A forgotten Russell Crowe epic that sparked debate upon its release is finding new life now that it’s streaming – and is being hailed as one of the most underrated films of the 2010s.
Noah, directed by Darren Aronofsky and released in cinemas back in 2014, holds a solid 75% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes and, over time, has built a loyal fanbase of viewers who view it as a bold and misunderstood classic.
Loosely inspired by the biblical tale of Noah’s Ark, the film stars Crowe as the titular prophet, called by visions to build a vessel that will withstand a divine flood meant to cleanse the Earth.
But Aronofsky, known for thought-provoking films like Black Swan and The Fountain, approaches the source material from a mythological, philosophical angle – with supernatural elements, environmental themes, and deeply human dilemmas about free will, morality, and justice.
One Rotten Tomatoes user wrote: “Absolutely underrated movie. Most people watch it expecting it to be a Christian movie, that’s why they get frustrated. It is not biblically accurate nor does it try to be. It treats the Christian mythology as Hollywood has always treated others like Greek mythology. This is an absolutely astonishing drama and a very interesting iteration on the myth.”
The cast features a number of high-profile stars, including Jennifer Connelly as Noah’s wife Naameh, Emma Watson as Ila, Anthony Hopkins as Methuselah, and Ray Winstone as the film’s antagonist Tubal-cain. Aronofsky’s version also introduces the Watchers – fallen angels rendered as towering rock-like creatures.
One reviewer called it: “Epic. It will not be surpassed on any grounds – writing, cinematography, visual effects, cast interpretation, and authenticity. Extremely fascinating and keeps you wanting to see what happens next.”
Despite its blockbuster budget and a box office return of over $350 million worldwide, Noah received a mixed reaction from audiences upon release.
Much of the criticism came from viewers expecting a more traditional religious adaptation, while others praised it as a daring reimagining.
A decade later, many are reconsidering the film through a different lens. One fan wrote: “My personal favourite biblical film of all time that isn’t named The Ten Commandments. From the striking visuals to the acting and the fallen angels called the Watchers, this is a wonderful adaptation… Just brilliant.”
Noah is now available to stream on Amazon Prime Video.