The Gorge Review
REVIEW
✦
REVIEW ✦
Scott Derrickson's The Gorge, released on Apple TV+ this Valentine's Day, is a wild ride that defies easy categorization with its quirky blend of sci-fi, romance, action, and even a touch of horror elements. During this adventure, the film’s sheer ambition and the undeniable chemistry between its leads, Miles Teller and Anya Taylor-Joy, make it an entertaining and memorable experience for those seeking a solid popcorn flick.
Miles Teller and Anya Taylor-Joy in "The Gorge," now streaming on Apple TV+.
A Love Story Across the Abyss
The premise of The Gorge is immediately intriguing: two highly trained operatives, Levi (Teller) and Drasa (Taylor-Joy), are stationed on opposite sides of a vast, mysterious gorge. Their mission: to guard against an unknown evil lurking within. Communication is strictly forbidden, yet they find ways to connect, forging a bond through exchanged messages and shared glances. This unconventional courtship with a supernatural twist, forms the heart of the film.
The steady focus on the burgeoning romance is where The Gorge truly shines. Teller and Taylor-Joy are magnetic together, with their performances offering audiences a nuanced and engaging dynamic. They bring depth to their characters, making their forbidden love story all the more compelling and emotionally resonant. That being said, the chemistry between the leads elevates the stakes, making the audience genuinely invested in their relationship and rooting for them despite the seemingly insurmountable obstacles they face.
Genre-Bending and World-Building
As the interpersonal relationship between Levi and Drasa deepens, so does the mystery surrounding the gorge. The film gradually reveals the nature of the threat they face, introducing fantastical elements and creatures that initially defy natural explanation (though, it does offer its audience enough clues to figure things out early on). This genre-bending approach keeps the audience guessing, and while some might find the shifts in tone unexpected, others will appreciate the film's willingness to take risks. It's this blend of genres that makes The Gorge an exceptional popcorn flick—it's designed to entertain and surprise.
The world-building in The Gorge is also noteworthy. The film creates a unique and atmospheric setting, with the imposing gorge serving as a constant reminder of the danger lurking beneath. The visual effects, while contained to a few specific areas, are generally effective in bringing the film's fantastical elements to life. Topping off its solid visuals, the cinematography captures the eerie beauty of the gorge, enhancing the film's overall ambiance and immersing the audience in its otherworldly landscape.
A Satisfactory Dose of Action and Adventure
As the story progresses, the focus shifts from romance to action. Levi and Drasa find themselves caught in a battle for survival, forced to confront the creatures of the gorge and uncover the secrets of its origins. The action sequences are well-executed, with Teller and Taylor-Joy demonstrating their physicality and commitment to the roles. More importantly, The Gorge embraces the duo’s unique skills and penchant for action as an opportunity to fortify their bond—effectively tapping into charming depictions of romance at every turn.
The transition from romance to action is seamless, maintaining the film's pace and keeping the audience engaged. And throughout the story, the stakes are continuously raised, as the characters' development is intricately tied to the unfolding plot. Even during its more predictable or quirky moments, this balance of character-driven storytelling and thrilling action sequences makes The Gorge a well-rounded cinematic experience.
Score: 7/10
The Gorge is an ambitious and ultimately satisfying love story strengthened by Teller and Taylor-Joy’s unique on-screen chemistry.
