On Valentine’s Day this year, while studios and streaming platforms generally opted for unconventional romantic narratives, Apple TV’s “The Gorge” found itself presenting a more traditional take on romance in an unusual setting. Directed by Scott Derrickson, known for his work on “The Black Phone” and “Doctor Strange,” the film tells the story of two snipers, Levi and Drasa, who are stationed near a deadly gorge filled with creatures, combining elements of thriller and romance.
The film begins with a Covid-era backdrop where Levi, portrayed by Miles Teller, takes on a solitary job guarding the gorge. The initial setup offers a light-hearted tone as Levi prepares for a year-long stint, only to be interrupted by the appearance of Drasa, played by Anya Taylor-Joy. Though the film starts with an intriguing premise, it soon shifts towards a more conventional romantic angle as the two characters engage in flirtatious communication over the gorge, reminiscent of early-2000s indie films.
As the couple breaks the rules to make connections, such as zip-lining to share a meal, the film’s tension dissipates. The narrative ensnares them in a series of predictable plot developments, leading them into the gorge itself and revealing an underlying conspiracy. Despite its attempts at crafting a thrilling atmosphere, the execution comes across as lackluster, with comparisons made to a bland sequel of a popular video game franchise like “Resident Evil.”
The script, penned by Zach Dean, suffers from a lack of depth, offering little motivation for viewers to invest in the relationship between the protagonists. While the actors have the potential for chemistry, their performances feel flat, as if they’re merely going through the motions without genuine engagement. Despite the film’s impressive visuals and technical aspects, including a solid score by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, it ultimately presents a familiar, formulaic story that risks falling into obscurity on the streaming platform.
In summary, “The Gorge” attempts to blend romance with action and thriller elements, yet stumbles in character development and plot originality. The film leaves audiences hoping for a more captivating narrative amidst its intriguing premise. As viewers look for fresh takes on the romance genre, there remains potential for more innovative storytelling that breaks free from traditional molds, emphasizing the importance of character and emotional depth in capturing audience attention.