What Richard Did (2012) Watch Online Free

What Richard Did is a striking portrait of the fall of a Dublin golden-boy and high school rugby star whose world unravels one summer night.

What Richard Did (2012), directed by Lenny Abrahamson, is an Irish drama that delves into the life of Richard Karlsen, a charismatic and privileged young man living in an affluent Dublin suburb. The film begins with Richard enjoying his final summer before university, spending time with friends and developing a romantic interest in Lara Hogan, the girlfriend of his former rugby teammate, Conor Harris. Richard’s pursuit of Lara leads to tension with Conor, culminating in a violent altercation at a party. During this confrontation, Richard delivers a fatal blow to Conor, resulting in Conor’s death. The narrative then explores Richard’s internal struggle with guilt, the impact of his actions on his relationships, and the moral complexities of his privileged upbringing.

The film is noted for its subtle storytelling and character development, focusing on Richard’s psychological journey as he grapples with the consequences of his actions. The narrative unfolds in a restrained manner, allowing the audience to delve deeply into Richard’s character and the societal pressures that influence his behavior. The film’s exploration of themes such as privilege, guilt, and moral responsibility is both nuanced and thought-provoking.

Main Themes

Privilege and Entitlement

What Richard Did examines the theme of privilege, highlighting how Richard’s affluent background influences his sense of entitlement and detachment from the consequences of his actions. His upbringing in a wealthy environment contributes to his initial lack of awareness regarding the impact of his behavior on others.

Guilt and Redemption

The film delves into the psychological turmoil Richard experiences following the incident, portraying his struggle with guilt and the search for redemption. His journey reflects the complexities of atonement and the challenges of reconciling one’s actions with personal morality.

Social Dynamics and Peer Pressure

The narrative explores the influence of social dynamics and peer pressure on individual behavior. Richard’s interactions with his friends and his desire to maintain his social status play significant roles in his decision-making process, highlighting the impact of group dynamics on personal choices.

Moral Ambiguity

What Richard Did presents a morally ambiguous scenario, prompting viewers to question the nature of responsibility and the extent to which individuals are accountable for their actions. The film challenges the audience to consider the complexities of human behavior and the factors that influence moral decision-making.

Impact of the Movie

What Richard Did received critical acclaim for its compelling storytelling and nuanced performances. The film holds a 91% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with an average rating of 7. 6/10, indicating widespread positive reception. Critics praised the film for its subtlety and depth, noting its exploration of complex themes and the strong performances of the cast. Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian described it as an engrossing and intelligent drama that throbs in the mind for hours after the final credits.

The film’s success extended to awards recognition, winning Best Film at the 10th Irish Film & Television Awards. Jack Reynor received the award for Best Actor in a Lead Role for his portrayal of Richard, and Lenny Abrahamson won Best Director. These accolades underscore the film’s impact on both audiences and critics, highlighting its significance in contemporary cinema.

7 Reasons to Watch What Richard Did (2012)

1. Compelling Character Study
   • What Richard Did offers an in-depth exploration of its protagonist, Richard Karlsen. The film delves into his psyche, revealing the complexities of his character and the factors that drive his actions. This nuanced portrayal allows viewers to gain a profound understanding of Richard’s internal conflicts and motivations.
   • The character study is enhanced by Jack Reynor’s exceptional performance, bringing authenticity and depth to Richard’s character. Reynor’s portrayal captures the subtleties of Richard’s transformation, making his journey both compelling and relatable.
2. Exploration of Moral Complexity
   • The film presents a morally complex narrative, prompting viewers to question the nature of responsibility and the consequences of one’s actions. It challenges the audience to consider the gray areas of morality and the factors that influence ethical decision-making.
   • By avoiding clear-cut judgments, What Richard Did encourages critical thinking and reflection on personal values and societal norms. This approach fosters a deeper engagement with the film’s themes and characters.
3. Authentic Depiction of Youth Culture
   • Set in an affluent Dublin suburb, the film authentically captures the nuances of youth culture and the dynamics of teenage relationships. It provides a realistic portrayal of the social pressures and challenges faced by young individuals in a privileged setting.
   • The film’s attention to detail in depicting the subtleties of teenage interactions adds depth to its narrative, making the characters’ experiences resonate with authenticity.
4. Strong Performances
   • The cast delivers strong performances, with Jack Reynor’s portrayal of Richard being particularly noteworthy. His nuanced performance brings depth to the character, effectively conveying Richard’s internal struggles and transformation.
   • Supporting performances, including those by Róisín Murphy as Lara and Lars Mikkelsen as Richard’s father, add complexity to the narrative, enriching the film’s exploration of its themes.
5. Subtle and Engaging Storytelling
   • The film employs subtle storytelling techniques, allowing the narrative to unfold gradually and organically. This approach keeps viewers engaged, encouraging them to piece together the story and delve deeper into the characters’ motivations.
   • The restrained pacing and focus on character development create an immersive experience, drawing viewers into the world of the film and fostering a strong emotional connection with the characters.
6. Critical Acclaim
   • What Richard Did has received critical acclaim, holding a 91% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. This positive reception reflects the film’s quality and its impact on both audiences and critics.
   • The film’s success at the 10th Irish Film & Television Awards, including wins for Best Film and Best Actor, further solidifies its significance in contemporary cinema. These accolades demonstrate the film’s outstanding craftsmanship and the powerful performances that elevate its narrative.

7. Engaging Exploration of Social Themes
   • What Richard Did offers an insightful exploration of social dynamics, particularly the influence of privilege, peer pressure, and the expectations placed on young individuals. It delves into the complexities of navigating societal norms and personal responsibility, making it a thought-provoking watch.
   • The film challenges viewers to reflect on their own experiences with privilege and the impact of social pressures on decision-making. By exploring these themes with subtlety and depth, What Richard Did encourages a broader understanding of social dynamics and individual agency.

How Will You Feel After Watching What Richard Did (2012)?

After watching What Richard Did, you will likely feel a mix of introspection and emotional complexity. The film’s exploration of guilt, responsibility, and the consequences of actions will prompt you to reflect on your own moral values and the impact of your choices.

The subtle portrayal of Richard’s internal struggles will leave you contemplating the complexities of human behavior and the moral dilemmas that shape our lives. You may feel conflicted, as the film avoids clear-cut moral judgments, leaving you to form your own conclusions about Richard’s actions and their repercussions.

The film’s nuanced exploration of privilege and social dynamics will also encourage you to think critically about the societal pressures that influence behavior, particularly among young people. Ultimately, What Richard Did will leave you with a lingering sense of reflection, as you consider the film’s themes of guilt, redemption, and the complexities of human nature.