Review: Uncut Gems

Directed by Josh and Benny Safdie

Starring: Adam Sandler, Kevin Garnett, Lakeith Stanfield, Julia Fox, Idina Menzel.

The plot follows a Jewish jeweler and gambling addict (Sandler) in New York City's Diamond District, who must retrieve an expensive gem he purchased to pay off his debts.

Another A24 film, another Safdie brothers film, what's not to be hyped about? From the directors of Good Time, which is an intense film with a fantastic performance by Robert Pattinson, the Safdie brothers are definitely ones to watch under the A24 platform. After finally seeing it, I can say the film was definitely worth the watch, and Adam Sandler was definitely snubbed of an Academy Award nomination.

The Safdies incorporate similar a style from their previous films. It's intense, it's nerve-wracking, and it'll keep you anxious from the beginning, to even after the film ends. Adam Sandler was remarkable, and proves that if put in the right film with the right directors and material, he can do wonders (like his performance in Punch Drunk Love by Paul Thomas Anderson). Although his character is flawed in the script, he is likeable enough for us to relate and feel for him. The supporting cast was great too, with a great debut by Julia Fox, and an impressive performance by NBA athlete Kevin Garnett who plays a fictional version of himself. As mentioned before, the Safdie's direction and visual style remains the same, into something they already have mastered, a genre of high anxiety chaotic cinema.

The cinematography fits the tone of the film, as it is beautiful at times and resembles the palette of a gem, and in times gritty and dirty to match the environment the narrative is being told in. The music by Daniel Lopatin (Oneohtrix Point Never) is incredible yet again and also fits that chaotic tone the film showcases.

In conclusion, it is a thrilling ride of a film, and one that must be watched to fully experience Adam Sandler's impeccable performance, as well as the incredible direction and visual style of the Safdie brothers.

9.5/10

#FilmReview #2020