The Soul Eater (2024) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
The highly anticipated thriller The Soul Eater (2024), directed by the acclaimed French duo Julien Maury and Alexandre Bustillo, takes viewers on a chilling ride through folklore, murder, and an old mountain legend. Known for their dark and disturbing films like Inside and Livid, Maury and Bustillo deliver yet another unforgettable, blood-chilling narrative that will haunt audiences long after the credits roll.
But the real question is—where can you watch this new horror thriller online? Below, we’ll dive into a spoiler-free review and discuss your options for streaming or renting this bone-chilling film.
What Is The Soul Eater About?
Set in a remote French mountain village, The Soul Eater revolves around a series of gruesome murders and the unexplained disappearance of local children. At the heart of the mystery are two out-of-town investigators: Commander Elizabeth Guardiano (played by Virginie Ledoyen) and Captain Franck De Rolan (played by Paul Hamy). The duo is forced to put aside their differences and work together as they unravel a string of disturbing clues leading them to an ancient urban legend: the “Soul Eater.”
Tensions escalate as the investigators discover chilling evidence of a supernatural creature terrorizing the village. The once-quiet town of Roquenoir hides dark secrets, and as they dig deeper, they realize they are up against something far more sinister than a mere serial killer.
A Unique Blend of Crime Thriller and Folklore Horror
Maury and Bustillo have been at the forefront of French horror for over a decade, and The Soul Eater continues their legacy with a grounded, yet terrifying, approach. Though the film is less “gore-heavy” than their previous works, it strikes a perfect balance between police procedural and supernatural horror, making it a unique addition to their portfolio.
While comparisons can be drawn to films like Seven or The Snowman, The Soul Eater stands out due to its masterful use of tension and folklore-inspired horror. The eerie visuals of woodland creatures, combined with the mysterious wooden totems scattered across the village, create a suffocating atmosphere of dread.
However, the film isn’t without its flaws. Some plot twists, while shocking, might feel somewhat contrived. The focus on realism is admirable, but at times, it makes certain revelations feel far-fetched. That said, fans of slow-burn horror and police thrillers will likely find these elements intriguing rather than off-putting.
Characters and Performances
Virginie Ledoyen’s portrayal of Commander Elizabeth Guardiano is both intense and nuanced. Her character, a disillusioned cop returning after a long break, starts out cold and abrasive, making her difficult to root for. However, as the film progresses, her tragic backstory is slowly revealed, giving her some much-needed depth.
On the other hand, Paul Hamy as Franck De Rolan delivers the film’s most compelling performance. His character undergoes the most emotional transformation, though not in a traditionally heroic sense. Instead, Franck remains broken and haunted by his past, and while he makes strides throughout the investigation, his arc ultimately leaves the audience feeling unsettled and without closure.
The film’s villain, The Soul Eater, is an ambiguous, almost mythical figure. Unfortunately, the antagonist doesn’t receive enough screen time to become a fully fleshed-out threat. However, Sandrine Bonnaire’s portrayal of this malevolent figure adds a chilling dimension to the story, making every scene she’s in feel unsettling.
Where to Watch The Soul Eater (2024) Online
As of October 2024, The Soul Eater is available for streaming and digital purchase across a variety of platforms. Whether you’re looking to rent, buy, or stream, here’s where you can watch it:
1. Amazon Prime Video
Amazon offers The Soul Eater for both rental and purchase. Prices range from $5.99 for a rental to $19.99 for a digital purchase. This platform allows you to watch the film in high-definition and is accessible in the U.S. and many other regions.
2. Apple TV
On Apple TV, you can rent or buy The Soul Eater with similar pricing to Amazon. Apple TV is known for its user-friendly interface and compatibility with various Apple devices, making it an excellent option for users looking to stream on their iPhones, iPads, or MacBooks.
3. Google Play Movies
For Android users, Google Play Movies offers the film for both rental and purchase. Pricing here also ranges from $5.99 to $19.99, making it a convenient choice for users who prefer Google’s ecosystem.
Final Thoughts
The Soul Eater delivers a haunting, folklore-infused thriller that may not live up to the brutality of Maury and Bustillo’s earlier works but still stands out as an unsettling and visually striking film. Though its pacing can be slow at times and its twists a bit overplayed, the film excels in its atmospheric tension, disturbing imagery, and solid performances from the lead actors.
Whether you’re a fan of supernatural horror, crime thrillers, or French cinema, The Soul Eater is worth watching—especially if you’re in the mood for something chilling yet unique. Be prepared for unsettling themes, a blend of realism and folklore, and a story that lingers long after it’s over.
