The gripping horror thriller Buried, featuring Ryan Reynolds in what critics have hailed as a "nightmarish" and "incredible" lead performance, is now available for streaming on ITVX. This intense film, set against the backdrop of Iraq, has captivated audiences with its claustrophobic narrative and edge-of-your-seat suspense.
A Harrowing Tale of Survival
Released in 2010, Buried stars Ryan Reynolds as Paul Conroy, a civilian truck driver in Iraq who becomes a victim of insurgents. After an unspecified period of time, Paul awakens to find himself buried alive in a coffin, equipped with only a lighter and a cell phone. As his oxygen supply diminishes and the battery on his phone fades, he must confront overwhelming panic, despair, and delirium while hoping for a rescue that may never arrive.
Inspired by Real-World Fears
While not directly based on a single true story, the film draws inspiration from the terrifying realities of kidnappings and hostage situations, particularly in conflict zones like Iraq. It aims to authentically portray the harrowing experiences faced by many, blending fictional storytelling with realistic tension to create a visceral viewing experience.
Critical Acclaim and Fan Reactions
On Rotten Tomatoes, Buried has earned an impressive 87% audience score, with fans praising its immersive and thrilling nature. One review highlights, "This movie is outstanding. All the claustrophobic action makes you feel like you are in the coffin with Ryan Reynolds himself. You will be thinking about what this guy just went through long after watching." Another viewer noted, "Not bad. Will have you at the edge of your seat and the end is a bit of an eye-opener – good watch."
A third review emphasized Reynolds' performance, stating, "This is highly engaging and well-paced for a movie that takes place inside of a box. Ryan Reynolds acted his head off in this movie to keep you entertained. You probably get to see every angle of his head you can imagine!" Further praise came from a fan who said, "Ryan Reynolds gives the claustrophobic performance of a lifetime, allegedly at the cost of some of his own mental health, but the final product is both a well-shot tight-space thriller and a strongly written observance of the value of a ransomed person."
Supporting Cast and Production Details
The film also features Samantha Mathis as Paul's wife Lisa, Stephen Tobolowsky as Alan Davenport, Robert Paterson as Dan Brenner, and José García-Pérez as Jabir. Despite its single-set location, the movie manages to maintain engagement through tight pacing and strong character development, with Reynolds appearing in every frame.
Streaming Availability on ITVX
Buried is now accessible on ITVX, offering viewers a chance to experience this critically acclaimed thriller. ITVX Premium provides ad-free streaming of on-demand content, including Hollywood blockbusters and British box sets, with an annual plan costing £59.99 after a seven-day free trial.
As one fan summarized, "This single-set location thriller will give you intense claustrophobia, panic, and thrills... in a good way. It's amazing how they can make a full-length film set entirely in a box this engaging. This is probably Ryan Reynolds' best performance." For those seeking a suspenseful and thought-provoking watch, Buried on ITVX delivers a powerful cinematic experience.
