The Girl with All the Gifts (2016) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
The Girl with All the Gifts (2016) is a British post-apocalyptic science fiction horror film directed by Colm McCarthy. Based on the novel of the same name by M.R. Carey, the film offers a unique twist on the zombie genre, blending elements of horror, drama, and science fiction.
Overview of The Girl with All the Gifts (2016)
- Directed by: Colm McCarthy
- Written by: M.R. Carey (screenplay), based on his novel
- Starring: Sennia Nanua (Melanie), Gemma Arterton (Miss Justineau), Glenn Close (Dr. Caldwell), Paddy Considine (Sgt. Parks)
- Release Date: September 23, 2016
- Runtime: 111 minutes
- Rating: R
- Genre: Drama, Horror, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Plot Summary: A New Breed of Humanity
In The Girl with All the Gifts, the world has been ravaged by a fungal infection that turns humans into aggressive, zombie-like creatures known as “Hungries.” The story is set in a military base where a group of children, including the intelligent and empathetic Melanie (Sennia Nanua), are held captive. Unlike regular humans, these children are infected but retain their intelligence and self-control, which makes them subjects of study for scientists.
As the base is overrun by Hungries, Melanie, her teacher Miss Justineau (Gemma Arterton), and scientist Dr. Caldwell (Glenn Close) must escape with the help of Sergeant Parks (Paddy Considine). They embark on a perilous journey through a desolate landscape, facing the horrors of the new world and the challenges of their own humanity.
Themes: Survival, Humanity, and Identity
The Girl with All the Gifts delves into several thought-provoking themes:
- Survival: The film examines the struggle for survival in a post-apocalyptic world, focusing on both the physical and psychological challenges faced by the characters.
- Humanity: The story explores what it means to be human, particularly through the character of Melanie, who represents a new form of humanity that challenges traditional notions of civilization and savagery.
- Identity: Melanie’s journey raises questions about identity and self-worth, as she grapples with her own nature and the expectations of those around her.
Performances and Direction
- Sennia Nanua as Melanie delivers a standout performance, portraying a complex character who navigates the horrors of her world with both innocence and intelligence. Nanua’s performance adds depth and emotional weight to the film.
- Gemma Arterton as Miss Justineau provides a compassionate and strong presence. Her character’s evolving relationship with Melanie is central to the film’s emotional core.
- Glenn Close as Dr. Caldwell brings gravitas and depth to her role as a scientist driven by a desire to understand the infection. Close’s performance adds a layer of moral ambiguity to the story.
- Paddy Considine as Sergeant Parks offers a rugged and pragmatic portrayal, balancing the film’s dramatic and action elements.
- Colm McCarthy directs with a steady hand, crafting a film that is both visually striking and thematically rich. McCarthy’s direction combines horror and science fiction elements with character-driven drama.
What Works in The Girl with All the Gifts (2016)
1. Unique Take on the Zombie Genre
The film offers a fresh perspective on the zombie genre by focusing on infected children who retain their intelligence. This unique twist sets it apart from typical zombie narratives.
2. Strong Performances
The cast delivers compelling performances, with Sennia Nanua, Gemma Arterton, and Glenn Close standing out. Their portrayals add depth and emotional resonance to the story.
3. Thought-Provoking Themes
The film explores complex themes such as humanity, survival, and identity, providing a thought-provoking experience that goes beyond standard horror tropes.
What Falls Short in The Girl with All the Gifts (2016)
1. Pacing Issues
The film’s pacing can be uneven, with some scenes feeling slow or drawn out. The transition between action and character-driven moments may affect the overall flow of the narrative.
2. Predictable Elements
While the film offers a unique premise, some elements of the plot may feel predictable or familiar to fans of the genre. The narrative follows certain conventions that may detract from its originality.
3. Limited Character Development
Certain characters, particularly secondary ones, may not receive as much development. This can affect the emotional impact of their arcs and the film’s overall depth.
Streaming Services: Where to Watch The Girl with All the Gifts (2016) Online
If you’re interested in watching The Girl with All the Gifts (2016), here are some options for streaming and rental:
1. Hulu
The Girl with All the Gifts (2016) is available for streaming on Hulu, which offers a variety of films and series. Subscribers can watch the film as part of their subscription.
2. Amazon Prime Video
Amazon Prime Video provides The Girl with All the Gifts (2016) for rental or purchase. Rental prices typically start at $3.99, with purchase options available for approximately $12.99.
3. Apple TV
Apple TV offers The Girl with All the Gifts (2016) for both rental and purchase. Rental prices usually start at $4.99, while purchase options are available for around $14.99.
Final Thoughts on The Girl with All the Gifts (2016)
The Girl with All the Gifts (2016) is a distinctive and thought-provoking film that offers a fresh take on the zombie genre. Directed by Colm McCarthy, the film combines horror, science fiction, and drama to create a compelling narrative. While it may have some pacing issues and predictable elements, its strong performances and unique premise make it a worthwhile watch for fans of the genre.
You can stream The Girl with All the Gifts (2016) on Hulu or rent/purchase it on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.
