Gifted (2017) Review
Directed by Marc Webb, Gifted is a film about a single man, Frank Adler (Chris Evans), raising his niece, Mary (Mckenna Grace), after her mother died. Mary is a child prodigy and her grandmother and uncle starts a custody battle in court after realising her potential with the help of her teacher Bonnie (Jenny Slate).
The plot of the film is very unique and original from other films in this genre. Evans and Grace have an undeniable bond on screen which enhances their performances. The same for Evans and Slate. The film is easy to follow, funny and gives a true representation of self-sacrifice and selflessness that any adult goes through raising a child.
Overall, in my opinion, Gifted is sometimes predictable and cliche like but there were very original unique ideas and a good ending to wrap the film up. I wouldn't say it is child friendly as there is discussion about a character who committed suicide and the whole overall theme of a custody battle an average child under 12/13 wouldn't understand. I agree with the certificate of 12A as there are some upsetting and emotional scenes but throughout is filled with comedy and heart-warming ideas and lines. A minor character Roberta (Octavia Spencer) is introduced at the start and plays a nice third person viewpoint for the audience to understand what is going on, Spencer gets on with Evans well and the chemistry between Chris Evans and Jenny Slate, they had an off screen romance but split up after almost a year of being together, i thought the character's backstories were very well explained and interesting. Also it was interesting to see Chris Evans in a role that is very different to the usual Captain America.
If you a tired of the same old action superhero film or action or horror or drama, give this a watch for a break. DVD available now. A couple swear words but nothing nobody above 12/13 has heard. I recommend this film to everyone.
