“Exquisite, simple and torturously suspenseful.” Don’t watch this alone on Netflix.
Today is a very good day for people that absolutely love to binge-watch on Netflix. Not only has the superb documentary Long Shot been added, but there’s a new Stephen King adaptation in the world and we’re very happy to report that it’s an absolute belter.
A few weeks ago, we brought you the news that one of King’s most beloved novels, Gerald’s Game, was about to be unleashed on the world. If you loved IT, you’ll be pleased to know that some critics believe that The Losers Club and Pennywise no longer hold the title of ‘best King adaptation in 2017’.
In their review, Den of Geek said that Gerald’s Game “might be the most haunting Stephen King adaptation of the year” and they’re not the only ones that think Mike Flanagan’s adaptation is a twisted and terrifying masterpiece.
In the film, Gerald Burlingame (Bruce Greenwood) and his wife Jessie (Carla Gugino) attempt to rekindle the flames of their marriage with a retreat to their remote lake house. But when a dangerous sex game accidentally kills Gerald and leaves Jessie handcuffed to the bed, the latter is forced to overcome panic and hallucinations if she wants to escape.
As time passes and she realises that a rescue seems impossible, Jessie begins to slip into insanity as the voices in her head manifest themselves into visions.
Are these voices real, or are they just hallucinations?
With a rating of 90% on Rotten Tomatoes and 77% on Metacritic, Gerald’s Game is currently registering a higher average-rate of reviews than IT – Andres Muschietti’s new take on Pennywise’s terrifying tale has scored 85% and 70% respectively.
Granted, they’re very different films and we’re expecting these ratings to change as more reviews come in, but isn’t it bloody brilliant to see two horror films scoring so positively and being embraced?
Regarding Gerald’s Game, the critics have been unanimous in their praise:
The Times – “Finally, after the abysmal The Dark Tower and the overhyped It, we have a Stephen King adaptation that’s worthy of the brand.”
IGN – “An exquisite, simple, torturously suspenseful thriller.”
Bloody Disgusting – “Gerald’s Game’ Hits ‘Misery’ Levels of Cringe-worthy Tension.”
The Verge – “Writer-director Mike Flanagan and co-writer Jeff Howard have turned Gerald’s Game into one of the most compelling, eerie, memorable Stephen King adaptations to date.”
Consequence of Sound – ” It’s that rare horror film that works on both a psychological and a visceral level.”
We know what you’ll be watching this weekend.
LISTEN: You Must Be Jokin’ with Aideen McQueen – Faith healers, Coolock craic and Gigging as Gaeilge
