Is the movie The Gorge based on a book? Here's everything we know

Many people are curious about The Gorge, wondering if it’s adapted from a book or another movie.

Let us lay it out for you! The Gorge is not based on a book or a previous film. However, video games inspire it to a great extent. It’s an original story written and directed by Scott Derrickson.

In interviews, Derrickson shared that the story takes cues from Until Dawn and Silent Hill, two beloved horror-themed games. There’s also some influence from The Last of Us, known for its emotional depth and apocalyptic themes.

Until Dawn is a game that revolves around choices, tension, and the struggle to survive until morning. The same feeling of dread and suspense fills The Gorge, especially when night falls and everything changes for the characters.

If you’ve played Silent Hill, you know the psychological horror it brings. The Gorge borrows that unsettling, slow-burning fear and uses its isolated setting to ramp up the anxiety.

At its core, The Gorge tells the story of two elite snipers stationed on opposite sides of a massive, classified gorge. Their job? Guard the world from a dangerous and mysterious evil hiding within. But as time passes, things take a darker turn. They form a bond despite the distance, and together, they face something much bigger than they expected.

What is the movie about?

The Gorge leans into this emotional storytelling, showing how the snipers connect despite their bleak surroundings.

The Gorge isn’t just horror; it blends action, thriller, psychological drama, and even a little romance. Derrickson wanted the movie to feel intense but not chaotic, focusing on tension and character development rather than constant action.

Most movies either go full action or full horror. The Gorge finds a middle ground. It’s rich in story and character development. The emotional weight of the characters’ relationship adds depth, making it more than just another survival story.

The gorge isn’t just a location, it’s a character in its own right. It represents danger, isolation, and mystery. The characters are constantly watching and waiting, unsure of what might come next. That tension makes every scene feel alive with possibility.

Critics, such as those at GamesRadar, have noted that the movie reminds them of The Last of Us and Silent Hill. Viewers appreciate the atmospheric world and how it draws them in without requiring nonstop action.

You can now stream The Gorge exclusively on Apple TV+. If you're a fan of tense, character-driven thrillers with a touch of horror, this one’s worth adding to your watchlist.