The Gift

A nice little present, though Hřebejk tackled a very similar theme with much more effect and grace in Honeymoon. I can't fault the film in terms of craftsmanship, and I give it a thumbs up for that one brilliant jump-scare, but the ending didn't make my jaw drop, it simply fizzled out. A good debut nonetheless, Joel Edgerton. (04/10/2016)

The Gift is a solidly developed psychological drama that is, however, dragged down to the level of a forgettable genre movie by its wannabe shocking delivery of the final point. The clever work with the characters’ psychology would have made the film stronger and more unique if it were more subtle (i.e. if it didn’t underestimate the viewers and shock them with a mere disturbing suggestion). (09/22/2015)

Simon Says: go watch this movie. The trailer isn't too exciting, because it doesn't have much. There is no blood, no murders or violence, so this is a light thriller, more of a psychological drama, but intelligently written and directed, and it revels in original twists and even has two solid scares. I was disappointed by the ending, which leaves the viewer with a lot of unanswered questions, I personally don't like that, but thumbs up for the revenge being different from what we've been used to so far. On the plus side, it was difficult to pick a good guy: one is a badass the other is a weirdo. A very high quality film. 80%. (09/09/2015)

A well-constructed story that relies on the fact that it's never really clear who the asshole is and who isn't. That is also true for the ending. Good progression that doesn't go to extremes, but primarily a well-executed psychological game that shows Edgerton's talent in multiple ways. Just looking at him will give you chills. And surprisingly, also Bateman. (11/09/2015)

Joel Edgerton has made a smarter film than could have been expected. Great psychology and plasticity of characters, excellent situational scenes and fantastic actors without exception. Pity about the literal twist, which is impressive but still too explicit. Had it been more open and just hinted at, it could have been one of the highlights of the year, as the subliminally unsettling tension of something evil and unspoken is felt even through the screen. (12/12/2015)