Live by Night (2016) Watch Online Free
A group of Boston-bred gangsters set up shop in balmy Florida during the Prohibition era, facing off against the competition and the Ku Klux Klan.
Live by Night, directed by and starring Ben Affleck, is a crime drama set during the Prohibition era. The film follows Joe Coughlin, the son of a Boston police captain, who becomes embroiled in the world of organized crime. Initially engaging in petty theft, Joe’s life takes a tumultuous turn when he falls in love with Emma Gould, the mistress of Irish mob boss Albert White. Their illicit affair leads to betrayal, imprisonment, and a quest for vengeance.
Upon his release from prison, Joe allies with Italian mobster Maso Pescatore, relocating to Tampa, Florida, to establish a rum-running operation. In Tampa, he navigates complex relationships, including a romantic involvement with Graciela Corrales, and confronts challenges from the Ku Klux Klan and rival gangs. As Joe ascends the criminal hierarchy, he grapples with moral dilemmas and the consequences of his choices. The narrative culminates in a violent confrontation that forces Joe to reevaluate his life and aspirations.
The film explores the moral complexities of a life of crime, highlighting Joe’s internal struggle between his criminal activities and his personal code of ethics. His journey reflects the challenges of maintaining one’s integrity in a corrupt world.
Set against the backdrop of Prohibition, the story delves into the pervasive influence of corruption, illustrating how law enforcement, politics, and business are entangled with organized crime. This theme underscores the blurred lines between legality and criminality.
Joe’s relationships, particularly with Graciela and his father, emphasize the significance of loyalty and betrayal. The narrative examines how personal bonds are tested in the treacherous world of organized crime.
The film portrays the pursuit of the American Dream through illicit means, questioning the true cost of success and the sacrifices made in its attainment. Joe’s rise in the criminal underworld serves as a commentary on ambition and the desire for power.
Upon its release, Live by Night received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. While some praised its production design and Affleck’s direction, others criticized its pacing and narrative execution. The film holds a 35% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, indicating generally unfavorable reviews. Commercially, the movie underperformed, grossing approximately $22 million worldwide against a production budget of $65 million. Despite its shortcomings, the film’s depiction of the Prohibition era and its exploration of complex themes have garnered appreciation from certain audiences.
After viewing Live by Night, audiences may experience a blend of intrigue and reflection. The film’s depiction of the Prohibition era, combined with its exploration of moral complexities, invites viewers to ponder the ethical dimensions of ambition and the human cost of a life entwined with crime. The narrative’s tragic elements and the protagonist’s journey evoke empathy, while the action sequences provide adrenaline-fueled entertainment. Overall, the movie offers a multifaceted experience that engages both the mind and emotions, leaving a lasting impression of the turbulent pursuit of the American Dream.
