The Deliverance (2024) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
“The Deliverance” (2024), directed by Lee Daniels, is a film that ambitiously blends the gritty realism of social issues with the supernatural elements of horror. While it promises an intense exploration of addiction, poverty, and systemic racism, the movie struggles to balance these themes with its horror narrative, leaving audiences with a mixed experience. In this review, we’ll delve into the film’s strengths and weaknesses and guide you on where to watch it online.
A Tale of Two Films: Domestic Drama Meets Supernatural Horror
“The Deliverance” is inspired by the real-life story of Latoya Ammons, whose alleged experiences with demonic possession in Gary, Indiana, made headlines in the early 2010s. This adaptation relocates the story to Pittsburgh, where Ebony Jackson, played by Andra Day, struggles with the challenges of raising three children while battling her own demons—both literal and metaphorical.
The Drama: Addiction, Poverty, and Systemic Racism
The film is at its best when it focuses on the raw and unfiltered portrayal of Ebony’s life. Day delivers a powerful performance as a single mother grappling with alcoholism, trying to stay sober while caring for her ailing mother, played by Glenn Close. The domestic scenes are filled with tension and heartbreak, reflecting the harsh realities of poverty and systemic racism in America. These moments are where Daniels’ directorial strengths shine, as he previously demonstrated in his critically acclaimed films “Precious” and “The Butler.”
However, as the film shifts from drama to horror, it begins to lose its footing. The supernatural elements, while intended to heighten the stakes, feel disconnected from the more grounded social issues that the movie initially explores. The transition from a gritty domestic drama to a full-fledged horror film about demonic possession is jarring and ultimately detracts from the movie’s impact.
The Horror: Demons Lurking in the Shadows
Once “The Deliverance” dives into its horror narrative, it falls into familiar genre tropes. The scares are predictable—children skittering up walls, bodies contorting in unnatural positions, and vile invectives spewing from innocent mouths. These elements, while effective in other horror films, feel out of place here. The film’s attempt to merge social commentary with supernatural horror results in a disjointed experience, where neither aspect is fully realized.
Daniels’ direction during the horror sequences lacks the intensity and originality needed to truly terrify audiences. The visual effects, while competent, don’t bring anything new to the genre. Instead, they often feel like a distraction from the more compelling drama at the film’s core.
Performances: A Talented Cast in a Conflicted Film
Despite the film’s structural issues, the cast delivers commendable performances. Andra Day, who garnered an Oscar nomination for her role in “The United States vs. Billie Holiday,” brings depth and authenticity to the character of Ebony. She captures the turmoil of a mother struggling against overwhelming odds, making her moments of despair and resilience equally compelling.
Glenn Close, as Ebony’s cancer-stricken mother, Alberta, adds another layer of complexity to the family dynamic. Her brash and unapologetic performance contrasts sharply with Ebony’s vulnerability, highlighting the generational trauma that pervades their lives. Mo’Nique, as a stern social worker, brings a world-weariness to her role that suggests deeper societal critiques, though the film never fully explores these themes.
Verdict: A Film with Potential, But Lacking Focus
“The Deliverance” is a film with ambitious ideas, but it struggles to balance its dual identities as a social drama and a horror movie. The film touches on important issues—addiction, poverty, and systemic racism—but these themes are overshadowed by a supernatural plot that feels tacked on rather than integral to the story. The result is a movie that is neither frightening enough to satisfy horror fans nor insightful enough to provoke meaningful reflection on its social themes.
While the performances, particularly from Andra Day and Glenn Close, are strong, they are not enough to elevate the film above its disjointed narrative. “The Deliverance” ultimately fails to deliver on its potential, leaving audiences with a sense of what could have been.
Where to Watch “The Deliverance” Online
For those interested in watching “The Deliverance,” the movie is available on several streaming platforms:
Subscription-Based Streaming Services:
- Netflix – The film is currently available to stream on Netflix, making it accessible to subscribers of the platform. Netflix is often the first choice for those looking to watch new releases, and “The Deliverance” is no exception.
Rental/Purchase Streaming Services:
- Amazon Prime Video – If you prefer to rent or purchase the movie, Amazon Prime Video offers both options. Renting allows you to watch the film within a 48-hour window, while purchasing it gives you permanent access.
- Apple TV – Another option for renting or purchasing “The Deliverance” is Apple TV. The platform often provides high-quality streams and is compatible with a wide range of devices.
- Google Play Movies & TV – Available for both rental and purchase, Google Play Movies & TV is a convenient option, especially for Android users. The movie can be streamed on any device that supports the Google Play app.
Final Thoughts
While “The Deliverance” may not fully succeed in its ambitious blend of drama and horror, it is still a film worth watching for its strong performances and its attempt to tackle complex social issues. For those interested in a movie that challenges traditional genre boundaries, “The Deliverance” is now available on several streaming platforms, ready for you to experience its unique, if flawed, narrative.
