Apple TV+ has achieved a significant milestone with its latest film, The Gorge, which has rapidly become the platform’s most successful movie to date. Starring Miles Teller and Anya Taylor-Joy, and directed by Scott Derrickson, the film has surpassed previous records set by other Apple TV+ releases.
Plot Overview
The Gorge centers on two elite snipers, Levi (Teller) and Drasa (Taylor-Joy), stationed on opposite sides of a vast, enigmatic gorge. Their mission is to prevent any entity from escaping the chasm below. Despite the physical distance and the secrecy surrounding their assignment, the two develop a profound connection. As they uncover the true nature of the malevolent force lurking beneath, they must collaborate to avert a global catastrophe. The film also features Sigourney Weaver in a pivotal role.
Record-Breaking Performance
Upon its premiere on February 14, 2025, The Gorge swiftly ascended to the top of Apple TV+’s charts. The movie boosted viewership by an impressive 80% compared to the previous weekend and has experienced double-digit growth worldwide. Matt Dentler, Apple Original Films’ Head of Features, expressed enthusiasm about the film’s reception, stating that the company is thrilled with the global resonance of Derrickson’s inventive world.
Critical Reception
The Gorge has garnered mixed reviews from critics and audiences alike. The film holds a 64% approval rating from critics and a 78% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. Reviewers have highlighted the chemistry between Teller and Taylor-Joy as a standout element. However, some critiques point to tonal inconsistencies and a superficial plot. For instance, the Associated Press described the film as an “empty genre mash-up” despite its high production quality.
Apple’s Growing Streaming Portfolio
While Apple Inc. leads globally in market capitalization, its streaming service, Apple TV+, is still expanding. The platform has seen success with series like Ted Lasso, The Morning Show, and Severance. The recent achievements of The Gorge and Severance suggest a promising trajectory for Apple TV+’s original content strategy.
