When Sharks Attack: A Cinematic Review
I'm diving into the depths of shark-infested cinema with a review of 'Deep Water', a film that promises a thrilling ride. But does it sink or swim in the vast ocean of shark movies?
The Setup
Imagine a flight from LA to Shanghai, a diverse group of passengers, and a sudden explosion that sends the plane crashing into the ocean. It's a classic disaster scenario, but with a twist—the survivors must now battle hungry sharks. It's a straightforward premise, and sometimes simplicity is the key to engaging audiences.
The film boasts a star-studded cast, with Aaron Eckhart taking the lead. However, the real draw is the ensemble cast, which includes the legendary Ben Kingsley, albeit in a limited role. The characters are a mixed bag, ranging from the obnoxious jock to the mysterious man responsible for the crash. You'll find yourself eagerly anticipating their shark-filled demise, but the film doesn't always deliver on this promise.
Character Conundrum
One of the most intriguing aspects of 'Deep Water' is its character development, or lack thereof. The film introduces a plethora of characters, making it challenging to keep track of who's who and who's next on the shark's menu. This unpredictability adds a layer of excitement, but it's a double-edged sword. Some characters you expect to survive meet an untimely end, while others you'd love to see eaten live on.
The children in the film are particularly frustrating. They seem to exist solely to increase the danger and chaos, acting with a level of obliviousness that borders on absurdity. Their presence adds an unintentional comedic element, which may or may not be what the filmmakers intended.
Shark-tastic Action?
If you're a shark enthusiast, you might be disappointed by the lack of shark action in the first half of the film. Renny Harlin teases the audience, holding back the shark spectacle for nearly 50 minutes. This build-up is a bold move, as it transforms the film into a disaster movie first and a shark thriller second. When the sharks finally arrive, they don't disappoint in terms of quantity, but their behavior is typical of movie sharks—unrealistically fast and insatiably hungry.
Visuals and Effects
The visual effects in 'Deep Water' are a mixed bag. Some scenes are impressive, while others reveal the constraints of a smaller budget. The greenscreen is a constant reminder of the film's artificiality, but the plane crash sequence is a standout moment, reminiscent of the 'Final Destination' franchise. It's a visually stunning disaster, leaving you curious about its impact on the big screen.
A Tale of Two Halves
'Deep Water' feels like two films in one. The first half is a tense disaster movie, while the second half embraces the shark thriller genre. This shift in tone is jarring, and the film struggles to find a balance between campy fun and serious drama. The emotional moments often fall flat, and the exposition-heavy dialogue doesn't help the audience connect with the characters.
The film has its heartwarming moments, like a grandmother's video message to her granddaughter, but it also veers into over-the-top melodrama during the crash sequence. A more consistent tone, perhaps leaning into the schlocky elements, could have made for a more cohesive and enjoyable experience.
Final Thoughts
'Deep Water' is a film of contrasts, offering a compelling plane crash story with a side of shark-induced chaos. It's a fun ride if you're willing to overlook the logical inconsistencies and embrace the absurdity. Renny Harlin delivers some thrilling moments, but the film could have benefited from a tighter script and a clearer identity. So, is it a must-watch? Well, that depends on your appetite for shark-infested cinema and your tolerance for uneven storytelling.
