Gerald's Game (2017)
2017
103 Minutes
When her husband's sex game goes wrong, Jessie -- handcuffed to a bed in a remote lake house -- faces warped visions, dark secrets and a dire choice.
User Review
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Gerald's Game behaves much like a prostitute, heavily focused to begin with but then fails to shut up towards the climax. That may not be the most appropriate simile, yet it accurately illustrates the well-intentioned promiscuity and rapid downfall of this psychological thriller. Surprisingly, another decent Stephen King adaptation following on from last year's 'It' remake. A couple stay in a remote house for a weekend to rekindle their marriage. What initially seemed to be an innocent sex game rapidly turns into an exercise for survival. A psychologically stimulating thriller that explores the theme of sexual trauma and how suppressing bad memories can slowly degrade your mind into madness. A plot that remains dark, twisted and visceral til the third act, utilising an intelligent narrative structure that seamlessly blends backstory with the main scenario to create character development. Howard and Flanagan's screenplay feels very much like a visualisation of the novel, with extensive one take dialogue sequences that are just as descriptive as the book. Flanagan's astute direction manages to conjure up a few scares along the way, particularly with the ominous "Moonlight Man", whilst embedding a few gory scenes for good measure (urgh, that hand scene...). Cugino deserves this film. For me, she is an underrated actress and required an engaging story that would allow her to show off her acting talent. Incredible performance, also wonderfully supported by Greenwood. Unfortunately all good things must come to an end, and the third act creeps on in and whispers "I'm going to ruin this film for you". What a mess! Endless narration to nearly tie up any and all gaps that the plot may have conceded to, leaving little to no imagination for the viewers. The scares, suspense and tension were instantly diminished, leaving a bland aftertaste. Shame, as the film that preceded this uninspired conclusion was stupendously exciting accompanied by talents both on and off screen. If anything, it's made me realise to never use handcuffs during sexual shenanigans...or atleast bring pink fluffy ones!0 member like this review.
