Wednesday, May 10, 2017

Movie Review: Gifted


It's hard to imagine Chris Evans in an acting position these days outside of wearing the familiar red, white, and blue and wielding that iconic shield that he does so well as Captain America in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. He first started out being a charming funny guy who starred in the TV Series "The Opposite Sex", before plowing through comedic roles, serious action thrillers, and even a two time stint as Johnny Storm of the Fantastic Four when 20th Century Fox first brought the Marvel Superheroes team to life in the big screen during the early 2000's. Now that Evans has cemented his legacy as the Star Spangled Avenger, it's hard to imagine who else could follow in his footsteps... But the 35 year old American actor and filmmaker has aspirations beyond Cap, and his latest offering in cinema this year is a testament to doing something outside of the superhero suit.

GIFTED Trailer 1

Teaming up with "500 Days of Summer" and former "Amazing Spider-Man 1 and 2" director Marc Webb, Chris Evans is touching hearts worldwide by being a parent and guardian to a young and bright girl in his new film "Gifted" - which stars the young and amazing McKeena Grace as his niece with smarts that go beyond what a seven year old could learn in the classroom.


Seeing the film courtesy of 20th Century Fox Philippines, I can honestly say this film is one of those family drama films that have the right balance of funny heartwarming scenes and tender serious moments that will get audiences laughing and crying. Evans plays his laid back yet loving character Frank Adler well, and has great chemistry with McKeena's Mary - his niece who is a mathematical genius yet was raised by Frank to have a normal life beyond her gifts and smarts. Lindsay Duncan plays the ever persistent and estranged Evelyn Adlar - the mother of Frank who wants her grandchild to attend a prestigious school yet doesn't think of her life as "normal" at all. All this combined with superb supporting roles by Jenny Slate and Octavia Spencer make "Gifted" one of those films that's sorely underestimated and full of heart. It has a great cast playing in a low key plot of a film - and is not shy to show that it is powerful in conveying an emotional and heartfelt story anyone can relate to.

Gifted is currently playing in selected theaters courtesy of 20th Century Fox Philippines.

Rating - 4/5



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