Shark Sighting Thrill

***This review contains some SPOILERS

47 Meters Down is an original shark film in many ways. Two sisters, one who is reluctant and terrified at the idea of shark-sighting (Mandy Moore "Lisa"), the younger one (Claire Holt "Kate") an eager risk-taker, share a close bond that is important given the later circumstances when they are trapped 47 meters down inside Mexico's beautiful and mysterious ocean. The beginning of the film seems like twenty minutes of a romantic drama, not a thriller, as you learn that Lisa's boyfriend left her and that the girls are sweet and a bit naive as they flirt with two young men, who invite them on the shark excursion.

But, finally, once they are inside of the cage and 5 meters into the water, the movie starts to feel like a thriller. So, how is it original? There are two protagonists in the exact same situation within the exact same physical confinement. Then you have the shock of their drop to the bottom of the sea. The knowledge that they oxygen tanks will be running out soon sets in motion a time detonator. And then almost the entire movie is spent underwater.

Is the movie just one shark scare after another? No. There are other obstacles to contend with as well, adding to the tension. The parts where I was really on edge happened to take place when the camera focused on the underbelly of the ocean. All of that water was like looking into space. There is so much vulnerability for these two girls, especially once they attempt to get help by risking a swim outside of the cage. At any moment, anything, like a Great White, could leap out at you. A lot of realistic-like fear and tension throughout. A particular scene involving a flare was delightfully surprising.

The ending. Ugh. Not completely thrilled by it. It's a bit of a twist, but not an entirely satisfying one. Cutting out those final five minutes would have been more rewarding.

#47MetersDown #MandyMoore #ClaireHolt #WeinsteinBrothers