The Gorge
March 23, 2025
STREAMING REVIEW:
Apple TV+;
Action;
Rated ‘PG-13’ for intense sequences of violence and action, brief strong language, some suggestive material and thematic elements.
Stars Miles Teller, Anya Taylor-Joy, Sigourney Weaver.
The Gorge immerses viewers in a frigid, isolated world where nature and nightmare collide, a testament to the power of practical effects and rising dread. This terrifically executed hybrid of horror, action, science-fiction and romance casts Miles Teller as Levi and Anya Taylor-Joy as Drasa, two sentinels perched on opposite cliffs of a fog-choked chasm. Their silent vigil, enforced by strict orders of no communication, hints at a dark secret simmering beneath the surface. Symbolically, each side of the gorge represents a distinct mindset: Drasa’s eastern outpost, with its Russian-led influence, and Levi’s western station, reflecting a U.S.-centric perspective. Each guard, seemingly stationed for a year, lives a partially sustainable lifestyle, emphasizing their profound isolation.
Initially, The Gorge presents itself as a portal to the unknown, a “door to hell” guarded by these isolated figures. Like many, I initially imagined a creature of myth, a modern-day Creature From the Black Lagoon, lurking in the mist. However, the film cleverly pivots, revealing a far more disturbing truth. The monstrous “Hollow Men” are not supernatural horrors but the consequence of a disastrous bio-chemical experiment. A ruined missile silo, a cloud of radioactive fallout, and a forced fusion of human and organic life have spawned these terrifying beings. This narrative twist, a chilling commentary on the perils of unchecked scientific ambition, is delivered with a palpable sense of unease.
Patrick Dean, the writer, channeled the anxieties of pandemic isolation into a narrative exploring themes of human frailty and forced separation. Director Scott Derrickson, known for cultivating unease in his past films, translates Dean’s vision into a visually arresting experience. Through Skydance Media’s expertise, producer David Ellison ensures the film’s high production standards. While the narrative doesn’t specify a location, the external gorge shots, filmed in Norway, lend an air of stark, remote authenticity. The viewer can almost feel the penetrating cold, intensified by the meager fires and the desolate alpine flora. The industrial, concrete sentry towers, serving as living quarters, add a layer of chilling, believable detail.
Teller delivers a compelling performance as Levi, with his vulnerability and hardened edge being evident. Taylor-Joy is equally captivating as Drasa, her subtle accent adding to her character’s mystique. Her action sequences, primarily self-performed, display fierce dedication. Sigourney Weaver’s presence evokes the iconic Alien feel, underscoring the film’s effective creature design and genuine scares.
The unexpected and intensely believable romance between Levi and Drasa truly elevates The Gorge. Amid the terror and isolation, their connection feels authentic and heartfelt, adding a crucial layer of emotional depth. This romance isn’t a forced subplot but an integral part of the story, providing a human counterpoint to the horror.
The literal game of chess within the narrative, at least to this viewer, added a subtle layer of symbolic depth. It felt like an ironic nod to The Queen’s Gambit and Anya Taylor-Joy’s role, mirroring Sigourney Weaver’s possible Alien reference.
The film’s commitment to detail is remarkable. Everything feels authentic, from the meticulously crafted Hollow Men and insect swarms to the weathered towers and the believable weaponry and its realistic use. Even the oppressive fog and biohazard elements contribute to the immersive atmosphere. Unlike films that rely on darkness to conceal flaws, The Gorge confidently showcases its practical effects. The Jeep scaling sequence and the zip-line action are particular highlights, demonstrating the film’s dedication to visceral action.
The Gorge is a masterfully crafted blend of suspense, horror, action, science fiction, and romance that delivers a visceral and unforgettable experience. Despite its intense violence and unsettling imagery, the film’s well-developed story, exceptional performances and genuine emotional core make it a standout. Remarkably, The Gorge never feels bloated or overlong, a rare feat in today’s cinematic landscape. It genuinely scared and surprised me at several moments. Its chilling and thought-provoking conclusion lingers, solidifying The Gorge as a truly memorable cinematic achievement. The “Hollow Men” concept, drawing inspiration from T.S. Eliot’s poem, which describes a purgatory-like existence, adds a subtle but powerful layer of thematic depth.