Wildlife (2018) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Wildlife (2018) is a poignant drama directed by Paul Dano and co-written with Zoe Kazan, based on the novel by Richard Ford. Starring Carey Mulligan, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Ed Oxenbould, the film delves into the emotional complexities of a family grappling with personal and financial upheaval. Set in the 1960s, Wildlife tells the story of a young boy’s coming-of-age experience as he witnesses his parents’ marriage disintegrate amidst economic instability and personal crises.
The film has been praised for its powerful performances, subtle storytelling, and its exploration of family dynamics. In this review, we’ll explore the key elements that make Wildlife a compelling drama and provide information on where to stream, rent, or purchase the film online.
Plot Overview
Wildlife is set in 1960 Montana and follows the story of Joe Brinson (Ed Oxenbould), a 14-year-old boy whose life is turned upside down when his father, Jerry (Jake Gyllenhaal), loses his job as a golf course groundskeeper. Struggling to find work, Jerry decides to join a dangerous and poorly paid firefighting crew battling wildfires in the nearby mountains, leaving his wife, Jeanette (Carey Mulligan), and their son behind.
As Jerry leaves, the family’s financial situation worsens, and Jeanette begins to unravel emotionally. Joe becomes a reluctant observer of his mother’s increasing instability and the changes in their family dynamic. As Jeanette begins an affair with a wealthy local man, Joe is forced to confront the reality of his family’s disintegration and his own growing sense of independence.
The film explores themes of economic hardship, marital strife, and the emotional impact of a crumbling family structure through Joe’s eyes, highlighting the personal sacrifices and internal conflicts faced by each character.
Film Analysis
Wildlife is a beautifully crafted film that combines strong performances with a thoughtful and restrained narrative. Paul Dano’s directorial debut showcases his ability to capture the nuances of human emotion and relationships with subtlety and depth. The film’s slow pace and introspective storytelling allow for a deep exploration of its characters and their struggles.
Carey Mulligan delivers a standout performance as Jeanette Brinson, a woman who grapples with her dissatisfaction in life and the consequences of her decisions. Mulligan’s portrayal of Jeanette’s emotional turbulence is both raw and compelling, capturing the complexity of a woman who is both a victim of her circumstances and an active participant in her own downfall.
Jake Gyllenhaal also gives a strong performance as Jerry Brinson, embodying the frustration and helplessness of a man who feels trapped by his circumstances. Gyllenhaal’s portrayal of Jerry’s internal conflict and sense of responsibility is poignant and adds depth to the film’s exploration of family dynamics.
Ed Oxenbould, as Joe Brinson, provides the emotional heart of the film. His portrayal of a young boy coming to terms with his family’s disintegration is both sensitive and powerful. Joe’s journey from innocence to a deeper understanding of the complexities of adult relationships is handled with grace and authenticity.
The film’s cinematography, with its evocative depiction of the 1960s Montana landscape, adds to the overall atmosphere of the movie. The muted color palette and naturalistic lighting contribute to the film’s contemplative tone, emphasizing the sense of isolation and emotional distance experienced by the characters.
The screenplay, adapted from Richard Ford’s novel, captures the internal and external conflicts faced by the Brinson family with a keen eye for detail. The dialogue is understated yet impactful, reflecting the characters’ struggles and the tension within the family.
Where to Watch Wildlife Online in the U.S.
If you’re looking to watch Wildlife, here’s where you can stream, rent, or purchase the film online:
Streaming Services
- Hulu
Wildlife is available for streaming on Hulu. Hulu offers a subscription plan starting at $7.99/month with ads and $14.99/month for an ad-free experience. Hulu’s streaming service includes a variety of films and TV shows, making it a good option for those looking to watch Wildlife and other quality content. - Amazon Prime Video
Wildlife is available on Amazon Prime Video for subscribers. If you have a Prime membership, you can stream the film as part of the service. Prime memberships start at $14.99/month and include access to Amazon’s vast library of movies and TV shows.
Rental & Purchase Options
- Amazon Prime Video
For those who prefer to rent or purchase Wildlife, Amazon Prime Video offers both options. You can rent the film for $3.99 in HD or purchase it for $12.99. Amazon provides a seamless viewing experience on a range of devices. - Apple iTunes
Wildlife is available for rent on iTunes for $3.99 or for purchase at $12.99. Apple’s platform offers high-quality streaming for users on iOS devices, making it a convenient option for Apple users. - Google Play Movies & TV
Google Play offers Wildlife for rent at $3.99 and for purchase at $12.99. The platform supports streaming on Android devices and browsers linked to your Google account. - Vudu
Vudu allows viewers to rent Wildlife for $3.99 or purchase it for $12.99. Vudu supports streaming on multiple devices, including smart TVs, game consoles, and mobile devices. - YouTube Movies
Wildlife is also available for rent and purchase on YouTube Movies, with rental priced at $3.99 and purchase at $12.99. YouTube’s platform supports streaming on any device that has access to YouTube.
Other Streaming Services
Currently, Wildlife is not available on streaming services like Netflix or Disney+, but it is accessible through Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and several rental and purchase platforms.
Conclusion: Why Wildlife Is a Must-Watch
Wildlife is a deeply moving and introspective film that offers a nuanced exploration of family dynamics and personal struggles. Paul Dano’s direction, combined with standout performances from Carey Mulligan, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Ed Oxenbould, creates a powerful and emotionally resonant story.
The film’s portrayal of economic hardship, marital strife, and the impact of a family’s disintegration is both heartfelt and thought-provoking. With its strong character-driven narrative and evocative cinematography, Wildlife is a compelling watch for those interested in character studies and drama.
With multiple streaming, rental, and purchase options available, Wildlife is easily accessible for anyone looking to experience this poignant and well-crafted film.
Watch Wildlife today and delve into a powerful exploration of family, hardship, and personal growth.
