Uncut Gems, the Adam Sandler thriller that generated a lot of buzz in 2019, is now available to stream on Netflix in the United States. The film has been available on Netflix in other parts of the world for months, but this is the first time it’s available to stream on the network in America.
Directed by Josh and Benny Safdie, Uncut Gems stars Sandler as a New York City jeweller in a film that scored strong reviews. In particular, critics praised Sandler’s performance in a more serious role than what he is known for. The movie also stars former NBA player Kevin Garnett, along with Idina Menzel, Lakeith Stanfield, and Julia Fox.
Coinciding with the movie’s release on Netflix, Entertainment Weekly posted an interview with Sandler and the Safdie brothers that was originally conducted in 2019 but held back to avoid spoilers. In the interview, it’s revealed that Sandler was nearly choked out by stunt performers during a scene.
“There was one take when Sandler was getting choked and he was trying to tap out, but the actor thought that he was just being Howard so he choked harder, and Adam couldn’t breathe,” Josh Safdie said.
GameSpot’s Uncut Gems review scored the movie an 8/10. Reviewer Rafael Motamayor specifically praised the movie’s stress and tension. “This is not a feel-good movie, but one that leaves you with the sensation that you just experienced two filmmakers and a star at the height of their craft,” Motamayor said. “Uncut Gems will get your heart pumping from 0 to 80 in seconds, and it will be hard to forget such an achievement.”
