ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA – Mary Adler, a seven-year-old girl with a remarkable talent for mathematics, has been raised by her uncle Frank, a former philosophy teacher turned mechanic. Despite her exceptional abilities, Frank believes that Mary should attend a regular elementary school to have a normal childhood.
THE BEGINNING OF A LEGAL BATTLE
However, when Mary starts elementary school, her extraordinary skills come to light as she swiftly solves complex calculations. This coincides with the return of Evelyn, Mary’s grandmother and Frank’s mother, an ex-mathematician who believes Mary should cultivate her talents in specialized settings for the benefit of research. This sparks a fierce legal battle for Mary’s custody.
Gifted – The Gift of Talent: TO BE OR NOT TO BE
A family drama unfolds, where those who should prioritize the well-being of the traumatized child end up facing off with deceit and low blows. The screenplay delves into the characters’ hearts, showcasing intense performances by a surprising Chris Evans and the young Mckenna Grace, following in the footsteps of other child prodigy actresses. The supporting cast, including Olivia Spencer and Lindsay Duncan, also deliver strong performances.
SIMPLE YET GENUINE EMOTIONS
Gifted – The Gift of Talent, available on Netflix, directed by Marc Webb, dives into the emotion of the narrative, even if it occasionally leans towards a stereotypical American rhetoric. The film’s strength lies in its simplicity, shedding light on the universal theme of child prodigies, prompting viewers to reflect on the balance between specialized opportunities and a normal childhood for gifted individuals.
FINAL THOUGHTS
In Gifted – The Gift of Talent, a child prodigy becomes the focal point of a legal battle between her beloved uncle and determined grandmother. The film, while venturing into familiar territory, manages to evoke the right emotions and captivate the audience with its compelling storytelling and diverse cast. With a solid direction by Marc Webb and standout performances, Gifted appeals to a wide audience with its emotional depth and thought-provoking themes.