Three Identical Strangers is a 2018 documentary directed by Tim Wardle that explores one of the most fascinating and unsettling stories in the history of genetics and psychology. If you're wondering where to see Three Identical Strangers, you have several reliable options to stream or rent this critically acclaimed film.
Where to Stream Three Identical Strangers
The documentary is available on multiple streaming platforms, depending on your region and subscription services. Here's where you can currently watch it:
Streaming Platforms
- Hulu - Available with subscription; the most reliable option for US viewers
- Amazon Prime Video - Can be rented or purchased with additional channels subscription
- Apple TV - Available for rent or purchase
- Google Play Movies - Available for rent or purchase
- Vudu - Available for rent or purchase
- YouTube Movies - Available for rent or purchase
What Makes Three Identical Strangers Worth Watching
The documentary tells the remarkable story of triplets - Bobby Shafran, Eddy Galland, and David Kellman - who were separated at birth and adopted by different families. In 1980, they were accidentally reunited as teenagers, discovering an identical bond that captivated media worldwide. However, as the film unfolds, a darker reality emerges about the secretive nature of their adoption and the psychological experiments that may have influenced their lives.
The Ethical Questions Raised
The film doesn't just tell a reunion story; it exposes the unethical practices of Dr. Peter Neubauer, a prominent child psychiatrist, who deliberately separated the triplets as part of a nature versus nurture study. The brothers were placed in families with different economic backgrounds - working-class, middle-class, and affluent - without their parents being informed about the other siblings or the study's true purpose.
Rental and Purchase Options
If you prefer not to rely on changing streaming service libraries, purchasing or renting the documentary gives you permanent access:
| Platform | Rent Price | Purchase Price |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon Prime Video | $3.99 | $12.99 |
| Apple TV | $3.99 | $12.99 |
| Google Play | $3.99 | $12.99 |
| Vudu | $3.99 | $12.99 |
| YouTube Movies | $3.99 | $12.99 |
Why This Documentary Matters
Three Identical Strangers isn't just about coincidence or family reunion—it's a profound examination of ethics in scientific research. The brothers' story highlights how vulnerable children were once treated as experimental subjects without consent or consideration of their wellbeing. The documentary received numerous awards and nominations, including the Sundance Film Festival Special Jury Prize, cementing its place as essential viewing for anyone interested in ethics, psychology, or American documentary filmmaking.
Emotional Impact and Critical Reception
Audiences consistently describe the experience of watching Three Identical Strangers as emotionally charged and thought-provoking. The brothers' genuine bond, their shared mannerisms despite being raised apart, and their eventual discovery of the truth create a narrative that is both heartwarming and deeply troubling. Critics praise the film for its ability to balance personal storytelling with larger institutional critique.
Accessibility and Availability
Availability may vary by region, so it's always worth checking your local streaming services or digital rental platforms. In the United Kingdom, the film has been available on BBC iPlayer and Sky Documentaries at various points. Canadian viewers can often access it through Crave or Amazon Prime Canada. International viewers should check regional availability on JustWatch or similar tracking services to find current streaming options in their country.
Whether you choose to stream, rent, or purchase, Three Identical Strangers remains one of the most compelling documentaries about human nature, scientific ethics, and the resilience of family bonds despite overwhelming obstacles.
