Zabriskie Point (1970) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Zabriskie Point (1970) is a visually striking and controversial film directed by the legendary Italian filmmaker Michelangelo Antonioni. Known for his contemplative and often experimental style, Antonioni’s work here delves into the American counterculture of the late 1960s, exploring themes of alienation, consumerism, and rebellion.
Plot Summary
Zabriskie Point centers on two young characters, Mark (Mark Frechette) and Daria (Daria Halprin), whose lives intersect briefly in the vast desert landscape of the American Southwest:
- Mark’s Story: Mark is a disillusioned student involved in radical activism. After a campus protest turns violent, he impulsively steals a small airplane and flies it into the desert.
- Daria’s Journey: Daria is a secretary working for a real estate developer. She is on a journey to Phoenix, Arizona, for a meeting but decides to take a detour through the desert.
- Desert Encounter: The two meet in the desolate beauty of Zabriskie Point, a real location in Death Valley. Their brief connection is marked by a mix of sexual freedom, philosophical musings, and a shared sense of disillusionment with modern society.
- Climactic Finale: The film culminates in a surreal and visually arresting explosion, representing a radical rejection of materialism and the status quo.
Zabriskie Point is less about narrative and more about mood, symbolism, and visual impact. The film’s striking imagery and iconic scenes have made it a cult favorite, despite its mixed critical reception at the time of release.
Critical Reception
Zabriskie Point was met with mixed reviews upon its release, with some praising its visual style and others criticizing its lack of narrative coherence:
Strengths:
- Cinematography: The film is widely celebrated for its stunning cinematography by Alfio Contini, particularly the desert sequences that capture the stark beauty of the American landscape.
- Symbolism and Visual Impact: Antonioni’s use of symbolism, particularly in the film’s explosive finale, is both thought-provoking and visually arresting. The explosion scene is often cited as one of the most iconic in cinema history.
- Soundtrack: The soundtrack, featuring music by Pink Floyd, The Rolling Stones, and other artists, is another highlight. The music complements the film’s themes and enhances its overall atmosphere.
Weaknesses:
- Narrative Structure: The film’s loose narrative and minimal character development were points of criticism. Some viewers find the film’s abstract approach challenging and difficult to engage with.
- Pacing: The film’s slow pace and lack of traditional plot progression can be alienating for some audiences. It requires patience and an appreciation for its artistic intent.
Overall, Zabriskie Point is seen as a bold and ambitious work that reflects Antonioni’s distinctive style. It remains a divisive film, but one that has garnered a significant cult following over the years.
Themes and Analysis
Zabriskie Point explores several key themes:
- Alienation and Rebellion: The film reflects the sense of alienation and disillusionment felt by many young people in the 1960s. Mark and Daria’s actions symbolize a rejection of societal norms and materialism.
- Consumerism and Materialism: The film critiques consumerism and the destructive nature of modern society. This is most powerfully symbolized in the explosive finale, which can be seen as a metaphor for the rejection of the consumerist culture.
- Freedom and Escapism: The desert setting represents a place of escape and freedom from the constraints of society. It serves as a backdrop for the characters’ brief exploration of an alternative way of life.
- Visual and Symbolic Storytelling: Antonioni uses visual storytelling to convey his themes, often relying on imagery and symbolism rather than dialogue or conventional narrative techniques.
Where to Watch Zabriskie Point Online
If you’re interested in watching Zabriskie Point (1970), here are some options:
1. Streaming Services
- Criterion Channel: Zabriskie Point is often available on the Criterion Channel, which specializes in classic and art-house films. A subscription is required.
- HBO Max: The film may also be available on HBO Max, depending on your location and subscription.
2. Rental/Purchase Services
- Amazon Video: You can rent or purchase Zabriskie Point on Amazon Video. Rentals typically start at around $3.99, with purchase options available for about $14.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Google Play offers rental and purchase options for Zabriskie Point. Rentals are usually around $3.99, with the film available for purchase at approximately $14.99.
- Apple iTunes: The film is available for rental or purchase on Apple iTunes, with similar pricing to other platforms.
- Vudu: Vudu provides rental and purchase options, with rentals starting at $3.99 and purchase options around $14.99.
Conclusion
Zabriskie Point (1970) is a visually stunning and symbolically rich film directed by Michelangelo Antonioni. Known for its striking cinematography, powerful use of symbolism, and iconic soundtrack, the film offers a unique and thought-provoking exploration of American counterculture and the societal issues of its time.
While its abstract narrative and slow pacing may not appeal to everyone, Zabriskie Point remains a significant and influential work in the history of cinema. Available on various streaming and rental platforms, it offers an opportunity to experience a bold and visually captivating film that continues to inspire debate and admiration.
