Genuine Review of the 2020 ‧ Horror/Action Film 'Underwater'

"Underwater," released in January 2020, is a sci-fi horror thriller directed by William Eubank. The film stars Kristen Stewart, Vincent Cassel, T.J. Miller, Jessica Henwick, John Gallagher Jr., and Mamoudou Athie. Set in the depths of the Mariana Trench, "Underwater" follows a group of underwater researchers and engineers as they struggle to survive after an earthquake devastates their deep-sea drilling station. Combining elements of suspense, action, and horror, the film explores the themes of survival, human resilience, and the unknown dangers lurking in the depths of the ocean.

Plot Summary:

The story begins with Norah Price (Kristen Stewart), a mechanical engineer working on the Kepler 822, a drilling station located seven miles below the surface of the ocean. An unexpected earthquake strikes, causing catastrophic damage to the station. Norah, along with Captain Lucien (Vincent Cassel) and a few surviving crew members, including Paul (T.J. Miller), Emily (Jessica Henwick), Smith (John Gallagher Jr.), and Rodrigo (Mamoudou Athie), must find a way to escape the collapsing facility and reach the safety of the Roebuck, another station nearby.

As they traverse the treacherous underwater environment, the crew encounters more than just structural dangers. They soon realize they are not alone in the deep, as mysterious and deadly creatures begin to hunt them. The survivors must fight against time, dwindling resources, and these terrifying monsters to reach the surface.

Visual and Technical Aspects:

"Underwater" excels in creating a claustrophobic and tense atmosphere, making the audience feel the immense pressure and isolation of the deep-sea environment. The cinematography by Bojan Bazelli effectively captures the dark, murky visuals of the ocean depths, with tight shots and limited lighting enhancing the feeling of confinement and dread. The use of practical effects and detailed set designs adds to the film's immersive quality, making the underwater scenes feel authentic and menacing.

The special effects are well-executed, particularly in depicting the underwater creatures and the collapsing structures. The sound design plays a crucial role in building tension, with the creaking of the station, the muffled sounds of underwater movement, and the eerie noises of the creatures adding to the suspense.

Character Development and Performances:

Kristen Stewart delivers a strong performance as Norah Price, portraying her character's determination and vulnerability with depth and nuance. Stewart's portrayal of Norah's resilience and quick thinking makes her a compelling protagonist, anchoring the film's emotional core. Her character's evolution from a weary engineer to a determined survivor is believable and engaging.

Vincent Cassel as Captain Lucien brings a sense of gravitas and authority to his role. His character's leadership and protective instincts add layers to the group's dynamic, making his interactions with Norah and the other crew members meaningful and impactful.

Jessica Henwick shines as Emily, a biologist who must overcome her fears and uncertainties to survive. Henwick's performance is relatable and adds a human element to the film's tension. T.J. Miller provides some comic relief as Paul, balancing the film's darker moments with humor, although his character sometimes feels out of place in the intense atmosphere.

Themes and Reflections:

"Underwater" explores several themes, including the instinct for survival, the unpredictability of nature, and the consequences of human exploration. The film highlights the fragility of human life in the face of overwhelming natural forces and the lengths to which people will go to survive. Norah's journey is one of self-discovery and resilience, emphasizing the strength of the human spirit in the direst circumstances.

The presence of the underwater creatures serves as a metaphor for the unknown and the dangers that lie beneath the surface of our world. The film suggests that humanity's pursuit of knowledge and resources can sometimes lead to unintended and deadly consequences. This theme resonates with real-world concerns about environmental degradation and the impact of deep-sea drilling.

Critique and Unique Elements:

While "Underwater" offers a thrilling and immersive experience, it is not without its flaws. The pacing can be uneven at times, with some scenes feeling rushed while others drag. The film's reliance on genre conventions and predictable plot twists can make it feel formulaic, and some characters are underdeveloped, reducing the emotional impact of their fates.

Despite these issues, "Underwater" stands out for its unique setting and the effective use of suspense and horror elements. The film's ability to maintain tension and create a palpable sense of dread sets it apart from other sci-fi horror films. The combination of strong performances, particularly from Kristen Stewart, and the well-executed visual and sound design makes "Underwater" a memorable and engaging watch.

Conclusion:

"Underwater" is a gripping and atmospheric sci-fi horror thriller that takes audiences on a terrifying journey to the ocean's depths. With its claustrophobic setting, intense suspense, and strong performances, particularly from Kristen Stewart, the film successfully creates a sense of dread and urgency. Although it has its flaws, "Underwater" offers a unique and thrilling experience that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

For fans of the genre, "Underwater" provides a fresh take on the survival horror narrative, combining the fear of the unknown with the raw human instinct to survive. Its exploration of themes related to human resilience and the dangers of exploration adds depth to the story, making it more than just a typical creature feature. Overall, "Underwater" is a film worth diving into for its suspenseful and immersive cinematic experience.