Directed by: Scott Derrickson
Distributed by: Apple TV+
Written by Nick McCann
68/100
It’s hard to be interested in films that may be indefinitely out of reach. Such is the case with Scott Derrickson’s latest high-concept sci-fi action thriller via Apple TV+.
As far as the concept goes, it starts with a refreshing feel. Watching our two characters stake each other out just as much as they watch the titular locale makes the early setup the film’s most compelling part. It calls to mind Francis Lawrence’s take on “I Am Legend,” building intrigue with a large canvas at an intimate level. Once we find out what’s in the gorge, the uniqueness devolves into standard practice. The script overexplains through dialogue when a proper use of setting and character interaction would have easily sufficed. It’s not the worst bit of hand-holding, but this particular time, the viewer should’ve been trusted more. An evident influence of Lovecraftian horror sort of makes up for it, and Derrickson does his best to imbue it with quality.
Miles Teller and Anya Taylor-Joy make the ride as decent as you’d expect. Their chemistry and bond feel strong even without speaking to each other. So strong that I think the film could’ve gone longer without them exchanging words! Screen time for each feels fairly balanced, never favoring one character over the other. By the time they come to romance one another, they’ll have you committed, even through the clunky exposition they have to endure delivering later. The rest of the cast functions as they should, with Sigourney Weaver being an ever-welcome sci-fi sight.
Derrickson does inject some energy into the film. The action scenes bring an enjoyable chaos between our two heroes and the gorge’s assortment of CGI monsters. While some practical effects would’ve sold the threat better, the mystery angle and overall art design keep it interesting. Derrickson conjures a couple of striking images in their own right, such as the twin watchtowers perched over the foggy gorge and what adorns the perimeter. Otherwise, what’s inside the gorge succeeds at answering “what if the cordyceps of ‘The Last of Us’ sprouted on the Monsterverse’s Skull Island?” An ominous and sometimes tender score by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross sweetens the deal.
There are many ways this film could’ve been better refined and come out all the better for it. While that might not have solved every problem, “The Gorge” gets by as is with a pair of talented actors, consistent action, and that initial allure of suspenseful discovery. Perhaps it’s wishful thinking to have “Hell In The Pacific” by way of “Aliens.” Yet audiences tend to be smarter than typically thought and deserve to be trusted to pick up on things. Restraint often makes for the most magnetic viewing.
“The Gorge” Trailer
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