Media Blog Project 2

 The gorge 

In 2024, Scott Derickson directed an Apple TV+ film, which was released in 2025. It's an American science fiction romantic action film, The Gorge. Yes, it's a mouthful. With that being said, I was recently browsing and chose to watch The Gorge. It is one of the best movies I've seen come out recently. Personally, I chose it because Miles Teller was in it, and he is one of my favorite actors. Other than that, it was a movie I had no idea what the storyline was. I am not one for trailers, since I like to be surprised. I am very glad I made the choice to watch. 

If you'd like to watch the full trailer, here's a link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n5xgbJJxYI4 . 

This action film has it all. It has romance, it has comedy, it has fear. Anything you want from a film, it has. I’ll do my best not to spoil. The film follows the intense and emotionally charged story of two elite assassins, Levi (played by Miles Teller) and Hazel (played by Anya Taylor-Joy), who fall deeply in love despite the violent nature of their profession. Set in their world of secret missions, the movie explores the tension between love and violence. Showing the true struggle to escape a life defined by killing. With breathtaking action sequences, emotional depth, and a darkly romantic tone, The Gorge stands out as both a thriller while also having a "star-crossed lovers" trope. My post will dive into how the film balances its emotional core with stylized violence and what it says about connection in a morally saddened world. Upon its release on Apple TV+ on February 14, 2025, The Gorge became the platform's biggest movie launch, surpassing previous records. https://comicbook.com/movies/news/gorge-movie-views-record-streaming-apple-details/ 

Director Scott Derrickson has a rich background in horror and science fiction, with some well-known works including Doctor Strange, The Black Phone, The Exorcism of Emily Rose and Sinister. Anya Taylor-Joy, acclaimed for her role in The Queen’s Gambit, brings depth to her character Drasa, while Miles Teller, known for Whiplash and Top Gun: Maverick, portrays Levi with intensity. With every example listed, the actors fit very well into their roles, and the director kept true to his science fiction and romance patterns and brought it into this film as well.

The Gorge stands out in the action-romance genre by blending emotional intimacy with high-stakes suspense, setting it apart from more conventional entries like Mr. & Mrs. Smith or The Gray Man. The Gorge leans more into character development and emotional stakes. Its unique use of a literal gorge as both a physical and emotional divide gives it a symbolic depth. https://screenrant.com/the-gorge-movie-director-scott-derrickson-interview/ 

Although I can say it's just a movie, that is true; however, it is also a story about love being divided physically and emotionally, then being forced to overcome that for love. Which ultimately saves their lives in the end. It teaches the lesson that if you love someone, making a move or getting to know that person can save your life, whether it be a mental battle or the feeling of being alone. Making that choice can bring you a lot of fortune with that person. In today's world, we've been put behind a screen, so going out of our comfort zone can be a little frightening. Complimenting someone is easier behind a screen, while also being meaningless. If we can step out of our comfort zones like Levi and Hazel, maybe we can find something meaningful.

 

https://bleedingcool.com/movies/the-gorge-review-a-strange-romance-that-outshines-the-horror/ 

This film has its wide range of genres, romance, action, comedy, and science fiction, all of which I've already touched on. Now why am I’m bringing it up again? I say this because it reaches so many audiences. More specifically teens who enjoy action-packed and humorous films, as well as older audiences interested in romantic or sci-fi themes. The use of diverse characters and relatable emotional storylines makes it accessible to both casual viewers and fans of genre film. The film tends to avoid harmful stereotypes by creating well-rounded characters. For example, instead of the typical "damsel in distress" trope, the main female character is portrayed as strong, capable, and central to the story's resolution.  

This film has its fair share of strengths and not many weaknesses I can name. I am however bias because I did enjoy the film. I would say that the film has its strong mix of genres which keeps the film engaging, great pacing and character development, and strong visuals and effects enhance the sci-fi elements. Id say one weakness was the pacing, some aspects of the storyline felt rushed and couldve been explained in more depth. I would’ve enjoyed it still if it were longer. This movie even with its weakness was enjoyable and so memorable I thought about it for this project. Could grow to be one of my favorites. 

I take to the projects social media for behind the senses, actor interviews and little clips. Besides that I dont feel the need to dig and find every nook and cranny about the film. 

Overall the movie was a great piece of work form its directors, actors, and everyone who worked on the film. When completing this critique, Ive learned how much goes into a true critique. Ive learned more about the film by picking it apart and learning whos behind it and the genres at play. Ive grown to appreciate the film on another level. There are so many moving parts in a good film that make it good. It was cool being able to understand a little better.