Gifted is a compelling story centered around Frank Adler (Chris Evans) and his exceptionally bright niece, Mary (Mckenna Grace). Mary is a math prodigy, a trait inherited from her late mother, Frank’s sister. Before her tragic death, Frank’s sister entrusted Mary’s care to him, with the specific wish that Mary be raised differently from how she herself was raised by their demanding mother. Frank dedicates himself to providing Mary with a normal childhood, a stark contrast to the life of academic pressure his sister endured. Roberta (Octavia Spencer), their neighbor and close friend, becomes an integral part of their unconventional family, offering Mary companionship and support.
Movie poster for Gifted featuring Chris Evans and Mckenna Grace, highlighting the film's focus on family and a gifted child.
The narrative takes a turn when Frank enrolls Mary in public school, a decision Roberta initially advises against. Mary’s extraordinary intellect quickly becomes apparent, surpassing even her teacher’s expectations. However, her social development lags behind her academic abilities. Despite recommendations to place Mary in a specialized school for gifted children, Frank resists, determined to prioritize her normalcy. This decision, however, reaches Evelyn Adler (Lindsay Duncan), Frank’s mother and Mary’s grandmother, a formidable and brilliant woman who believes Mary should pursue the mathematical legacy her mother left behind. A legal battle ensues, pitting Frank’s desire for Mary’s normal upbringing against Evelyn’s ambition to cultivate her granddaughter’s genius. The film poignantly explores who truly knows what’s best for Mary and whether anyone can truly “win” when Mary’s future hangs in the balance.
My Thoughts on Gifted
From the outset, the trailer for Gifted sparked my interest with its seemingly original premise. Indeed, the film delivers a plot that feels refreshingly unique, standing apart from typical Hollywood formulas. Gifted distinguishes itself by prioritizing character development and meaningful dialogue, elements that are increasingly rare in contemporary cinema. As a viewer who appreciates films driven by well-developed characters and realistic exchanges, Gifted resonated with its portrayal of flawed yet relatable individuals and authentic conversations.
However, my emotional connection to Gifted wasn’t as profound as I anticipated. While Mary’s situation—a child grappling with loss and the weight of extraordinary talent—is inherently sympathetic, I found it challenging to fully empathize with her. Her character, while realistically portraying the complexities of a child prodigy, comes across as somewhat guarded, socially awkward, and at times, difficult to warm up to as she navigates the complexities of childhood and adult expectations.
Similarly, Frank, despite his selfless dedication to raising Mary, doesn’t embody the idealized hero archetype. He is flawed and realistically portrayed, perhaps a welcome departure from conventional heroic figures. This realism, while appreciated, might also contribute to a slight emotional distance.
Interestingly, Evelyn Adler, Frank’s mother, emerged as one of the most compelling characters in Gifted. Initially presented as the antagonist to Frank’s wishes, Evelyn transcends the typical villainous role. As the film progresses, glimpses into her motivations reveal a more nuanced character. We begin to understand the depth of her desire for Mary to fulfill her daughter’s unrealized potential. While her actions may stem from a degree of self-interest, it becomes evident that she genuinely cares for Mary’s well-being, albeit through a different lens than Frank’s.
Octavia Spencer’s portrayal of Roberta, Mary’s neighbor and friend, is another highlight. Spencer consistently delivers compelling performances characterized by a no-nonsense demeanor and strength, and Roberta is no exception. She provides Mary with both the friendship and the maternal affection that she needs, acting as a crucial anchor in Mary’s life.
At its core, Gifted grapples with the fundamental question of how to nurture a child with exceptional abilities. A particularly impactful moment arises when Frank articulates his reasoning for keeping Mary in a regular public school, despite its limitations in catering to her genius. He acknowledges the missed opportunities but emphasizes the paramount importance of Mary developing into a kind and compassionate person, prioritizing character over solely cultivating her gift. This sentiment, challenging conventional societal values, is both thought-provoking and personally resonant, prompting reflection on what truly defines a fulfilling life.
Despite not fully meeting my initial emotional expectations, Gifted remains a film I wholeheartedly recommend. Its exploration of complex questions and its portrayal of believable characters make it a memorable and worthwhile cinematic experience. Gifted is readily available on DVD and various streaming platforms, including Google Play, Apple, and Vudu.
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