"Uncut Gems" refers to a 2019 American crime thriller film directed by Josh and Benny Safdie, starring Adam Sandler as Howard Ratner, a charismatic but reckless New York City jeweler.
The film follows Howard's high-stakes adventures as he tries to pay off his debts and make a big score by acquiring a rare uncut opal from Ethiopia. Along the way, he encounters a cast of colorful characters, including his gambling-addicted brother-in-law (Lakeith Stanfield), a volatile loan shark (Eric Bogosian), and a mysterious Celtics basketball player (Kevin Garnett). "Uncut Gems" is a suspenseful and adrenaline-fueled exploration of greed, addiction, and the pursuit of the American Dream.
The film was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $50 million worldwide and receiving nominations for the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay and the BAFTA Award for Best Actor for Sandler's performance. It has been praised for its realistic portrayal of the New York City diamond district, its intense performances, and its Safdie brothers' signature frenetic filmmaking style.
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What is Uncut Gems
Uncut Gems is a 2019 American crime thriller film directed by Josh and Benny Safdie, starring Adam Sandler as Howard Ratner, a charismatic but reckless New York City jeweler. The film follows Howard's high-stakes adventures as he tries to pay off his debts and make a big score by acquiring a rare uncut opal from Ethiopia.
- Crime thriller: The film is a suspenseful and adrenaline-fueled exploration of greed, addiction, and the pursuit of the American Dream.
- New York City: The film is set in the diamond district of New York City, and it captures the city's unique energy and atmosphere.
- Adam Sandler: Sandler gives a tour-de-force performance as Howard Ratner, a flawed but ultimately sympathetic character.
- Uncut opal: The uncut opal is a symbol of Howard's dreams and ambitions, and it drives the plot of the film.
- Addiction: Howard is addicted to gambling, and his addiction leads him to make increasingly reckless decisions.
- Greed: Howard is driven by greed, and he is willing to do whatever it takes to make a profit.
- American Dream: The film explores the American Dream and the ways in which it can be both alluring and destructive.
- Safdie brothers: The Safdie brothers are known for their frenetic filmmaking style, and Uncut Gems is no exception.
- Critical acclaim: Uncut Gems was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $50 million worldwide and receiving nominations for the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay and the BAFTA Award for Best Actor for Sandler's performance.
Uncut Gems is a complex and challenging film that explores a variety of dark and disturbing themes. However, it is also a film that is full of energy and vitality, and it features some of the best performances of Adam Sandler's career. The film is a must-see for fans of crime thrillers, and it is sure to stay with you long after the credits have rolled.
Crime thriller
The crime thriller genre is characterized by its focus on suspense, violence, and moral ambiguity. Uncut Gems is a prime example of this genre, as it follows Howard Ratner, a charismatic but reckless jeweler, as he tries to pay off his debts and make a big score by acquiring a rare uncut opal from Ethiopia. Along the way, he encounters a cast of colorful characters, including his gambling-addicted brother-in-law, a volatile loan shark, and a mysterious Celtics basketball player.
- Greed: Howard is driven by greed, and he is willing to do whatever it takes to make a profit. He is constantly gambling and taking risks, and he often puts himself in dangerous situations.
- Addiction: Howard is addicted to gambling, and his addiction leads him to make increasingly reckless decisions. He is unable to control his gambling, and it eventually ruins his life.
- The American Dream: Uncut Gems explores the American Dream and the ways in which it can be both alluring and destructive. Howard is driven by the desire to achieve the American Dream, but he is ultimately unable to escape his own greed and addiction.
Uncut Gems is a complex and challenging film that explores a variety of dark and disturbing themes. However, it is also a film that is full of energy and vitality, and it features some of the best performances of Adam Sandler's career. The film is a must-see for fans of crime thrillers, and it is sure to stay with you long after the credits have rolled.
New York City
The setting of Uncut Gems in New York City is integral to the film's plot and characters. The diamond district of New York City is a unique and vibrant setting, and the film captures the district's energy and atmosphere perfectly.
- The diamond district is a melting pot of cultures and languages. This diversity is reflected in the film's cast of characters, who come from all over the world.
- The diamond district is a place where dreams are made and shattered. Howard Ratner, the film's protagonist, is a diamond dealer who is constantly chasing the next big score. He is driven by greed and ambition, and he is willing to do whatever it takes to succeed.
- The diamond district is a place where danger lurks around every corner. Howard's life is constantly in danger, and he is always looking over his shoulder. The film's fast-paced editing and camerawork create a sense of urgency and danger.
- The diamond district is a place where the American Dream is alive and well. Howard is a self-made man who has achieved success through hard work and determination. However, he is also a flawed character, and his ambition ultimately leads to his downfall.
The setting of Uncut Gems in New York City is essential to the film's success. The city's unique energy and atmosphere create a backdrop for a suspenseful and thrilling story about greed, ambition, and the American Dream.
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Adam Sandler
Adam Sandler's performance as Howard Ratner is a key component of what makes Uncut Gems such a great film. Sandler brings a unique combination of charisma, vulnerability, and intensity to the role, creating a character that is both deeply flawed and ultimately sympathetic.
Howard Ratner is a complex character. He is a successful jeweler, but he is also a compulsive gambler and a family man. He is driven by greed and ambition, but he also has a good heart. Sandler captures all of these contradictions in his performance, creating a character that is both believable and relatable.
Sandler's performance is also essential to the film's suspense and tension. Howard Ratner is constantly making bad decisions, and Sandler's performance makes us feel the weight of these decisions. We are constantly on edge, wondering what Howard is going to do next and how it is going to end.
Sandler's performance in Uncut Gems is a masterclass in acting. It is a tour-de-force performance that is sure to stay with you long after the credits have rolled.
Uncut opal
The uncut opal is a central symbol in the film Uncut Gems. It represents Howard Ratner's dreams and ambitions, and it drives the plot of the film. Howard is a jeweler who is always looking for the next big score. He is constantly gambling and taking risks, and he is always looking for a way to make a profit. The uncut opal is a symbol of Howard's hopes and dreams. He believes that if he can sell the opal, he will be able to pay off his debts and finally achieve his dreams.
The uncut opal is also a symbol of Howard's greed and ambition. He is willing to do whatever it takes to get his hands on the opal, even if it means putting his life in danger. The opal is a powerful symbol of the American Dream, and it represents the idea that anyone can achieve success if they are willing to work hard and take risks. However, the opal is also a reminder that the American Dream can be elusive, and that it can come at a great cost.
The uncut opal is a complex and multifaceted symbol. It represents Howard's dreams and ambitions, his greed and ambition, and his belief in the American Dream. The opal is a powerful reminder that the American Dream can be both alluring and destructive, and that it is important to be careful what you wish for.
Addiction
In the film Uncut Gems, Howard Ratner's addiction to gambling is a central part of his character and drives the plot of the film. His addiction leads him to make increasingly reckless decisions, which ultimately have devastating consequences for him and his loved ones.
- Financial ruin: Howard's gambling addiction leads him to financial ruin. He owes money to loan sharks and other dangerous people, and he is constantly at risk of losing everything.
- Relationship problems: Howard's gambling addiction also damages his relationships with his wife and children. He is often absent and unreliable, and he is unable to control his temper when he is losing.
- Health problems: Howard's gambling addiction also takes a toll on his health. He is constantly stressed and anxious, and he is at risk of developing physical and mental health problems.
- Legal problems: Howard's gambling addiction also leads him to legal problems. He is arrested for gambling debts and other crimes, and he is at risk of going to prison.
Howard's addiction to gambling is a tragic example of how addiction can ruin lives. It is a powerful reminder that addiction is a serious disease that can have devastating consequences. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, please seek help.
Greed
Greed is a major theme in the film Uncut Gems. Howard Ratner, the film's protagonist, is a jeweler who is constantly chasing the next big score. He is driven by greed and ambition, and he is willing to do whatever it takes to make a profit. This often leads him to make reckless and dangerous decisions.
For example, Howard gambles away his family's savings in an attempt to double his money. He also borrows money from loan sharks at exorbitant interest rates. These decisions ultimately lead to his downfall.
The uncut gems in the film are a symbol of Howard's greed. He is obsessed with acquiring the gems and making a profit from them. However, his greed ultimately leads to his ruin.
The connection between greed and the uncut gems is a reminder that greed can be a destructive force. It can lead to people making bad decisions that can have devastating consequences.
American Dream
The American Dream is a major theme in the film Uncut Gems. The film's protagonist, Howard Ratner, is a jeweler who is constantly chasing the next big score. He is driven by the American Dream of success and wealth, and he is willing to do whatever it takes to achieve it.
However, the film also shows the dark side of the American Dream. Howard's greed and ambition ultimately lead to his downfall. He loses his family, his friends, and his business. He is also arrested and sent to prison.
Uncut Gems is a cautionary tale about the dangers of the American Dream. The film shows that the American Dream can be alluring, but it can also be destructive. It is important to be aware of the risks involved in pursuing the American Dream, and to make sure that you are not sacrificing your values in the process.
Safdie brothers
The Safdie brothers' frenetic filmmaking style is a key component of what makes Uncut Gems such a unique and compelling film. Their use of handheld cameras, long takes, and rapid editing creates a sense of urgency and chaos that perfectly captures the high-stakes world of diamond dealing in New York City.
The Safdie brothers' style is also essential to the film's suspense and tension. The film's fast-paced editing and camerawork create a sense of urgency and danger that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. We are constantly wondering what Howard is going to do next and how it is going to end.
The Safdie brothers' frenetic filmmaking style is not merely a stylistic choice. It is an essential part of the film's storytelling. The film's style perfectly captures the high-stakes world of diamond dealing and the suspenseful tension of Howard's journey.
Critical acclaim
Uncut Gems received widespread critical acclaim for its performances, directing, screenplay, editing, and cinematography. It was named one of the best films of 2019 by many publications, including The New York Times, The Guardian, and Time magazine. The film was also a commercial success, grossing over $50 million worldwide against a production budget of $19 million.
- Critical acclaim: Uncut Gems received critical acclaim from critics, with many praising Sandler's performance, the Safdie brothers' directing, and the film's screenplay, editing, and cinematography.
- Commercial success: Uncut Gems was a commercial success, grossing over $50 million worldwide against a production budget of $19 million.
- Awards and nominations: Uncut Gems was nominated for several awards, including the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay and the BAFTA Award for Best Actor for Sandler's performance.
The critical and commercial success of Uncut Gems is a testament to the film's quality. The film is a well-made and entertaining thriller that features strong performances from the cast and crew. Uncut Gems is a must-see for fans of the Safdie brothers and for fans of crime thrillers in general.
FAQs on "Uncut Gems"
Question 1: What is the movie "Uncut Gems" about?
Uncut Gems is a 2019 American crime thriller film directed by Josh and Benny Safdie, starring Adam Sandler as Howard Ratner, a charismatic but reckless New York City jeweler. The film follows Howard's high-stakes adventures as he tries to pay off his debts and make a big score by acquiring a rare uncut opal from Ethiopia.
Question 2: What is the significance of the uncut gems in the film?
The uncut opal is a symbol of Howard's dreams and ambitions. He believes that if he can sell the opal, he will be able to pay off his debts and finally achieve his dreams. However, the opal is also a reminder that the American Dream can be elusive, and that it can come at a great cost.
Question 3: What is the Safdie brothers' filmmaking style like?
The Safdie brothers are known for their frenetic filmmaking style, which is characterized by its use of handheld cameras, long takes, and rapid editing. This style creates a sense of urgency and chaos that perfectly captures the high-stakes world of diamond dealing in New York City.
Question 4: What is the critical reception of "Uncut Gems"?
Uncut Gems received widespread critical acclaim for its performances, directing, screenplay, editing, and cinematography. It was named one of the best films of 2019 by many publications, including The New York Times, The Guardian, and Time magazine.
Question 5: What awards did "Uncut Gems" receive?
Uncut Gems was nominated for several awards, including the Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay and the BAFTA Award for Best Actor for Sandler's performance.
Question 6: Is "Uncut Gems" worth watching?
Uncut Gems is a well-made and entertaining thriller that features strong performances from the cast and crew. It is a must-see for fans of the Safdie brothers and for fans of crime thrillers in general.
Summary: Uncut Gems is a critically acclaimed crime thriller that explores themes of greed, addiction, and the American Dream. The film's unique filmmaking style and strong performances make it a must-see for fans of the genre.
Transition: To learn more about the making of Uncut Gems, please refer to the next article section.
Uncut Gems
Uncut Gems is a critically acclaimed crime thriller that explores themes of greed, addiction, and the American Dream. The film's unique filmmaking style and strong performances make it a must-see for fans of the genre.
Tip 1: Set realistic goals.
Howard Ratner, the protagonist of Uncut Gems, is constantly chasing the next big score. He is driven by greed and ambition, and he is willing to do whatever it takes to make a profit. However, his unrealistic goals ultimately lead to his downfall.
Tip 2: Be aware of the risks.
Howard is aware of the risks involved in his business, but he is willing to take them anyway. He gambles away his family's savings, borrows money from loan sharks, and puts his life in danger. Ultimately, his risk-taking behavior leads to his ruin.
Tip 3: Don't let greed control you.
Howard's greed is his downfall. He is so focused on making a profit that he loses sight of everything else. He sacrifices his family, his friends, and his own well-being in pursuit of wealth.
Tip 4: Be honest with yourself.
Howard is constantly lying to himself and to others. He denies his gambling addiction, he hides his debts, and he makes promises that he knows he can't keep. His dishonesty ultimately leads to his downfall.
Tip 5: Don't give up on your dreams.
Despite all of his setbacks, Howard never gives up on his dreams. He believes that he can achieve anything if he just works hard enough. His determination is ultimately his saving grace.
Summary: Uncut Gems is a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed, addiction, and the American Dream. The film's protagonist, Howard Ratner, is a complex and flawed character who makes many mistakes. However, he also has a strong determination and a never-say-die attitude. Uncut Gems is a reminder that it is important to set realistic goals, be aware of the risks, and not let greed control you.
Transition: To learn more about the making of Uncut Gems, please refer to the next article section.
Conclusion
Uncut Gems is a critically acclaimed crime thriller that explores themes of greed, addiction, and the American Dream. The film follows Howard Ratner, a charismatic but reckless New York City jeweler, as he tries to pay off his debts and make a big score by acquiring a rare uncut opal from Ethiopia.
The film is a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and addiction. Howard is driven by his desire for wealth and success, and he is willing to do whatever it takes to achieve his goals. However, his greed and addiction ultimately lead to his downfall.
Uncut Gems is a powerful and thought-provoking film that raises important questions about the American Dream. The film is a reminder that greed and addiction can destroy lives, and that it is important to be careful what you wish for.

