The Gorge is better in theory than execution. Although ambitious, its mixture of genres feels overstuffed. This is most noticeable in the drama, which lacks character development. Had their relationship sparked from specified traits, the contrived romance would be more forgivable. Weak protagonist arcs are also produced because they grow from vague starting points. This is worsened by the blunt dialogue, which is either heavy exposition, corny tropes, or waxing poetic. Meanwhile, despite some vulnerability as well as natural charm, the acting is flat with mediocre chemistry, one-note range, and questionable accents. Thus, The Gorge's interesting premise becomes muddled.
Technically, The Gorge is similarly jumbled. Its direction feels formulaic yet tonally inconsistent. Despite solid craft, the cinematography often looks drab. Its editing provides brief stylistic choices, but its momentum drags within an overlong runtime. Adequate genre elements embody the soundscape. Combining discordant scoring with obvious needle drops, its music is a bit erratic. Although there's world-building, the production design appears artificial and sometimes monotonous. Its cast's star power is squandered. Though decent quality, the effects' overreliance on CGI creates a glossy sheen. Overall, The Gorge can't bring its pieces together, resulting in a mixed bag.
Writing: 4/10
Direction: 4/10
Cinematography: 6/10
Acting: 5/10
Editing: 4/10
Sound: 7/10
Score/Soundtrack: 6/10
Production Design: 6/10
Casting: 7/10
Effects: 6/10
Overall Score: 5.5/10
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