Scott Derrickson’s latest film, The Gorge, has surged to the top of Apple TV+’s streaming charts just a day after its debut on the platform.
Starring Anya Taylor-Joy and Miles Teller, the Apple original made an impressive entrance, further demonstrating how Apple’s original programming continues to remain relevant and distinct in an increasingly crowded streaming landscape filled with numerous original films and series.
Released on February 15, landscape filled withThe Gorge captured attention due to its star-studded cast, a well-established director, an intriguing premise, and its unique blend of genres.
Set in a dystopian world, The Gorge centers on Levi (Teller) and Drasa (Taylor-Joy), two snipers stationed on opposite watchtowers overlooking a mysterious gorge.
Neither of them fully understands what they are protecting their respective nations from, but as they grow closer despite the physical distance between them, their bond leads to startling revelations about the gorge’s true nature.
This discovery shifts the film’s tone, transforming it from a romance into a sci-fi action adventure. Incorporating elements of multiple genres—including science fiction, drama, and romance—Derrickson clearly embraces the opportunity to craft a new world, bringing to life a screenplay written by Zach Dean.
Anya Taylor-Joy and Miles TellerDerrickson, known for directing Sinister and Doctor Strange, most recently helmed the horror film The Black Phone and contributed a segment to the found-footage anthology horror V/H/S/85. With The Gorge, he takes an intriguing departure from his usual genres and storytelling style, a move that likely played a role in the film’s immediate success on Apple TV+.
The Gorge Highlights Apple TV+’s Commitment to Large-Scale Investments
The success of The Gorge further solidifies Apple TV+ as a dominant force in the ongoing streaming wars. While competitors like Max, Hulu, and Paramount+ continue to churn out original content, Apple has set itself apart in recent years with standout series such as Ted Lasso, known for its heartwarming cast and feel-good narrative, and recent high-profile films like Steve McQueen’s Blitz.
Additionally, the highly anticipated second season of Severance has drawn significant buzz, thanks in part to an engaging marketing campaign and its weekly release strategy, which has sustained audience interest.
Matthew Rhys is set to star in Widow’s Bay, a supernatural Apple TV+ series from Ghostbusters and The Heat writer Katie Dippold.
Apple TV+ is also home to CODA, the 2022 Academy Award winner for Best Picture, reinforcing the platform’s reputation for producing high-quality films.
Although The Gorge hasn’t received as much critical acclaim as some of Apple’s past successes—holding a 61% rating on Rotten Tomatoes—it is still widely regarded as a well-crafted film. Its ambitious fusion of genres has made it a noteworthy addition to the streamer’s lineup.
It remains to be seen whether The Gorge will maintain its top position on the streaming charts, as new releases tend to rotate quickly given the high volume of content debuting each week.
However, Derrickson’s latest project has already resonated with audiences, proving its popularity. Fans of the director can look forward to his next project, The Black Phone 2, which he has confirmed will be his next film following The Gorge.