#REVIEW: “THE GIFT”

Review by Justin Waldman for Mr. Will Wong

Acting certainly is not new territory for Joel Edgerton, however in the realms of directing and writing, we have yet to see his full potential. His first time directing and writing a Feature in The Gift, proves to be quite excellent – a solid Psychological Thriller that will keep you at the edge of your seat until the unnerving finale.

The Gift focuses on newlywed couple Simon (Jason Bateman) and Robyn (Rebecca Hall) as they settle in to their new house. However shortly after moving into their new house, as they are shopping Gordo (Joel Edgerton) spots Simon and Robyn, and tries to reacquaint himself with an old friend. However, not everything is as it seems, as there is some history between Simon and Gordo. As Gordo crosses the boundaries of friendship, it pushes Simon and Robyn to their breaking point and Gordo is no longer wanted in their lives. This is where things take a turn for the worst, as Simon’s past starts to unravel with Gordo trying to make amends for the past. The psychological twists and thrills grow more intense and frightening as the stakes continue to rise throughout the Film.

What makes The Gift phenomenal is the performances. Edgerton is superb as the creepy blast from the past that is ready to put things aside from him, but refuses to take anymore disrespect from anyone. He nails the role with such conviction and confidence that when the Movie intensifies, the suspense will  raise the hairs on your arms. Bateman is also fantastic as he plays a uncharacteristic serious role for the Film, he still has a little fun to it but delivers quiet the punch to his performance. Lastly, Rebecca Hall’s performance is spectacular as the overly- cautious wife who is trying to decode the gifts left behind at her house that were intended for her husband, and his mysterious past.

The Gift is the gift that truly keeps giving, it is suspenseful as well as intense and mysterious in the best ways possible. The Film lends itself to mislead the Audience at twists and turns, and in the finale takes one final jab at the Audience that is completely unnerving, that it will leave you thinking about it for days. This is  not to be missed.

D Films release The Gift in theatres Friday, August 7, 2015.