The Club (2015) Watch Online Free

In a secluded house in a small seaside town live four unrelated men and the woman who tends to the house and their needs. All former priests, they have been sent to this quiet exile to purge the sins of their pasts, the separation from their communities the worst form of punishment by the Church. They keep to a strict daily schedule devoid of all temptation and spontaneity, each moment a deliberate effort to atone for their wrongdoings.

Directed by Pablo Larraín, The Club is a Chilean drama that delves into the lives of four retired Catholic priests residing in a secluded house on the outskirts of a small beach town. These men, under the supervision of a vigilant female caretaker, have been sent to this remote location to atone for their alleged sins and crimes, including child abuse, baby-snatching for adoptions, and whistleblowing. Their daily routine is strictly controlled: they are not permitted to mingle with the townsfolk and are only allowed out during early morning and late night. Their only hobby is breeding a racing dog and entering competitions.

The priests’ secluded existence is disrupted when a new priest arrives, bringing with him a victim of his child abuse. This event leads to the priest’s suicide, prompting the arrival of a new spiritual director who challenges the established order and forces the priests to confront their past actions. The film explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the moral complexities of the Catholic Church’s handling of sexual abuse cases.

Main Themes

1. Guilt and Redemption: The film delves into the psychological torment of the priests, highlighting their internal struggles with guilt and the elusive nature of redemption. It questions whether true atonement is possible for their heinous actions.
2. Institutional Corruption: The Club critiques the Catholic Church’s institutional response to sexual abuse scandals, portraying a system more concerned with protecting its reputation than addressing the victims’ suffering.
3. Isolation and Confinement: The priests’ physical isolation in the secluded house mirrors their emotional and moral isolation, emphasizing the theme of confinement both literal and metaphorical.
4. Hypocrisy and Moral Ambiguity: The film exposes the hypocrisy within the Church, where the outward appearance of piety contrasts sharply with the hidden sins of its clergy. It challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about moral ambiguity.
5. Power Dynamics and Control: The Club examines the power structures within the Church, focusing on how authority is wielded to maintain control and suppress dissent, often at the expense of justice.

Impact of the Movie

Upon its release, The Club received critical acclaim for its unflinching portrayal of the Catholic Church’s handling of sexual abuse cases. The film was lauded for its stark realism, compelling performances, and its ability to provoke deep reflection on institutional corruption and moral responsibility. It won the Silver Bear Grand Jury Prize at the 65th Berlin International Film Festival and was selected as the Chilean entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 88th Academy Awards, though it was not nominated.

7 Reasons to Watch The Club

1. Unflinching Exploration of Sensitive Topics: The Club confronts the uncomfortable realities of sexual abuse within the Catholic Church, offering a raw and unvarnished look at the issue. This fearless approach challenges viewers to engage with difficult subject matter.
2. Masterful Direction by Pablo Larraín: Larraín’s direction is both precise and evocative, creating a claustrophobic atmosphere that mirrors the priests’ internal turmoil. His ability to convey complex emotions through visual storytelling is commendable.
3. Compelling Performances: The cast delivers powerful performances, particularly Roberto Farías and Antonia Zegers, who bring depth and authenticity to their roles. Their portrayals add emotional weight to the narrative.
4. Thought-Provoking Narrative: The film’s narrative structure encourages viewers to question the nature of justice, forgiveness, and the moral complexities of institutional power. It prompts introspection and discussion.
5. Cinematic Excellence: With its stark cinematography and minimalist set design, The Club creates a visually arresting experience that enhances the film’s thematic depth. The visual style complements the somber tone.
6. Critical Acclaim: The film has been recognized for its excellence, receiving positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. Its accolades underscore its impact and significance in contemporary cinema.
7. Cultural Relevance: The Club offers a timely commentary on the ongoing discussions about institutional accountability and the need for transparency, making it a relevant watch for contemporary audiences.

How Will You Feel After Watching The Club?

After watching The Club, you may experience a profound sense of discomfort and introspection. The film’s unflinching portrayal of the Catholic Church’s handling of sexual abuse cases is both harrowing and thought-provoking, leaving you to grapple with the moral complexities presented.

The stark realism and emotional depth of the narrative may evoke feelings of empathy for the victims and a deep-seated anger towards the institutional failures depicted. You might find yourself reflecting on the broader implications of the film, considering the systemic issues within powerful institutions and the human capacity for both good and evil.

The film’s minimalist style and somber tone contribute to a lingering sense of unease, prompting you to question societal structures and the nature of justice. This introspection may lead to a heightened awareness of the importance of accountability and the need for systemic change.

Overall, The Club is a film that challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths, leaving a lasting impact that encourages critical reflection on issues of morality, power, and institutional responsibility.