Watch Gerald's Game

Gerald's Game is a 2017 psychological horror-thriller directed by Mike Flanagan and based on Stephen King's 1992 novel of the same name. The film stars Carla Gugino as Jessie Burlingame, a woman who becomes trapped in handcuffs during a sex game gone wrong in a secluded vacation home with her husband, Gerald (Bruce Greenwood). The film begins with Gerald and Jessie packing to go to their vacation home in the hopes of reviving their stagnant marriage. As they arrive at their destination, it becomes clear that their relationship is far from happy, with Gerald frequently belittling Jessie and their sex life being described as "routine" and "boring." In an effort to spice things up, Gerald brings out a pair of handcuffs and ties Jessie to the bed. However, things take a dark turn when Gerald suddenly dies of a heart attack, leaving Jessie alone and unable to free herself.

As she struggles to find a way out of her predicament, Jessie begins to experience frightening hallucinations and flashbacks to her traumatic childhood. She is haunted by the ghost of her father, who mentally and physically abused her as a child, and she confronts her past traumas while fighting to survive in the present. With no one to turn to and limited resources, Jessie must find the strength to face her inner demons and escape from the bed that has become her prison.

The movie is a tense and claustrophobic experience, shot mostly in one location and relying heavily on Gugino's intense and emotional performance. She portrays Jessie's desperation and terror with remarkable authenticity, making the audience feel every moment of her struggle. Greenwood also delivers a standout performance as Gerald, a man with his own internal demons who ultimately falls victim to his own hubris.

The film tackles complex themes such as trauma, survival, and the power dynamics of relationships. It also delves into the importance of self-reflection and the damaging effects of repressed memories. The use of horror elements is effective in creating a sense of dread and unease throughout, with several shocking moments that will leave the audience on the edge of their seat.

Though the film is not without its flaws - some of the flashbacks feel overly drawn out and the ending may leave some viewers wanting more closure - it is a well-crafted and thought-provoking thriller that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll.

Overall, Gerald's Game is a captivating and haunting film that serves as a testament to the power of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity. With stunning performances and a gripping storyline, it is a must-see for fans of horror, psychological thrillers, or anyone looking for a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant film.

Gerald's Game is a 2017 horror movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 43 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5 and a MetaScore of 77.