The reason that I don't go and see many horror films, is not because I am a big wimp. It is because we have rarely had a successful film from this genre in the last decade or so.
But despite being billed as a horror, it is actually more of a classic thriller. This is one of the few genres that should be done a lot more often.
Thankfully, one director Dennis Villeneuve seems to be the modern thriller director of our time after making Prisoners.
With The Gift, we have Joel Edgerton running the show in his directorial debut. With many people associating him with his acting and notable performances in Warrior, The Great Gatsby and Zero Dark Thirty, I can confidently say that Edgerton has given us a thriller that can get us talking about it long after seeing it. Even with it's stylistic cinematography and wonderfully paced story, this is one film that does make you think about your own history.
The film's story examines something that I think we can all relate to and that will make this gripping viewing for everyone.
The performances are strong, particularly from Jason Bateman who is in a rare serious role. I remember seeing him in Disconnect and he seems more comfortable in drama than comedy in my opinion.
Bateman has great moments throughout and is a wonderful choice to lead this film. Rebecca Hall as the leading female does some good work and has a believable on-screen relationship with Bateman.
Edgerton is cast in his own film in the main supporting role. It looked quite a challenging one. However, Edgerton's approach managed to give us such an intriguing and unpredictable character. You really struggle to see what is wrong with his character, which makes him essential viewing anytime he appears on the screen.
The tension is really well judged. There are a couple of big 'jump out of your seat' moments, and the Hitchcockian style soundtrack really amplified these particular moments.
Unlike most big studio thrillers, the pace never really has any explosive moments. Where something you think would not happen, does, and there are some great twists. I thought I had the finale of this film sorted, but it went somewhere I did not think it would go to.
Edgerton's craft is very impressive to watch for a debut. As director, writer, co-producer and actor, The Gift really shows of all his talents in every department.
He has created a thrilling modern suspense that had constantly nervous, fearful for the leading characters and was never bored
With the cinematography almost looking a Fincher feature, there is a certain eeriness that seems understated, and the surprise moments really sneak up on you.
There is a lot to like about this. If it was done by anyone else, this would still be a solid job. But as it is a directorial debut, I think extra Brownie points are to be given.
It is very well made with a lot of realness that toys with your emotions. It is consistent in its tone, theme and pace.
I am now really excited for anything else Edgerton is involved in as director, producer or writer. He has proved himself and have more success behind the camera then in front of it.
Rating: 7/10
No comments:
Post a Comment