Discovering the story of Ruth Bader Ginsburg through film is a powerful way to connect with her legacy. Whether you seek inspiring drama or in-depth documentary, options abound to explore the life and work of this iconic Justice.
Finding Ruth: A Guide to Streaming, Renting, and Buying
How to watch Ruth Bader Ginsburg movies depends primarily on your preferred format and the film in question. The two most prominent works are the biographical drama On the Basis of Sex (2018) and the documentary RBG (2018). Streaming platforms are often the most convenient option, but rental services and physical media offer alternative routes to viewing. Let’s break down where you can find these essential films.
On the Basis of Sex: A Dramatic Portrayal
On the Basis of Sex, starring Felicity Jones as a young Ruth Bader Ginsburg, dramatizes her early legal battles fighting for gender equality. Several streaming platforms periodically offer this film as part of their subscription library. Keep an eye on services like:
- Netflix: While availability fluctuates, On the Basis of Sex often appears on Netflix.
- Amazon Prime Video: Check if it’s included with your Prime subscription or available for rent/purchase.
- Hulu: Similarly, Hulu’s movie selection varies, so check for On the Basis of Sex regularly.
- Other Streaming Services: Vudu, Google Play Movies & TV, YouTube Movies, and Apple TV+ often offer the film for rent or purchase.
Beyond streaming, consider these options:
- Renting: Amazon Prime Video, Vudu, Google Play Movies & TV, YouTube Movies, and Apple TV+ are excellent resources for renting the film.
- Purchasing: These same digital platforms offer the film for purchase, allowing you to own it permanently in your digital library.
- Physical Media: Look for the Blu-ray or DVD at retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Target. Public libraries are also a valuable resource for borrowing physical copies.
RBG: A Documentary Deep Dive
RBG, directed by Betsy West and Julie Cohen, provides an intimate and insightful documentary look into Ginsburg’s life, career, and unexpected pop-culture icon status. This film often enjoys broader availability than On the Basis of Sex.
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Streaming Platforms:
- Hulu: RBG is a more consistent fixture on Hulu’s streaming platform.
- CNN: As a CNN film, RBG sometimes streams on CNN’s streaming platforms (if you subscribe).
- Other Services: As with On the Basis of Sex, check Vudu, Google Play Movies & TV, YouTube Movies, and Apple TV+ for availability.
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Renting and Purchasing: The same digital rental and purchase options apply to RBG as outlined above.
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Physical Media: RBG is widely available on Blu-ray and DVD at major retailers and through library borrowing programs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about watching films about Ruth Bader Ginsburg:
FAQ 1: Is it legal to stream these movies for free?
No. Streaming movies from unauthorized sources is illegal and can expose you to malware and viruses. Always use reputable streaming services or purchase/rent the films legally.
FAQ 2: Can I watch these movies outside the US?
Availability varies by region. Check the streaming and rental services available in your country to see if On the Basis of Sex and RBG are offered. You may need to use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to access content from other regions, although this may violate the terms of service of some streaming providers.
FAQ 3: What order should I watch On the Basis of Sex and RBG in?
There’s no strict order. RBG provides a comprehensive overview of Ginsburg’s life and career, making it a good starting point. On the Basis of Sex focuses on a specific period in her early career, offering a dramatic interpretation of those events. Watching RBG first may provide context for appreciating the nuances of On the Basis of Sex.
FAQ 4: Are there any other movies or documentaries about Ruth Bader Ginsburg?
While On the Basis of Sex and RBG are the most prominent, other documentaries feature Ginsburg. Look for documentaries focusing on the Supreme Court or legal issues she championed, as she often appears as a commentator or subject. News archives and interviews are also valuable resources.
FAQ 5: Are these movies suitable for children?
Both films are generally considered suitable for older children and teenagers. RBG is a documentary and primarily consists of interviews and historical footage. On the Basis of Sex deals with legal issues and courtroom drama, which may be less engaging for younger viewers. Parental guidance is always recommended.
FAQ 6: Can I find these movies at my local library?
Yes, libraries are an excellent resource. Many libraries carry both On the Basis of Sex and RBG on DVD and Blu-ray. Check your local library’s catalog or visit in person.
FAQ 7: How often do streaming platforms change their movie selections?
Movie selections on streaming platforms are constantly changing. Licensing agreements expire, and new content is added regularly. Check the “leaving soon” section on streaming services to stay informed.
FAQ 8: Do I need a special device to watch streaming movies?
Most devices can stream movies. Smart TVs, computers, tablets, smartphones, and streaming devices like Roku, Apple TV, and Chromecast are all compatible. You’ll need a stable internet connection.
FAQ 9: Is there a director’s cut or extended version of either movie?
No director’s cut or extended version exists for either On the Basis of Sex or RBG. The theatrical releases are the standard versions.
FAQ 10: Where can I find bonus features or behind-the-scenes content for these films?
Check the Blu-ray or DVD releases. These often include bonus features such as deleted scenes, interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage. Digital platforms may also offer bonus content with a purchase.
FAQ 11: Can I download these movies for offline viewing?
Some streaming platforms allow for offline downloads. This feature is usually available on mobile apps and requires a subscription. Check the specific platform’s terms of service for download limits.
FAQ 12: Are there subtitles or closed captions available?
Yes, both On the Basis of Sex and RBG typically offer subtitles and closed captions. These features are usually accessible through the playback settings on streaming platforms, rental services, and physical media. They ensure accessibility for viewers who are deaf or hard of hearing.