia is not yet available for streaming or digital purchase. However, based on previous releases of Guiraudie’s films, it is likely to become available on major platforms soon.
Expected Streaming & Rental Platforms
Here’s where you should keep an eye out for Misericordia in the coming months:
| Streaming Service | Availability |
|---|---|
| JustWatch (Check Here) | Updates on availability |
| MUBI | Likely candidate for arthouse films |
| Criterion Channel | Potential release based on director’s previous works |
| Amazon Prime Video | Possible rental/purchase option |
| Apple TV | Likely for digital purchase |
| Vudu & Google Play | Common platforms for indie films |
| Hulu (with IFC Films) | Possible inclusion if acquired by IFC |
🚀 Prediction: Based on past indie film release patterns, Misericordia may hit MUBI or Criterion Channel first, followed by VOD options on Amazon and Apple TV within 3-6 months after its theatrical run.
Final Verdict – Should You Watch It?
✅ Recommended for fans of: Psychological thrillers, existential drama, dark humor, and indie European cinema.
✅ Avoid if you dislike: Ambiguous narratives, slow-burn storytelling, or open-ended conclusions.
Misericordia is a bold, unpredictable, and darkly humorous neo-noir film that defies genre expectations. Guiraudie’s direction, coupled with strong performances and stunning cinematography, makes this a must-watch for cinephiles.
Stay Updated on Streaming Availability
📢 For real-time updates on where to stream Misericordia, check JustWatch:
👉 Click here to see availability
🎬 Want to learn more about the film? Visit the official website:
👉 Click here to visit
📢 Have you watched Misericordia? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
