Uncut Gems literally starts with an uncut gem and never gets more polished from there, a purposeful decision by the Safdie brothers that lends itself to a consistently haphazard and stressful experience that will either blow you away or leave you emotionally removed from the experience.

Adam Sandler delivers his best performance since the last time he was in a serious movie. Hell, who am I kidding? This is likely Sandler’s best performance of his career. He kills it, playing a manic hustler who always seems to simultaneous be on the brink of destruction and absolute riches. You can never tell which way he will turn, and the same can be said for the film.

The Safdie brothers do a marvelous job here, their film as rough and wild as their protagonist, though personally I found their previous film, the Robert Pattinson-starring Good Time, a more enthralling and enriching experience. Uncut Gems, as well made as it is, didn’t put me in a chokehold the way I was hoping for. Or expecting it to. Sandler lurches from one scene to the next, leaning forward into one risky move after another, but the purposeful chaos isn't as riveting as you'd think.

Even still, the Safdies nail the ending. Regardless of what you think of the film, the climax will be remembered for some time, a piercing and powerful moment that leaves you breathless.

Uncut Gems is a fascinating and unique experience, even if it isn’t the enthralling one I wanted.

Review by Erik Samdahl unless otherwise indicated.