The Gorge is a new film from director Scott Derrickson & writer Zach Dean. Viewers might be familiar with Derrickson’s work on horror films such as Sinister & The Black Phone, while viewers might be familiar with Dean’s work on films such as The Tomorrow War & Fast X. The film stars Miles Teller, Anya Taylor-Joy, and Sigourney Weaver. When two highly-trained operatives are appointed to posts in guard towards opposite side of a secretive gorge, they must work together to keep the secret in the gorge.

The concept around this film was intriguing, but I can’t say I was looking forward to it. I love the cast and I especially love Derrickson’s works. When I saw that I had the opportunity to see it early, I knew I had to see it ASAP. To be honest, I also kind of needed to see it due to the hectic week that I am having. I completely understand why Apple TV+ is releasing this on the streamer over a theater rollout. The film isn’t perfect, but this would have been so much fun to see in the theater.

The first act, which accounts for about the first hour of the film is strictly dedicated to developing the two main characters played by Miles Teller & Anya Taylor-Joy. These two have amazing chemistry together. It’s such an intriguing concept to have them separated for so long, but still see each other. That’s what makes their encounter where they truly meet each other so special. I believe some viewers may be turned away by how long this takes. Like I said, it takes about an hour to get through this. I suppose it’s fitting for the Valentine’s Day weekend that may appeal to a larger audience.

After the first act is when the film kicks into high great. There’s also a lot of intrigue and buildup to the second act that makes it all pay off. I honestly thought the film actually took place in the apocalypse. Instead, the second act feels like the apocalypse where you spend time in this new world for 45 minutes that goes on longer than what it feels like. The second act is a lot of fun. When you are familiar with Derrickson’s work, he’s able to effectively display the horror genre to this. He does a great job at blending the genres, but its during the second act is where the film shines the most. The creatures are mainly CGI, but Derrickson does a great job making them look life-like with the movie’s stars.

Then, there’s the third act that feels like it goes on longer than it needs to. It tries its best to tie itself up properly without the need of a sequel. I personally don’t think it was all necessary, especially when the film feels like it already ends at the end of the second act. It’s like “oh, we’re still going. Got it.” Look, it’s still a lot of fun that somewhat makes up for paying for the subscription service.

Those are my collected thoughts on each act, but there are both pros and cons throughout the film. The exposition and character development can be a bit awkward at times. The green screen is just about as good as what you would think for a streaming movie. The collection of different genres, while fun, can be exhausting by the end.

If you were to ask me to rewatch it, I probably would. Teller & Taylor-Joy carry the film. It’s fitting to have these characters be these two highly-trained operatives. The film has more than enough buildup that makes you care about what happens to them when things go south. The mystery is done incredibly well. This is the kind of movie you need to go 100% blind into. I can see this easily be a big hit for the streamer that may just put confidence in them again to start putting their movies back in theaters.

I am not joking when I say the music reminded me so much of Nine Inch Nails I couldn’t believe I was right when I saw that Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross composed the soundtrack. How do these guys do it? They consistently make energetic soundtracks that are fitting for the tone. They do it so much that I wouldn’t be surprised if they were doing it in their sleep.

Overall, The Gorge was a surprisingly good time even with its flaws. I loved the main duo between their amazing chemistry and dedication to the action. The film does have a little bit of everything that I think will appeal to a larger audience, but I’d be interested to see if everyone will like that. The way the film plays out will keep viewers at least inrigued by what could happen next.

Coming to Apple TV+ February 14, 2025.

VERDICT: 3.5/5 (Pretty Good)