The Empire (2024) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Bruno Dumont’s The Empire (L’Empire) is an audacious blend of science fiction parody and French cinema’s signature existential inquiry. Set against the backdrop of Northern France’s Opal Coast, the film presents a surreal battle between extraterrestrial knights engaged in a war of good versus evil. The film’s distinct tone, which fuses elements of Star Wars satire with Dumont’s trademark deadpan absurdity, makes for a unique yet divisive cinematic experience.
But is The Empire a hidden gem or an overindulgent experiment? Let’s break it down.
Plot Overview
The film revolves around a quiet fishing village that unexpectedly becomes a battlefield for two alien factions—the Zeros and the Ones. At the center of this cosmic conflict is a peculiar child, Le Margat, who holds the power to tip the scales between good and evil.
Despite this seemingly high-stakes premise, The Empire unfolds in a manner that is anything but conventional. Instead of a fast-paced sci-fi thriller, Dumont delivers an offbeat, almost lethargic narrative interspersed with philosophical musings, bizarre humor, and moments of stark realism.
A Bold but Polarizing Cinematic Experience
A Satirical Take on Sci-Fi Epics
Dumont’s film is an obvious nod to Star Wars, but rather than a straightforward homage, it’s a sharp critique. The director deconstructs the typical sci-fi hero’s journey, replacing grandiose battles with awkward, almost comically underwhelming skirmishes. Light sabers clash in the middle of a quiet coastal town, heads roll in silent fields, and alien dialogue echoes with a strange, Lynchian quality.
The film’s irreverent tone suggests a deeper skepticism toward mainstream sci-fi’s escapist tendencies. Dumont seems to argue that the genre’s obsession with good versus evil is overly simplistic, offering a universe where moral ambiguity reigns supreme.
Performances: Between Absurdity and Sincerity
Fabrice Luchini plays Beelzebub, the film’s flamboyant, almost cartoonish villain, while Camille Cottin embodies The Queen, a leader of the opposing faction. Their performances are deliberately exaggerated, embracing the film’s surreal, comedic undertones. However, despite their efforts, the characters remain archetypal and underdeveloped.
Meanwhile, the film’s ensemble of non-professional actors adds a raw, unpolished quality to the performances. This contrast between theatrical grandeur and understated realism creates a tonal dissonance that can either captivate or frustrate viewers.
A Visual Contrast: The Pastoral Meets the Cosmic
Visually, The Empire is striking. The cinematography beautifully captures the Opal Coast’s desolate landscapes, providing a stark contrast to the film’s absurdist sci-fi elements. However, the special effects are inconsistent—some moments are impressively cinematic, while others feel intentionally low-budget, reinforcing the film’s satirical approach.
Critical Reception: Love It or Hate It
The Empire debuted at the Berlin Film Festival, where it received mixed reactions. Some critics praised its daring, avant-garde approach, likening it to a French Monty Python in space. Others found it painfully slow and directionless.
A few key takeaways from audience reviews:
- Some appreciated its absurdity but found it excessively drawn out.
- Many noted its thematic depth but criticized its lack of emotional engagement.
- A common critique was its jarring blend of satire, philosophy, and sci-fi tropes.
Essentially, The Empire is not a film for casual moviegoers—it demands patience and an appreciation for its eccentricities.
Where to Watch The Empire (2024) Online?
As of March 2025, The Empire is not yet available for streaming. However, based on distribution trends, the film is expected to land on the following platforms in the near future:
Expected Streaming Platforms in the U.S.:
- Mubi – Known for hosting independent and art-house films, Mubi is a likely candidate for The Empire’s streaming release.
- Criterion Channel – Given Dumont’s artistic pedigree, the film could be featured in Criterion’s selection of experimental cinema.
- Amazon Prime Video (Rental/Purchase) – Many international films eventually become available for digital rental or purchase here.
- Apple TV (Rental/Purchase) – Another likely option for those looking to rent or buy the film.
For real-time availability, check JustWatch.
Final Verdict: A Film That Defies Categorization
The Empire is a bold, divisive film that challenges conventional storytelling. While some will admire its experimental nature and dark humor, others may find it meandering and impenetrable. If you’re a fan of Dumont’s previous works or enjoy films that defy expectations, The Empire is worth experiencing—if only to witness one of the strangest sci-fi satires in recent years.
Have you seen The Empire? What’s your take on its eccentric blend of satire and sci-fi? Share your thoughts in the comments below! And don’t forget to check JustWatch for the latest streaming options.
