The words Adam Sandler and “good movie” are typically not seen together.
That’s why when the trailer for Sandler’s latest movie, “Uncut Gems,” first released, it was met with skepticism. The skepticism was only amplified when it was revealed to be a dramatic role.
Although Sandler has successfully dipped into dramatic roles in the past, his track record with movies, especially this past decade, have not inspired confidence.
“Uncut Gems”, however, might be the crown jewel of Sander’s career.
The first thing that stands out is the setting of the movie. The movie is set in 2012 New York and follows an owner of a jewel store, Howard (Sandler), who is in debt to a lot of people. Eventually he thinks he has a way to pay off his debt; an uncut black opal gem pulled out of mines in Ethiopia.
There’s a lot of background noise and people talking over each other throughout the movie. While at times it’s occasionally distracting and annoying, it does a great job at establishing the setting.
Another standout point in the movie is the acting. Howard, despite being the main character, is not a good guy. He lies, cheats and steals in every sense of the word. Despite this, Sandler does a great job at making the audience root for him.
Kevin Garnett also does a great job playing himself in the movie. The “celebrities playing themselves” trope in movies is old, tired and adds almost nothing to the movie aside from cheap gags. This is not that type of role.
Even though Garnett has about 15 minutes of screen time, in every scene he’s in he stands out. He and Sandler play off each other so well with the dialogue; it’s a shocker this is Garnett’s first movie role.
Idina Menzel does a great job at playing Howard’s estranged wife, Dinah. Dinah has nothing but disgust and malice toward Howard, and her expressions really show it.
Julia Fox stars as Howard’s mistress. Her character is great comedic relief in this movie and when she appears in tense scenes, they’re played perfectly.
The directing in this movie is also top notch. The special effects at the beginning and end of the movie are done perfectly, and the camera work is amazing.
Unsteady shots are used when Howard is in trouble or panicked, and steady shots are used for when he is confident or steadfast in a decision. Add that with the cutting from different perspectives at the climax and end of the movie.
Overall, “Uncut Gems” was a standout movie. Although definitely not for everyone, it is a movie that is crafted in such a great way the audience can’t help but get invested in it.
This movie gets an 8/10.
Teren Kowatsch can be reached at [email protected].