THE GIFT
A Paramount Classics release

review by Joseph B. Mauceri

SYNOPSIS: A young window, with two small children, helps make ends meet by doing tarot readings for the locals. She receives a warning from beyond the grave when her deceased grandmother tells her a storm is coming and her life is in danger. She is drawn into the confidence of an abused housewife, gives aid to an abused boy and becomes the only lead in a murder case. It is the storm that not only threatens her life, but her families.

REVIEW: Some may consider Sam Raimi's crossover film "A Simple Plan." However, THE GIFT combines his first love, horror films, with his remarkable talents as a filmmaker. He is as skilled at scaring an audience as he is at manipulating them. He puts care into crafting the performances and visuals so that the audience can bond with the characters.

One element that clearly illustrates this is the tarot deck utilized in the film. It is not a tarot deck but a deck used to test psychic abilities. It focuses the audience's attention on her "gift" and not the cards. Raimi enhances the point with different cuts and camera effects that personalize her experience.

THE GIFT at times relies on supernatural cliches. Raimi does his best to visually craft them so that they are not stale. Raimi knows how to bring the horror home. Given all the films to come out since "The Sixth Sense," this story seems to borrow moments from them all. There will be those who will of course make the comparison to "The Sixth Sense." It is too easy when you really consider the entire story. The film's narrative has more in common, as I've said, with "Midnight" and "Mocking Bird."

Strong characters brought to life by wonderful performances further elevate THE GIFT. Cate Blanchett is astounding as the women whose gift places her in the eye of the storm. Giovanni Ribisi is outstanding, as always, when it comes to creating a unique character performance. The most amazing is Keanu Reeves' brilliant performance as the redneck, wife abuser. It is above and beyond any of his roles to date. The film is chock full of cameo performances that make it truly entertaining and memorable.

THE GIFT, although amazing to watch and full of fine performances, lacks a robust feel to attract a large audience. It doesn't have the presence to compete in the Christmas/Academy race season. I feel that if it was released earlier or later, it could easily make a good showing, and might earn a nomination or two. Still, THE GIFT may not be "The Sixth Sense," but it is certainly cut from as fine a cinematic stock.

OFFICIAL WEB SITE:
http://www.thegiftmovie.com/

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