The movie Live by Night has a runtime of 2 hours and 9 minutes (129 minutes). This period drama, based on Dennis Lehane’s novel, immerses viewers in the Prohibition-era underworld of Boston and Florida.
A Journey Through Time: Understanding Live by Night‘s Duration
Live by Night, directed by and starring Ben Affleck, is a complex narrative that spans several years and locations. Understanding its length allows viewers to properly prepare for the emotional and historical journey they’re about to embark on. The film weaves together themes of organized crime, love, betrayal, and ambition, all contributing to its considerable, yet engaging, runtime. Knowing the runtime allows viewers to better plan their viewing experience and decide if they have enough time to fully immerse themselves in the story.
The Director’s Cut: Is There a Longer Version?
While the theatrical version of Live by Night is 2 hours and 9 minutes, a director’s cut has not been released. The theatrical release is the only commercially available version of the film. This information is essential for fans hoping to experience even more of the narrative that Affleck crafted.
Delving Deeper: Frequently Asked Questions About Live by Night
To further enhance your understanding of Live by Night, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions. These FAQs cover various aspects of the film, from its production to its reception and availability.
FAQ 1: Where Can I Watch Live by Night?
Live by Night is available on various platforms. You can rent or buy it digitally through services like Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies, Apple TV, and Vudu. Check availability with your local cable or satellite provider’s on-demand services. It’s also sometimes available on streaming services like HBO Max or Netflix, depending on their current licensing agreements. Physical copies on Blu-ray and DVD are also widely available.
FAQ 2: What is Live by Night Based On?
Live by Night is based on the 2012 novel of the same name by Dennis Lehane. Lehane is a renowned author known for his crime fiction, including books like Mystic River and Gone Baby Gone, which have also been adapted into successful films.
FAQ 3: Who are the Main Actors in Live by Night?
The film features a stellar cast led by Ben Affleck as Joe Coughlin. It also stars Elle Fanning as Loretta Figgis, Brendan Gleeson as Thomas Coughlin, Chris Messina as Dion Bartolo, Sienna Miller as Emma Gould, Zoe Saldana as Graciella Corrales, and Chris Cooper as Chief Irving Figgis.
FAQ 4: What is the Story of Live by Night About?
Live by Night tells the story of Joe Coughlin, the son of a Boston police captain, who becomes embroiled in organized crime during the Prohibition era. He moves from Boston to Florida and becomes a powerful figure in the rum-running and gambling business, facing off against rival gangs and navigating complex moral dilemmas. The narrative explores themes of loyalty, ambition, and the corrupting influence of power.
FAQ 5: Was Live by Night a Critical Success?
Live by Night received mixed reviews from critics. While the film’s production design and performances were praised, many felt the narrative was convoluted and lacked the emotional depth of Lehane’s novel. It holds a rating of 31% on Rotten Tomatoes, with the consensus stating that it is a stylish but ultimately underwhelming adaptation.
FAQ 6: Did Live by Night Perform Well at the Box Office?
Unfortunately, Live by Night was considered a box office disappointment. It earned approximately $22.7 million in North America and $10.4 million internationally, for a worldwide total of $33.1 million against a production budget of around $65 million. This makes it a significant commercial failure.
FAQ 7: What is the Setting of Live by Night?
The film is primarily set in Boston and Tampa, Florida, during the 1920s and 1930s. These settings are crucial to the story, as they represent the rise of organized crime during Prohibition and the changing social landscape of the era.
FAQ 8: What are the Key Themes Explored in Live by Night?
Live by Night explores several key themes, including the corrupting influence of power, the complexities of morality in the criminal underworld, the clash between personal ambition and familial loyalty, and the societal impact of Prohibition. The film also touches upon themes of redemption and the consequences of choices made in the pursuit of wealth and status.
FAQ 9: What is the Tone and Style of Live by Night?
The film has a gritty and stylish tone, reminiscent of classic gangster films. It employs a dark and moody visual style, showcasing the bleak realities of the criminal underworld. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the audience to immerse themselves in the story’s atmosphere and complexities.
FAQ 10: How does Live by Night Compare to Other Crime Films?
Live by Night draws comparisons to other classic crime films like The Godfather and Goodfellas, but lacks the same level of critical acclaim. While it shares similar thematic elements and visual styles, it is often criticized for its convoluted plot and lack of character depth. It’s a solid entry in the gangster genre, but doesn’t reach the heights of the most celebrated films.
FAQ 11: Is Live by Night Suitable for Children?
Due to its violence, language, and mature themes, Live by Night is not suitable for children. It is typically rated R for strong violence, language throughout, and some sexual content. Parental guidance is strongly advised.
FAQ 12: Are There Any Sequels or Spin-offs Planned for Live by Night?
As of now, there are no sequels or spin-offs planned for Live by Night. Given its box office performance and mixed critical reception, it is unlikely that any further adaptations or continuations of the story will be produced. However, Dennis Lehane has written other novels that could be adapted into films in the future.