Retro Film Review: The Gathering (2002)

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(Edited)
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(source: tmdb.org)

The most disheartening aspect of the current state of genre films is the filmmakers' inclination to squander exceptional ideas on lacklustre scripts. An instance of this can be observed in The Gathering, a 2002 British horror film directed by Brian Gilbert.

The narrative unfolds in a quaint English town where a tragic accident claims the lives of a young couple, leading to the discovery of a 1st-century AD church. Simon Kirkman (portrayed by Simon Dillane), a scientist commissioned by the Church to investigate the find, finds himself entangled in the unfolding events. Meanwhile, his wife Marion (played by Kerry Fox) inadvertently collides with American tourist Cassie Grant (depicted by Christina Ricci) while driving. Despite Cassie miraculously escaping severe harm, she suffers from amnesia, prompting Marion to take her home to aid in her recovery. As Cassie grapples with terrifying visions of violence, enigmatic figures start appearing in the town.

The Gathering is penned by Anthony Horowitz, a renowned British writer acclaimed for the popular TV series Foyle’s War. This pedigree should have ensured a gripping thriller, given Horowitz's adeptness at crafting intricate plots. The initial premise of the story was innovative, hinting at the potential for The Gathering to transcend as an above-average horror thriller. Regrettably, the central mystery is unveiled well before the film's conclusion, leaving the proficient cast and director Gilbert to contend with a formulaic and foreseeable finale riddled with plot gaps and implausibilities. With Gilbert's adept direction, The Gathering does boast some striking scenes and visuals. Nevertheless, the substantial assembly of talent and evident dedication poured into the production only serves to accentuate the overall sense of disappointment.

RATING: 4/10 (+)

(Note: Original version of the review is available here.)

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6 comments
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I can feel the pain in your writing. As a movie lover myself, I understand the feeling of disappointment that comes from seeing a poorly executed Movie or TvShow project.

There are a lot of those in this day and time.

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Ciao @drax, hai proprio ragione, a volte dalla sceneggiatura può dipendere la riuscita di un film
!LUV
!PIZZA
!COFFEE

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Great retro film review of 'The Gathering' (2002)! Your analysis brings back nostalgia and highlights the film's enduring appeal. Thanks for sharing your insights