From the up-and-coming crime thriller miniseries "Black Rabbit" to the 2024 holiday thriller hit "The Carry-On" and, of course, the Emmy-winning "Ozark," Jason Bateman has been leaning into dramatic roles lately. Yet, I’ve always associated him with his charming smile and boyish good looks in comedies, whether it’s his brief but hilarious turn in "Up in the Air" or his unmistakable dry wit in "Arrested Development."
That’s why seeing him as Simon in Joel Edgerton’s 2012 psychological thriller "The Gift" was so fascinating. Bateman expertly blends two familiar sides of his persona: his disarming confidence with an unsettling coldness. Written, co-produced, and directed by Edgerton, "The Gift" remains one of my favorites years later, packed with rewatch value.
What is 'The Gift' about?
The story begins with Simon (Bateman) and his wife, Robyn (Rebecca Hall,) considering a new home after moving to Simon’s hometown. Their realtor points out the aesthetics and architecture, but the music hints at an underlying tension.
Rebecca Hall deserves a nod here. Her heart-on-her-sleeve performance captures the unease simmering in the couple’s relationship, even during seemingly mundane moments like touring the house.
Soon, a trip to a home goods store shakes things up. Simon runs into a former schoolmate, the socially awkward Gordo (Joel Edgerton). Gordo approaches with an odd mix of familiarity and creepiness, prompting Simon to introduce him to Robyn. She, ever polite, asks for Gordo’s number so they can invite him over for dinner — a decision that slowly unravels their lives.
Initially, Gordo’s gestures seem harmless: gifts, helpful tips, even cleaning supplies for their oversized front windows. He charms Robyn into giving him a tour of the house. But his presence grows increasingly intrusive, and it’s only a matter of time before Simon’s carefully constructed world begins to crack. An uncomfortable encounter over a note on the fridge — labeling him “Gordo the Weirdo” — sets off a tense chain of events that forces Simon’s true nature into the light.
Why you should stream 'The Gift'
Bateman’s Simon starts as the picture of the unsuspecting, successful man, unfairly targeted by a stranger from his past. But as Robyn uncovers more of the truth, his darker, more calculating side emerges. From business-like precision to deceit within his own home, Simon is far less charming than he first appeared.
The film’s brilliance lies in its moral ambiguity. There’s no clear hero: Robyn seeks the truth, Simon hides it, and Gordo is neither villain nor victim—his interference is as provocative as Simon’s past actions.
It also helps that "The Gift" is Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, racking up a 91% score with 197 reviews.
We all have people from our school days who left an imprint, for better or worse. Most of us eventually move on. But what if someone can’t? The Gift explores this question with chilling complexity. Bateman delivers moments of raw emotional range, rom fury to vulnerability, making this film a standout in his career.
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