Outlaw (2024) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Outlaw (2024), also known as Bandida: A Número Um in its original Portuguese title, is a gripping Brazilian action thriller that takes viewers deep into the violent underworld of Rio de Janeiro’s favelas. Directed by João Wainer, the movie weaves together a blend of true-crime storytelling, action-packed sequences, and a strong emotional narrative surrounding a young woman’s journey from exploitation to power. As one of Netflix’s latest releases, Outlaw brings a fresh perspective on the crime genre with a strong female lead, intense drama, and a backdrop of gang violence.
In this review, we’ll delve into the film’s story, cast performances, and overall direction, while also providing details on where to watch Outlaw online.
Plot Summary
Set between the 1970s and the early 1990s, Outlaw follows the life of Rebeca (played by Jurema Bomani), a young woman born into the harsh reality of the favelas in Rio de Janeiro. From a young age, Rebeca experiences betrayal when her own grandmother sells her to a local gang leader named Amoroso to settle a gambling debt. Amoroso, a notorious figure in the criminal world, uses his influence and fear to control the favelas, especially through drug trafficking and extortion.
However, Rebeca’s journey is not one of submission. From the moment she escapes Amoroso’s clutches with the help of a Yoruba priestess who prophesizes her connection to the goddess Oxum Apara, Rebeca begins to assert her independence. Over the years, she learns the ins and outs of Amoroso’s operations, eventually becoming a key player in his empire. Yet, her desire for freedom and revenge ultimately drives her to challenge the very system that tried to oppress her.
As the movie progresses, Rebeca navigates a world filled with betrayal, power struggles, and violence. Her love interest, Para, and their intertwined fates shape much of the latter part of the story, culminating in a final showdown between rival drug cartels and corrupt law enforcement.
Cast and Performances
Jurema Bomani delivers a standout performance as Rebeca, capturing the character’s transformation from a vulnerable girl to a powerful figure in the Brazilian underworld. Bomani’s portrayal of Rebeca’s strength and vulnerability adds depth to the character, making her both relatable and awe-inspiring.
Supporting cast members, including Marcos Veras as the ruthless Amoroso and Gabriel Leone as Para, provide strong performances, elevating the tension and emotional stakes throughout the film. The chemistry between the characters helps to ground the movie, particularly in the moments where the plot takes darker, more brutal turns.
Themes and Direction
Outlaw explores themes of survival, power, and redemption, with a focus on the socio-economic disparities in Brazil’s favelas. The film’s raw depiction of gang violence and corruption is underscored by a cultural and spiritual layer, with Rebeca’s connection to Afro-Brazilian deities playing a central role in her journey.
Director João Wainer masterfully blends elements of documentary-style realism with dramatic storytelling, using alternating aspect ratios to convey the gritty reality of Rebeca’s world. While some viewers might find the sudden shifts in visual style jarring, this technique adds to the film’s intense atmosphere, reflecting the chaotic and unpredictable nature of life in the favelas.
Where to Watch Outlaw Online
As of September 11, 2024, Outlaw is available for streaming on Netflix in the United States and several other regions worldwide. Netflix is the film’s primary distributor, so subscribers can easily access the movie on this platform. In addition to Netflix, here are other streaming services where you can watch Outlaw:
Streaming Platforms:
- Netflix – Available for streaming with a subscription.
- Amazon Prime Video (Rental/Purchase) – Available for rent or purchase for users who prefer not to subscribe to Netflix.
- Apple TV (Rental/Purchase) – Available for rent or purchase on Apple’s platform.
For those interested in streaming on-the-go, all these platforms offer mobile apps that allow you to watch Outlaw on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs.
Verdict on Outlaw (2024)
Outlaw is a well-crafted, fast-paced action thriller that combines real-life drama with elements of crime and spirituality. While the narrative can sometimes feel disjointed due to its shifts in visual and storytelling styles, the movie’s central focus on Rebeca’s evolution keeps it engaging.
The movie is a solid addition to Netflix’s growing library of international thrillers, providing audiences with a unique perspective on life in the favelas. Rebeca’s character arc—from a powerless young girl to a force to be reckoned with—offers a refreshing take on the genre, particularly for those who enjoy strong, female-led stories.
Pros:
- Strong performances, particularly by Jurema Bomani.
- Intense action sequences paired with emotional depth.
- A fresh perspective on the crime genre with a focus on spiritual elements.
Cons:
- Abrupt shifts in visual style may be off-putting to some viewers.
- Certain plot points and character motivations could have been more fleshed out.
