Who knew Chris Evans could pull off an acting role beyond the superhero type? I always associated this actor with his popular role as Captain America, but after watching Gifted (2017), I'm impressed. This movie is not an action-packed thriller or one of those genres I enjoy but rather a moody, poignant family drama.
Frank Adler (played by Chris Evans) is a guardian to seven-year-old Mary Adler (played by Mckenna Grace), a gifted child. He's been taking care of her ever since her mother, Diane, committed suicide and passed away. Mary is a maths genius (college level) but Frank wants her to attend school and have a normal childhood instead of being homeschooled. She throws a little tantrum and he takes her to meet the school bus.
One her first day at public school, Mary is bored and confronts her teacher when asked, “What is 3 plus 3?” Her teacher realises she's brilliant and confronts Frank to let Mary attend private school for gifted children. Frank denies Mary's ability. When Mary defends her classmate from a bully in their school bus, the matter comes before the principal who contacts Frank's grandmother.
Frank gets into an argument with his mother when she suggests taking Mary away. A child custody battle ensues. Can Frank convince the court that he's the rightful parent to care for this young girl?
Review
Should a child who is more mature than her biological age be allowed to live a normal life or forced to grow up quickly? This is the central point of this family drama. I didn't expect this one hour and forty minutes film to hold my attention but the performance of the cast helped.
Gifted is a poignant drama that explores our humanity in the context of societal rules surrounding children and parenting. This plot is gripping and thoughtful. It's not one we see everyday in recent films but there's an important message in it.
The storytelling and directing are impressive with each scene crafted to convey the message of the film effectively. The cast's performance is outstanding. Evans’ role as the laid back guy who repairs boat, visits a bar on Friday nights and cares for his niece is endearing. I enjoy the bond between these two actors. Their chemistry and dialogues are easy, funny and believable. McKenna Grace projects the behaviour of an adorable child excellently.
As expected, Octavia Spencer embodies her role as the caring neighbour who speaks some sense into Frank and kind of mothers Mary. It's sweet. Her calm demeanour makes her fitting for this role and she plays it well. Lindsay Duncan portrays the wealthy, indifferent, and domineering mother and grandmother in an annoyingly effective manner. It's easy to dislike her character and root for the adorable Mary.
Though some of the scenes are predictable, there are heart-wrenching ones that makes the audience applaud Evans and Grace's performance. The only part I don't like and think is overplayed is the romance between Frank and Mary's teacher, Bonnie. Yes, they have chemistry but the audience can see this scene from a mile away. I find their romance improper considering Bonnie is Mary's teacher. Frank should be smart enough not to pursue anything with her but it's a contemporary movie and the audience might want a little spice so the romance gets a pass.
The courtroom dramas are riveting and well played. The message is clear—to allow every child, including the geniuses, have a normal childhood without disparity.
Overall, Gifted is a fine and thought-provoking family drama that I would recommend for all cinephiles. It speaks to the heart and inspires us to fight for the young ones. I'll give it 4 stars out of 5.
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Other images are screenshots from the movie
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