“Gifted” Movie Review: A Heartfelt Drama with Stellar Performances

“Gifted” is a 2017 American drama film directed by Marc Webb and written by Tom Flynn. The movie centers around the story of a single man named Frank Adler, played by Chris Evans, who is raising his seven-year-old niece, Mary Adler, played by Mckenna Grace. Mary is a child prodigy who is highly gifted in mathematics, and her uncle wants to give her a normal childhood despite her genius-level intellect.

The plot of the movie revolves around the struggle between Frank’s desire for Mary to have a normal childhood and Mary’s grandmother’s, Evelyn Adler, played by Lindsay Duncan, desire for Mary to use her mathematical abilities to change the world. As the story unfolds, Frank and Evelyn’s differing views on how to raise Mary create a heart-wrenching custody battle that raises important questions about the nature of giftedness and the role of family in the lives of gifted children.

The pacing of the movie is superb, with the storyline unfolding at a steady pace that keeps the viewer engaged throughout the film. The director, Marc Webb, does an excellent job of creating a visually stunning film that captures the emotional depth of the story. The cinematography of the movie is fantastic, with beautiful shots of the Florida landscape serving as a backdrop to the characters’ struggles.


The character development in “Gifted” is one of the movie’s most impressive aspects. The main characters, Frank and Mary, are portrayed with such depth and nuance that viewers cannot help but become emotionally invested in their journey. The chemistry between Chris Evans and Mckenna Grace is exceptional, and their performances bring a raw, authentic quality to the film.

Octavia Spencer plays the role of Roberta, Frank’s neighbor and friend, who provides a much-needed support system for the struggling family. Her performance is both heartfelt and comedic, providing much-needed levity to the emotional plot.

The soundtrack of the movie is equally impressive, with music that perfectly complements the film’s themes and tone. Rob Simonsen’s original score beautifully captures the emotional depth of the movie, with its hauntingly beautiful melodies and moving orchestral pieces.


Overall, “Gifted” is a movie that will leave viewers with a lot to think about. It raises important questions about the role of family, the nature of giftedness, and what it means to be a good parent. The movie is an emotionally powerful and thought-provoking story that is a must-watch for anyone who loves family dramas.

In the words of film critic Peter Travers, “Gifted” is “a movie that will make you laugh, cry, and think.” It’s a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of film to bring important issues to light. It’s a movie that will stay with you long after the credits roll, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for the people in your life who love and support you.


In conclusion, “Gifted” is a beautifully crafted movie that deserves to be watched by a wide audience. It’s a heartfelt and thought-provoking tale that will touch the hearts of viewers of all ages. With its superb acting, breathtaking cinematography, and emotionally powerful storyline, the film has all the elements of a great movie. It’s a rare gem that manages to be both heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time, showcasing the complexities of life and the strength of the human spirit.

Whether you’re a fan of dramas, comedies, or tearjerkers, “Gifted” has something for everyone. It’s a movie that transcends genres and speaks to the human experience, reminding us of the importance of family, love, and empathy. So, if you’re looking for a movie that will make you laugh, cry, and think, “Gifted” is the perfect choice.

Here is the movie trailer by Ajyal America