Movie Review: The Gorge (2025)

Introduction

Scott Derrickson’s The Gorge is an ambitious and unique blend of cosmic horror, action, suspense, and romance, creating a cinematic experience that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant. Starring Miles Teller as Levi and Anya Taylor-Joy as Drasa, the film follows two elite operatives stationed at a mysterious gorge, where they must prevent unknown and potentially terrifying threats from escaping. As their mission unfolds, so does their unexpected emotional bond, adding depth to the intense, genre-defying narrative.

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Story & Themes (4.5/5)

The premise of The Gorge is immediately intriguing, placing Levi and Drasa in an isolated and dangerous environment where their only directive is to guard an enigmatic, potentially supernatural force. The movie masterfully builds suspense, revealing key information at just the right moments. The gorge itself is almost a character, serving as both a physical and psychological battleground.

One of the film’s strengths is how it balances its horror elements with a deeply personal story. Themes of duty, sacrifice, and survival are woven seamlessly into the broader narrative, elevating it beyond a typical monster thriller. Levi and Drasa’s evolving relationship is integral to the story, reinforcing the emotional weight behind their mission and the stakes involved. While some might argue that their romance could have used more development, it remains engaging enough to enhance the story rather than detract from the tension.

The pacing is generally strong, keeping the audience engaged throughout. However, the third act stumbles slightly, losing some momentum before regaining its footing for a satisfying conclusion. Given the richness of its world-building, The Gorge could have easily been expanded into a limited series, allowing for deeper exploration of its mysteries.

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Tone & Execution (5/5)

What sets The Gorge apart is its fluidity in tone. The film shifts effortlessly between horror, action, and romance, never feeling disjointed. This is largely due to the strong writing, well-timed transitions, and the undeniable chemistry between Teller and Taylor-Joy.

Derrickson’s expertise in horror is evident throughout, as the film maintains an unsettling atmosphere even in its quieter moments. The horror elements are effectively executed, blending cosmic dread with grounded, personal stakes. At the same time, the film doesn’t shy away from intense action sequences or heartfelt moments, ensuring a well-rounded experience.

The romance is particularly crucial in keeping the audience emotionally invested. While the characters’ bond develops relatively quickly, Teller and Taylor-Joy sell their connection through nuanced performances, making it feel authentic and necessary to the story’s emotional core.

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Visuals & Action (4/5)

Visually, The Gorge is stunning. Sweeping landscapes contrast sharply with the claustrophobic terror within the gorge, reinforcing the sense of isolation and danger. The cinematography effectively heightens the tension, making the setting feel as oppressive as the threats lurking within.

The monster designs are likely to divide audiences. While some may appreciate their unique and unsettling appearance, others might find them lacking the weight or realism expected from a horror-action hybrid. Nonetheless, they serve the narrative well, adding to the film’s eerie, otherworldly tone.

The action sequences are well-choreographed, with a level of realism that suggests careful military consultation. The movements and combat tactics feel authentic, enhancing the film’s credibility. However, the third act leans slightly more into stylized action, which, while entertaining, may break immersion for some viewers.

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Conclusion: A Unique and Thrilling Experience (4.5/5)

The Gorge stands out as a rare film that successfully blends multiple genres without losing focus. Its ability to transition between horror, suspense, action, and romance makes it a compelling watch, supported by strong performances from Teller and Taylor-Joy. While the third act experiences minor pacing issues and the monster designs may not appeal to everyone, these are minor flaws in an otherwise impressive film.

For fans of genre hybrids that prioritize both thrills and emotional depth, The Gorge is a must-watch. It leaves a lasting impression, not just as a high-stakes thriller but as a film that explores love and survival in the face of cosmic horror.