Where to Watch "Saved!"

A Satirical Take on Religion, Teen Life, and Moral Ambiguity

"Saved!" is a 2004 comedy-drama film directed by Brian Dannelly and starring Jena Malone, Mandy Moore, Macaulay Culkin, and Patrick Fugit. The film tackles the complexities of religion, teen angst, and social issues, setting its story within the context of a Christian high school. While it stirred some controversy due to its critical look at organized religion and its mores, the film also gained a following for its irreverent humor and its nuanced approach to often sensitive topics.

The Storyline

Jena Malone plays Mary, a devout Christian girl who, in an effort to 'save' her boyfriend after he confesses he's gay, ends up pregnant. Navigating the tricky landscape of a conservative Christian high school, Mary starts questioning her faith and the rigid moral codes imposed by her community. The film delves into the lives of various characters, each of whom embodies a different facet of religious or social identity. Together, they tackle teenage pregnancy, intolerance, questions of faith, and the fluidity of moral righteousness.

Themes and Characters

"Saved!" uses satire to explore both the flaws and merits of organized religion. The film doesn't just critique religious hypocrisy; it also sheds light on the genuine struggles that individuals face when their personal experiences do not align with institutional expectations. Mary, the protagonist, undergoes significant character development, evolving from a naive, rule-following teenager into a young woman who understands the complexity of morality.

The supporting characters, including the ultra-religious Hilary Faye (played by Mandy Moore) and the rebellious Cassandra (Eva Amurri), offer a broad spectrum of perspectives on faith and conformity. This mix allows the film to be a critique not just of religion, but also of the rigidity of societal norms more broadly.

Where to Stream and Buy "Saved!"

United States

• Streaming: Available on Amazon Prime Video, Paramount Plus Apple TV Channel, and Hoopla.
• Buy: You can buy it on Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store, and DIRECTV.

Australia

• Streaming: Currently not available for streaming.
• Buy: Platforms for purchase include Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, and YouTube.

United Kingdom

• Streaming: Available on MGM Amazon Channel.
• Buy: You can buy it on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and YouTube.

Germany

• Streaming: Currently not available for streaming.
• Buy: Available for purchase on Apple TV and Amazon Video.

Brazil

• Streaming: Currently not available for streaming.
• Buy: Platforms for purchase include Apple TV and Amazon Video.

Spain

• Streaming: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Buy: You can buy it on Apple TV and Amazon Video.

France

• Streaming: Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• Buy: Platforms for purchase include Apple TV and Amazon Video.

Canada

• Streaming: Available on Hoopla.
• Buy: You can buy it on Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Amazon Video.

Reception and Impact

"Saved!" received a mixed critical reception upon its release but has since gained a cult following. It's applauded for its satirical yet compassionate handling of complex issues like religious extremism, teen pregnancy, and social alienation. While it might not be for everyone, especially those who might find its religious satire biting, it's an interesting cinematic experiment that combines humor with thought-provoking commentary.

If you're in the mood for a film that deftly combines comedy and drama to explore the intricacies of religion and adolescence, "Saved!" might just be the film for you. With its sharp wit, nuanced characters, and complex themes, it's a film that invites viewers to ponder the complexities of faith, morality, and societal norms. Given its availability on multiple streaming platforms and stores, catching this controversial yet insightful movie has never been easier.