'The Gift' is a suspenseful mystery thriller that marks the directorial debut of the star of the film, Joel Edgerton (Warrior). While many directorial debuts falter, this one is wrapped nice and tight with a shiny red bow on top and not a single noticeable wrinkle to be found.
A director's first job is to get the greatest performances out of his or her actor's and Edgerton not only directs himself wonderfully, but Jason Bateman (Horrible Bosses) and Rebecca Hall (The Town) also turn in incredibly intense and dramatic performances. All three of these experienced actors' performance's blew me away and exceeded my modest expectations. It wouldn't be fair to say that just ONE of them is the standout because they are all extremely captivating in their respective roles. Edgerton's Gordo is one of the best characters that 2015 has offered, Bateman, who is usually known for his comedic roles turns in an awe-inspiring dramatic performance, and Rebecca Hall completes the package as a woman who is smart but left so deep in the dark she just doesn't have a clue anymore. All of their performances are must-see performances and a big reason why you should be checking out this film as soon as you can.
What really drew me into 'The Gift' was the cinematography by Eduard Grau, the shot selection from Edgerton behind the camera, and the screenplay, which was written by Edgerton as well. The cinematography in 'The Gift' really sets the tone for this film from the opening frame and forward and it's a feast for your eyes. The shot selection by Edgerton intensifies each scene and gives it more meaning and depth to each moment. Time and time again I was reminding myself that this was a first time director who was directing as if he'd been doing this for decades. The screenplay, this screenplay is ALL kinds of smart, it doesn't treat it's audience like idiots and we are given a quality screenplay that provides some of the most amazing final moments of a film this year. Much like the shot selection by Edgerton I kept finding myself blown away time and time again by the writing, it's unbelievable.
Is there a wrinkle in this gift? Probably not. Is it a perfect film? Of course not, but if there is one thing that kind of stood out it was the transition between the second and third act. There seemed to be a lack of emotion for a string of scenes, but even then the film still keeps you wrapped up nice and tight, never losing interest for a second. (I'm basically grasping at straws here, this film really is that good) This isn't an over-exaggeration, this directorial debut is superb on nearly all levels. Blumhouse Productions, who has produced films like 'Insidious' and 'Whiplash' keeps their budgets small and deliver quality level films. Other studios should begin to take notes and realize you don't need 150 million dollars to make one of the year's best movies.
To slap the final piece of tape on this review for 'The Gift' I would have to say that you should check out 'The Gift' as soon as you possibly can. It will likely be out of theaters soon, so head to your nearest cinema and buy a ticket! You will not be disappointed in this mystery thriller that will keep you guessing and on the edge of your seat until it's final moments. Watch out for Edgerton in the next few years as a premiere director on smaller budget films.
I give 'The Gift' an 8.8/10