Deep Water Review: Plane Crash Survivors Face Sharks

Renny Harlin's disaster film "Deep Water" centers on the harrowing survival of plane crash passengers in shark-infested waters, blending suspense with elements of schadenfreude. The movie draws clear visual inspiration from "Jaws," evident in its poster design featuring a shark lurking beneath tiny swimmers. The narrative also includes playful allusions to classic disaster films, with one character humorously compared to Shelley Winters, known for her role in "The Poseidon Adventure."

The film deliberately cultivates audience engagement by encouraging viewers to root for the demise of certain characters, particularly an obnoxious American man portrayed by Angus Sampson, who is depicted as constantly seeking cigarettes. This narrative choice aims to heighten the viewing experience by playing on primal emotions and the desire for justice, even in a fictional context. The movie's approach to disaster filmmaking is described as knowing and effective, fulfilling the genre's potential for delivering action and emotional resonance.

"Deep Water" aims to satisfy the specific cinematic craving that disaster movies can fulfill, offering a mix of sentimentality, suspense, and the enjoyment of watching characters face dire circumstances. The film's success lies in its ability to navigate these elements effectively, providing a compelling narrative of survival against overwhelming odds. The presence of aquatic threats, specifically sharks, adds a visceral layer of danger to the survivors' plight.