The Wasp (2024) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
“The Wasp” (2024), directed by Guillem Morales, is a gripping psychological thriller that explores themes of childhood trauma, revenge, and class conflict. Starring Naomie Harris and Natalie Dormer, this film is a powerful showcase of intense performances and a story that twists and turns in unexpected ways. Adapted from Morgan Lloyd Malcolm’s play, “The Wasp” is a claustrophobic and emotionally charged film that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
In this article, we will dive into a detailed review of the movie and provide you with information on where you can watch “The Wasp” (2024) online through streaming services available in America.
Plot Summary: A Web of Deception and Revenge
The story of “The Wasp” follows Heather (Naomie Harris), a wealthy but unhappy housewife living in Bath, England, trapped in a loveless marriage and struggling with infertility. Her quiet, mundane life takes a dark turn when she reconnects with her former childhood friend and school bully, Carla (Natalie Dormer).
Carla, now pregnant with her fourth child and living in poverty, seems like the polar opposite of Heather. However, their shared past binds them together in more ways than either realizes. What begins as a seemingly innocent reunion soon morphs into a dangerous power play, as Heather hatches a revenge plot to murder her emotionally distant and unfaithful husband, Simon (Dominic Allburn).
The film’s title, “The Wasp,” is both symbolic and literal. Throughout the film, wasps appear as a recurring motif, representing the inner turmoil, anger, and danger lurking beneath the surface of Heather and Carla’s lives. As Heather takes matters into her own hands—just as she once smashed a wasp nest—her life spirals out of control.
Performances: Naomie Harris and Natalie Dormer Shine
Both Naomie Harris and Natalie Dormer deliver standout performances in “The Wasp.” Harris, known for her Oscar-nominated role in “Moonlight,” portrays Heather as a character wound tight with repressed emotions and hidden darkness. She brings a nuanced and layered performance that shows the cracks in Heather’s composed facade.
Natalie Dormer is equally compelling as Carla, who exudes a street-smart toughness that contrasts with Heather’s privileged yet fragile persona. Dormer’s portrayal of Carla oscillates between being fiercely independent and tragically vulnerable, making her a complex character who is more than meets the eye. Together, Harris and Dormer create an electrifying dynamic that is the beating heart of the film.
The psychological battle between the two women is heightened by their chemistry. As they rekindle their old friendship, buried secrets resurface, and a chilling power struggle ensues. Heather’s initially calculated plan becomes more complicated as her and Carla’s roles shift, revealing deeper emotional scars and unresolved conflicts from their shared past.
Direction and Cinematography: Claustrophobic Tension
Director Guillem Morales skillfully adapts Morgan Lloyd Malcolm’s stage play into a cinematic experience while retaining its tight, dialogue-heavy structure. Much of the action takes place within the confines of Heather’s home, creating a sense of claustrophobia that mirrors the characters’ internal struggles. The eerie, muted color palette and Morales’ use of glacial, slow-moving camera shots heighten the tension, giving the film a brooding and suspenseful atmosphere.
The film is also marked by its careful use of flashbacks, which gradually unveil the troubled history between Heather and Carla. These scenes are punctuated by sharp lighting and sound design, transforming mundane moments into psychological horror. The wasp motif, a recurring element, adds another layer of symbolism that ties the narrative’s themes together.
Themes: Revenge, Class Conflict, and Trauma
At its core, “The Wasp” is a film about revenge and the long-lasting impact of childhood trauma. Heather and Carla’s relationship is shaped by their past, where bullying, manipulation, and unresolved conflicts still haunt them in adulthood.
The film also delves into themes of class conflict, as Heather’s wealth and privilege contrast starkly with Carla’s financial struggles. This disparity plays a crucial role in their power dynamic, as Heather initially assumes that Carla, with her rough exterior and working-class background, will easily help her execute the murder plot.
Another theme that runs through the film is motherhood. While Carla is a mother multiple times over, Heather is unable to conceive, adding another layer of tension and envy to their relationship. The juxtaposition of these two characters’ lives adds emotional depth to the story, making their decisions feel personal and relatable, even as the plot escalates into dark territory.
Where to Watch “The Wasp” (2024) Online in the U.S.
If you’re interested in watching “The Wasp” online, several streaming services in America offer access to this thrilling psychological drama. Here’s where you can stream or rent the movie:
1. Paramount+
As one of the film’s key distributors, Paramount+ is expected to stream “The Wasp” shortly after its theatrical release. Paramount+ offers both subscription-based streaming and rental options for new releases.
2. Amazon Prime Video
“The Wasp” (2024) will be available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Prime users can access the film in HD or 4K quality, with a typical rental window of 48 hours.
3. Apple TV
Another option for renting or buying “The Wasp” is through Apple TV. It offers high-definition streaming and allows users to purchase the film for unlimited access.
4. Vudu
For those who prefer renting films on a pay-per-view basis, Vudu is a great option. “The Wasp” is likely to be available on Vudu for both rental and purchase, offering various pricing tiers based on video quality.
5. Google Play Movies & TV
Google Play is another platform where you can rent or purchase “The Wasp”. Like other services, it provides flexible rental and purchase options, allowing viewers to watch the film at their convenience.
6. YouTube Movies
Finally, YouTube Movies offers rental and purchase options for those who want to stream directly from the popular video platform. “The Wasp” should be available in both standard and high-definition formats.
Final Verdict: A Tense, Unpredictable Thriller
“The Wasp” (2024) is a slow-burning psychological thriller that keeps its audience guessing until the very end. With stellar performances from Naomie Harris and Natalie Dormer, and smart direction from Guillem Morales, this film is an engrossing exploration of revenge, class, and trauma. While some elements of the narrative may feel a bit heavy-handed, the overall experience is an engaging and thought-provoking watch.
Whether you’re a fan of suspenseful dramas or enjoy stories of complex female relationships, “The Wasp” offers an exciting, edge-of-your-seat experience. Be sure to check it out on your preferred streaming platform for a gripping cinematic journey.
