A landmark post-war drama, hailed by audiences as one of the most emotionally powerful films ever made, is now available for viewers to stream at absolutely no cost.
A 'Devastating Treat' Available for Free
The film in question is the 1982 Oscar Award-winning adaptation of William Styron's best-selling novel, Sophie's Choice. While Steven Spielberg's seminal Holocaust film Schindler's List continues to be broadcast on traditional channels, this classic has found a new, free home on the UK streaming platform ITVX.
Set in 1947 Brooklyn, the story is told through the eyes of the young writer Stingo. He becomes entangled in the lives of his neighbours: a Polish Holocaust survivor, Sophie Zawistowska, and her volatile partner. As the narrative unfolds, the audience pieces together the fragments of Sophie's traumatic past and the ongoing torment it inflicts upon her present.
The Unspeakable Choice at the Film's Heart
The film is most famously remembered for the horrific, impossible decision forced upon Sophie during her time at the Auschwitz concentration camp. Portrayed in a career-defining performance by Meryl Streep, Sophie is made to choose which of her two children will be sent to their death, a moment viewers have described as 'gut-wrenching' and 'beyond brutal'.
This central, devastating scene has sparked considerable debate among film enthusiasts, with many arguing it makes the film's impact even more profound than that of Schindler's List. One viewer articulated this on Reddit, stating they found Sophie's Choice "much more emotionally upsetting", noting it felt "much more personal".
Audience Acclaim for a Cinematic Powerhouse
The response from audiences streaming the film has been one of overwhelming admiration for its harrowing power. Fans have heaped praise on the production, labelling it an "absolute classic" and "one of the best movies ever".
Comments from viewers highlight the film's enduring impact:
- "This movie is almost perfect, if there is such a thing."
- "A powerhouse movie, devastating and heartbreaking to the extreme."
- "Absolutely heartbreaking. Fantastic movie, truly heartbreaking, but very well made."
Particular acclaim is reserved for Meryl Streep's performance, with one admirer declaring it "quite possibly the best movie acting that I have ever seen". The film's masterful storytelling, plot twists, and unforgettable ending continue to resonate with new generations of viewers discovering it on streaming.
For those seeking a deeply moving cinematic experience, Sophie's Choice is available to stream for free now on ITVX.
