The Gorge: A Genre-Bending Adventure That Struggles to Find Its Depth

The Gorge (2025)

"The Gorge," directed by Scott Derrickson, is a 2025 film that ambitiously melds elements of action, horror, science fiction, and romance. Starring Miles Teller as Levi Kane and Anya Taylor-Joy as Drasa, the narrative follows two elite snipers assigned to guard a mysterious abyss teeming with monstrous entities.

The film has elicited a spectrum of critical responses. Brian Tallerico of RogerEbert appreciates its genre-mashing potential, noting that while it may be uneven, it offers a "blast" of anarchic energy reminiscent of Sam Raimi's early work. Conversely, The Guardian criticizes the film for its lack of coherence, describing it as a "silly horror" that loses focus amid its romantic subplot. Similarly, Collider labels the movie as "predictable" and "silly," suggesting it attempts to tackle too much at once, resulting in a fun yet superficial experience.

Audience reactions mirror this divide. Some viewers commend the film's scenery, acting, and special effects, considering it a solid and straightforward story. Others, however, point out significant plot holes and describe the film as "ridiculous and lousy," indicating a more critical reception.

In summary, "The Gorge" aspires to offer a unique cinematic experience by blending multiple genres. While it succeeds in delivering moments of excitement and showcases the charisma of its lead actors, the film's inconsistent tone and underdeveloped narrative may leave some viewers wanting more. Available for streaming on Apple TV+, it presents an intriguing yet flawed journey into the depths of genre experimentation.