I’m not an Adam Sandler fan, but Sandler somehow conjures up the performance of his life in Uncut Gems. Sandler plays manic Howard Ratner, a New York City jeweler. Howard is a compulsive gambler (he loves NBA games!) and his betting losses have landed him in trouble with loan sharks and the thugs they employ as “debt collectors.”
I have never seen a more exhausting movie! Howard is hyper and constantly wheeling-and-dealing. Directors Josh and Benny Safdie ratchet up the action and stress in every scene. I thought Idina Mensel (of “Let It Go” FROZEN fame) gave a convincing performance as Howard’s long-suffering wife who’s ready to let Howard go and end their marriage. I loved Julia Fox, Howard’s mistress, as she both excites Howard and drives him crazy. And Boston Celtic great, Kevin Garnett (who plays himself), delivers a slam-dunk performance. The New York City Diamond District sparkles in this film. As Patti Abbott has pointed out, Uncut Gems is violent–but it will leave you breathless! GRADE: B+
George, I’m no fan of Adam Sandler either, but your review and his non-stereotypical role is prodding me into watching “Uncut Gems”.
Prashant, UNCUT GEMS is an unusual movie. I think you’ll enjoy it.
The sound editing must have been so difficult with everyone talking over each other. Hope he/she gets an award. Liked the use of non-professionals.
Patti, you’re right about the sound difficulties. Sometimes three conversations were going on at the same time. I can’t imagine what the CLOSED CAPTION version will be like!
I’m going to see this tomorrow. Not a Sandler fan although I do like Punch Drunk Love which is atypical Sandler. I thought his opera man on SNL the worst recurring character on that show.
Steve, I have similar feelings about Adam Sandler. But Sandler’s role in UNCUT GEMS is a revelation. You’ll leave the movie theater breathless!
Meh. Don’t like Sandler.
Rick, I’m not a Sandler fan, either, but he really hits it out of the park with this role. Oscar-worthy!