OPEN WATER

Director: Chris Kentis (Grind)
Starring: Blanchard Ryan, Daniel Travis


"Inspired" by true events, this low budget film tells the story of two scuba divers accidentally abandoned in the middle of the ocean. Due to the shear incompentance of the diving company, the divers are simply forgotten as the boat speeds to port. They then face not only the terror of their impending death, but a pack of peckish sharks. This is a great idea, and to a degree the film is succesful. For instance, despite showing little more than two people floating in the ocean for 45 minutes, the movie is never boring. Unfortunately, it never quite captures the terror of the situation (although a few moments in the pitch black of night come awfully close). This could have been another Blair Witch Project, but alas, it fell just a bit short. Still very intriguing, and shudder-worthy.

Standouts: A la Blair Witch Project, simple filmmaking works when trying to scare.
Blowouts: I have no doubt this won't be nearly as enjoyable on repeat viewings.

Grade: B