The 2020 Quibi series, Survive, starring Sophie Turner and Corey Hawkins, initially posed a unique challenge for viewing due to Quibi’s short-form content model; however, it has since been repackaged and made accessible. Now available on the Roku Channel, Survive can be watched as a feature-length film or in its original, episodic format, offering a thrilling and deeply emotional journey through a plane crash survival scenario and its aftermath.
Accessing Survive: Your Viewing Options
The fate of Survive was tied to the fate of Quibi. When the platform folded, the series’ availability became uncertain. Thankfully, its value didn’t go unnoticed.
From Quibi to Roku: A Streaming Migration
Survive found a new home on The Roku Channel, a free, ad-supported streaming service available on Roku devices, Roku TVs, and through the Roku website and mobile app. This transition marked a significant shift, allowing a wider audience to experience the series that was initially limited to Quibi subscribers.
Choosing Your Viewing Format: Film or Episodes
The Roku Channel offers Survive in two primary formats:
- As a Single Film: This repackaged version consolidates all the original Quibi chapters into a feature-length experience, streamlining the narrative for a more traditional viewing experience. This is ideal for viewers wanting a concentrated dose of drama and suspense.
- As Episodes: If you prefer the original Quibi format, The Roku Channel also allows you to watch Survive as a series of shorter episodes. This allows for breaks and a more gradual build-up of suspense, mirroring the initial intended viewing experience.
Availability and Regional Restrictions
Availability of Survive on The Roku Channel may vary depending on your region. While it’s widely accessible in the US, Canada, and the UK, viewers in other countries should check the Roku Channel’s availability in their region or explore alternative methods like purchasing digital copies through platforms like Apple TV or Google Play, if available.
Understanding the Narrative: Trauma and Resilience
Survive is more than just a survival story; it’s a deep dive into trauma, mental health, and the power of human connection.
Lana’s Struggle with Depression
Sophie Turner portrays Lana, a young woman struggling with severe depression and suicidal thoughts. The initial scenes are deliberately unsettling, reflecting Lana’s internal turmoil and setting the stage for her journey. The plane crash becomes a catalyst, forcing her to confront her will to live in the face of overwhelming odds.
The Unlikely Bond with Paul
Corey Hawkins plays Paul, the co-pilot who survives the crash alongside Lana. Injured and struggling with his own demons, Paul becomes Lana’s unlikely companion and a source of support. Their shared trauma forges a strong bond, and they rely on each other to navigate the harsh wilderness.
Facing the Wilderness: Physical and Emotional Challenges
The survival aspect of the series is both visceral and realistic. Lana and Paul face extreme weather conditions, hunger, injuries, and the constant threat of predators. These physical challenges are intertwined with their emotional struggles, forcing them to confront their pasts and find a reason to keep fighting. The series doesn’t shy away from depicting the psychological toll of survival.
Beyond the Plot: What Makes Survive Worth Watching
While the survival plot is compelling, Survive stands out for its performances and its unflinching portrayal of mental health.
Sophie Turner’s Powerful Performance
Turner delivers a tour-de-force performance as Lana. She captures the character’s vulnerability, strength, and gradual healing with remarkable authenticity. Her portrayal of depression is nuanced and impactful, adding a layer of depth to the survival narrative.
A Dialogue on Mental Health
Survive doesn’t shy away from addressing difficult topics like depression, suicide, and PTSD. The series aims to destigmatize mental health issues and encourage open conversations about these challenges. While the content can be triggering, it’s handled with sensitivity and a genuine desire to raise awareness.
The Visuals and Sound Design
The series utilizes striking visuals and immersive sound design to create a sense of atmosphere and heighten the tension. The stark landscapes of the wilderness contrast with the intimacy of the characters’ interactions, creating a compelling visual experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: Is Survive a movie or a TV series?
Survive was originally a TV series created for Quibi, designed to be watched in short installments. However, it has since been repackaged as a feature-length movie and is also available on The Roku Channel in its original episodic format.
FAQ 2: Is Survive free to watch?
Yes, Survive is available for free on The Roku Channel, which is an ad-supported streaming service. You will need a Roku device, Roku TV, or access to the Roku website or app to watch it.
FAQ 3: What is Survive about?
Survive tells the story of Lana (Sophie Turner) and Paul (Corey Hawkins), the only two survivors of a plane crash in a remote, snow-covered wilderness. They must rely on each other to overcome the elements and their personal demons to stay alive.
FAQ 4: Is Survive suitable for all audiences?
Survive contains mature themes, including depression, suicide attempts, and graphic depictions of survival situations. It is not suitable for young children or viewers sensitive to these topics. Viewer discretion is advised.
FAQ 5: Does Survive have a sequel?
As of now, there are no plans for a sequel to Survive. The series was designed as a standalone story.
FAQ 6: Where else can I watch Survive besides The Roku Channel?
Depending on your region, you may be able to purchase or rent digital copies of Survive through platforms like Apple TV or Google Play. Check the availability in your area.
FAQ 7: Is Survive based on a book?
Yes, Survive is based on the novel of the same name by Alex Morel. The series is a faithful adaptation of the book, though some details may differ.
FAQ 8: What are the main themes explored in Survive?
Survive explores themes of trauma, mental health, resilience, the will to live, and the power of human connection. It delves into the psychological impact of surviving a traumatic event and the challenges of overcoming personal demons.
FAQ 9: Is Survive a realistic portrayal of survival?
While Survive is a fictional story, it strives for realism in its depiction of survival situations. The series consults with experts on survival techniques and accurately portrays the physical and emotional challenges of being stranded in the wilderness.
FAQ 10: What makes Sophie Turner’s performance in Survive stand out?
Sophie Turner delivers a powerful and nuanced performance as Lana, capturing the character’s vulnerability, strength, and gradual healing with remarkable authenticity. Her portrayal of depression is particularly impactful and adds depth to the narrative.
FAQ 11: Is Survive triggering for viewers with mental health issues?
Survive contains mature themes related to mental health, including depression and suicide attempts. It may be triggering for some viewers. If you have a history of mental health issues, it is recommended to watch with caution and seek support if needed.
FAQ 12: What is the overall message of Survive?
Despite its dark and challenging themes, Survive ultimately offers a message of hope and resilience. It suggests that even in the face of overwhelming adversity, the human spirit can endure and find a reason to keep fighting. The series highlights the importance of human connection and the power of support in overcoming trauma.