Directed by Scott Derrickson
Starring Miles Teller, Anya Taylor-Joy, Sigourney Weaver
Streaming on Apple TV+
In the vast landscape of streaming content, Apple TV+ has carved a niche with its high-quality sci-fi series. However, its foray into original sci-fi films has been less consistent. “The Gorge,” directed by Scott Derrickson, aims to bridge this gap by blending action, romance, and horror into a single narrative. While the film boasts strong performances from its leads, it ultimately succumbs to a predictable plot that undermines its initial promise.
The story centers on two elite snipers, Levi (Miles Teller) and Drasa (Anya Taylor-Joy), assigned to guard opposite sides of a mysterious gorge. Their mission: prevent any entity from escaping its depths, which is a bit different from stopping anyone from getting in, as you would expect. Isolated in their respective towers for a whole year, the two form a connection through written messages, defying strict orders against communication. This clandestine relationship adds a human touch to the otherwise bleak and suspenseful setting.
Teller and Taylor-Joy deliver compelling performances, infusing depth into characters that could have easily been one-dimensional. Their chemistry is palpable, providing a solid foundation for the film’s romantic subplot. Taylor-Joy, in particular, shines as Drasa, bringing warmth and complexity to her role. Their interactions elevate the narrative, making their burgeoning relationship both believable and engaging. Though the laying out of the backstory for Drasa seems to have been given focus, nothing other than war stories comes from Levi.
Despite the strong character work, “The Gorge” struggles with a thin and foreseeable plot. The initial intrigue of the mysterious gorge and the unseen threats it harbors quickly gives way to conventional action sequences and genre clichés. As the story progresses, it becomes evident that the film relies heavily on familiar tropes, leading to a climax that offers little in terms of surprise or innovation. The concept of a coalition formed in the time period the film is set in also feels somewhat far-fetched, asking for a suspension of disbelief beyond what even the sci-fi setting allows.
Sigourney Weaver steps into the role of a corrupt private contractor overseeing the operation, adding a layer of intrigue and tension. Her portrayal is commanding, effortlessly capturing the ruthless pragmatism of someone profiting from prolonged conflict. However, while her presence adds gravitas, her character’s motivations and arc feel underdeveloped, ultimately serving as little more than a narrative device to push the leads toward their inevitable rebellion.
Visually, the film benefits from Derrickson’s direction, with atmospheric cinematography that captures the isolation and danger of the setting. The score, composed by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, adds a haunting layer to the narrative, enhancing the tension and emotional resonance. However, these elements are not enough to compensate for the formulaic storyline that unfolds. The action sequences are fun, the effects are passable, though you have to wonder: in an area where you can end up like them, would you walk into the valley of them…
As an addition to Apple TV+’s lineup, “The Gorge” showcases the platform’s commitment to exploring diverse genres and narratives. While it may not reach the heights of the service’s standout series, it offers a blend of action and romance that could appeal to viewers seeking light, escapist entertainment, and it’s at least something new for us in an otherwise slow year so far. However, for those craving originality and depth, the film may fall short of expectations.
In conclusion, “The Gorge” is a film that starts with promise, bolstered by strong performances and atmospheric direction. Yet, it ultimately treads familiar ground, delivering a story that is as predictable as it is polished. While it serves as a testament to Apple TV+’s willingness to experiment with genre-blending narratives, it also highlights the challenges of crafting a compelling story that transcends conventional formulas.
