A Dark Odyssey Through the World of Sensational Journalism
Introduction
"Nightcrawler," directed by Dan Gilroy, takes us on an unsettling journey through the nocturnal streets of Los Angeles, following a rogue freelance video journalist, Louis Bloom, played with unnerving charm by Jake Gyllenhaal. The film blurs the line between media ethics and sensationalism, as Bloom captures crime scenes and accidents for news stations willing to pay for exclusive, gruesome footage.
Plot Summary
Louis Bloom is a struggling odd-job man who finds a new career path when he stumbles upon the world of nightcrawling. With a stolen bike, a cheap camera, and a police scanner, he starts collecting footage of violent crimes and car crashes to sell to local news stations. As he becomes more successful, his moral compass erodes, leading him to increasingly desperate acts for that perfect shot.
Why You Should Watch
Jake Gyllenhaal's portrayal of Louis Bloom is among his best performances. His evolution from a desperate job-seeker to a soulless opportunist provides a disturbing look at what a person is capable of when fueled by ambition and a lack of ethics.
The film also offers a scathing critique of modern media's "if it bleeds, it leads" mentality, forcing viewers to question the ethics of news consumption.
Where to Watch "Nightcrawler"
United States
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
- Stream: Available on Max Amazon Channel, Max, DIRECTV, Cinemax Amazon Channel.
- Buy: Can be purchased on Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, among others.
Australia
There are currently no streaming offers in the AU.
- Stream: Available on Stan.
- Buy: Can be purchased on Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, and others.
United Kingdom
There are currently no streaming offers in the GB.
- Stream: Available on Netflix, Sundance Now Amazon Channel, Netflix basic with Ads.
- Buy: Can be purchased on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Sky Store, among others.
Germany
There are currently no streaming offers in the DE.
- Stream: Available on MagentaTV, MUBI, Filmtastic, among others.
- Buy: Can be purchased on Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, among others.
Brazil
There are currently no streaming offers in the BR.
- Stream: Available on HBO Max.
- Buy: Can be purchased on Apple TV and Amazon Video.
Spain
There are currently no streaming offers in the ES.
- Stream: Available on Amazon Prime Video, Movistar Plus.
- Buy: Can be purchased on Rakuten TV.
France
There are currently no streaming offers in the FR.
- Stream: Currently not available for streaming.
- Buy: Can be purchased on Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Orange VOD, among others.
Canada
There are currently no streaming offers in the CA.
- Stream: Available on Paramount Plus, Paramount+ Amazon Channel, Paramount Plus Apple TV Channel.
- Buy: Can be purchased on Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Cineplex, Microsoft Store, and others.
Conclusion
"Nightcrawler" is a compelling thriller that provides an incisive look into the ethics of journalism and the lengths some people will go to achieve their ambitions. With its riveting plot and stellar performances, especially by Jake Gyllenhaal, it's a film that will leave you contemplating its themes long after the end credits roll.