Director: Benny Safdie, Josh Safdie
Screenplay: Ronald Bronstein, Benny Safdie, Josh Safdie
Starring: Adam Sandler, Julia Fox, Idina Menzel, LaKeith Stanfield, Keith William Richards
Country: USA
Running Time: 135 min
Year: 2019
Adam Sandler’s modern depiction of a desperate gambling addict jeweller eager to have it all not only provides audiences with a stark tale, but it showcases a different side to the actor’s on-screen talents, which might surprise many movie fans.
Before watching the film, you’d be forgiven for thinking Sandler’s only gift was great comic timing. However, Uncut Gems proves he is a gifted actor worthy of all the acclaim that came his way following the movie’s release in 2019.
Through the chaos of the gripping plot, you cannot help but feel for Howard, as his marriage is almost over and debt collectors are closing in, risking everything he has worked for over the years. Within the first few minutes, you will forget you are watching one of the greatest comedy actors and instead will believe Sandler is the pathetic, manic man he portrays.
Yet, his actions on-screen are often deplorable, as he is a lawbreaker and an adulterer, reminiscent of some of the best anti-heroes on-screen, such as Tony Soprano (The Sopranos) and Walter White (Breaking Bad), making you wonder if the film would be better as a limited series.
A Career-Defining Performance for Sandler
Most of Adam Sandler’s films haven’t demanded much attention in the past, as you could easily watch them while scrolling through your phone or playing NetBet games, but Uncut Gems is different from anything he has played before.
Sandler has built a career creating unique comic personas in films such as Happy Gilmore (1996), The Waterboy (1998), and The Wedding Singer (1998). However, he proves he can create unique, complex yet dramatic characters in Uncut Gems, showing critics and movie lovers that he is more than a one-trick pony and that 2002’s Punch-Drunk Love, for which he also recieved acclaim, wasn’t just a fluke.
Drama is hard, but comedy is harder, and Adam Sandler is proof of how much comedic talent is often underestimated on screen. It almost makes you think he took on the role of Howard to prove his acting ability to the world, ensuring he finally receives the recognition he deserves. He’s not the first actor to do so, as Sandra Bullock’s talents were undervalued until she appeared in The Blind Side (2009), which earned her a Best Actress nomination at the Oscars.
You’ll forget all about Sandler’s goofy personas when watching this raw, gritty portrayal of a flawed, desperate man eager to overcome debt and addiction, battling the urge to secure his “next big score” and often failing miserably along the way. It is arguably Sandler’s most human role to date, and it will make his most loyal fans want him to veer away from comedy and into drama over the coming years.
The Safdie Brothers Delight Again
While Adam Sandler shed his former comic persona in Uncut Gems, the Safdie Brothers leaned into their signature style of creating compelling yet unique character-oriented stories in this fast-paced flick.
Similar to Good Time (2017), the movie offers plenty of grit, action, and energy that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. However, Uncut Gems arguably provides the most tension the brothers have ever delivered on screen, proving they have grown in confidence behind the camera.
You cannot help but feel stressed watching Howard’s life spiral out of control. Despite rooting for him throughout the movie, it often seems almost inevitable that his many bad decisions will catch up with him.
Yet, the film likely isn’t for everyone, as its intense, non-stop pace might feel draining by the end of the movie. While it isn’t always comfortable to view, it is no doubt entertaining. If you have the patience and stamina for an energetic crime thriller, you will be rewarded with an explosive ending that will linger in your mind long after the movie is over. Make it your next watch on Netflix.