‘The Gorge’ (2025) Apple TV+ Movie Review - A Thrilling Descent into the Unknown

Scott Derrickson’s The Gorge is a strange, gripping, and unexpectedly heartfelt blend of action, suspense, and romance. It takes a high-concept premise—two operatives standing guard over a seemingly bottomless rift—and transforms it into something more than just another survival thriller. What begins as a tale of duty and isolation evolves into an intense, emotional journey that toys with genre conventions while keeping its characters at the heart of the experience.

Levi, played by Miles Teller, and Drasa, played by Anya Taylor-Joy, are two highly skilled operatives tasked with watching over the gorge. Their job is simple on paper: protect the world from whatever lurks below. But, as expected, things are never quite that easy. The two spend most of their time communicating across the chasm, separated by the very thing they are sworn to guard. This unusual dynamic forms the core of the story, as the pair go from wary colleagues to something deeper, all while the mystery of the gorge unravels around them.

The film’s setting is an eerie masterpiece. The gorge itself is treated as more than just a backdrop—it’s an entity, a void that swallows sound, light, and reason. The sense of scale is overwhelming, with sweeping shots emphasizing its unfathomable depth, making it feel both mesmerizing and terrifying. Isolation is baked into every frame, and Derrickson’s direction ensures that the gorge always presents a silent but ever-looming threat.

The chemistry between Teller and Taylor-Joy carries much of the film. Levi is the disciplined, hardened soldier, while Drasa brings a more enigmatic, almost mischievous energy. Their relationship evolves naturally, with tension giving way to trust, and eventually, something that resembles love. Their dynamic is a slow burn, built through stolen moments of humor and vulnerability amid the existential dread of their mission. It’s this human connection that elevates The Gorge beyond a simple action thriller.

Derrickson, known for his work in horror and suspense, applies those sensibilities effectively here. The film thrives on tension, often making the audience feel the weight of the unknown. What exactly lurks beneath them? Why does it need to be watched? The slow drip of information keeps the audience engaged without ever feeling frustratingly vague. The answers, when they do come, are both satisfying and unsettling, ensuring that the film doesn’t rely on cheap thrills or over-explanation.

Visually, The Gorge is stunning. The cinematography captures both the stark beauty and the oppressive loneliness of the landscape. The lighting, often playing with long shadows and muted colors, enhances the eerie atmosphere. Night scenes, in particular, are breathtaking, with the abyss swallowing what little light remains. The sound design is equally effective, using silence as much as noise to build suspense. Moments where the wind howls across the gorge or where a single rock tumbles into the darkness are just as nerve-wracking as any high-octane action sequence.

The supporting cast, while not given as much screen time, adds depth to the narrative. Sigourney Weaver’s presence as Bartholomew, a veteran operative, brings weight to the film, providing both wisdom and hints of the bigger picture. Her character’s interactions with Levi and Drasa hint at a long history of failures and sacrifices, making it clear that this mission is not as straightforward as it seems.

Of course, The Gorge isn’t without its flaws. While the pacing works well for tension-building, some might find it slow in parts, especially if they expect more action from a film with such a high-stakes premise. There are also moments where the script leans a bit too much into philosophical musings, which, while interesting, occasionally drag down the momentum. Some questions remain unanswered, which may frustrate those looking for a neatly wrapped-up conclusion.

The film’s score, composed by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, is a perfect match for the tone. The music doesn’t overpower the film but subtly enhances its emotional beats. Haunting, atmospheric compositions accompany the gorge’s eerie quiet, while more melodic pieces underline the growing bond between the leads. It’s a soundtrack that lingers, much like the film itself.

In the end, The Gorge is an ambitious and captivating film that blends genres in a way that feels fresh. It’s a thriller, a love story, and a meditation on isolation and duty, all wrapped in stunning visuals and anchored by two strong performances. While it may not be for everyone—especially those expecting a more conventional action film—it delivers something more thoughtful and unsettling.

For those who appreciate films that take their time to build tension, explore character relationships, and offer a world that feels both mysterious and vast, The Gorge is well worth the descent.

Final Score- [8/10]
Reviewed by - Anjali Sharma
Follow @AnjaliS54769166 on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times