Many films have tried to capture the success of Jaws, but few have gained as much attention as the 1999 shark film Deep Blue Sea, which recently became available for free streaming on Tubi starting November 1st.
Jaws, directed by Steven Spielberg, premiered in 1975 and is widely recognized as the foundational shark movie. It launched a popular subgenre of shark-themed horror films that continues to attract audiences today.
Directed by Renny Harlin, Deep Blue Sea is a sci-fi horror set in an isolated underwater research facility. Scientists searching for an Alzheimer’s cure suddenly face a deadly threat from three intelligent, genetically engineered mako sharks.
Initially dismissed by critics and audiences for its cheesy tone, clichéd script, and illogical plot, the movie holds a 60% critic score and a 40% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
While Deep Blue Sea is far from a cinematic masterpiece and unlikely to be ranked among the greatest shark movies, it is often unfairly criticized. At its core, the film is a fun, well-crafted monster movie filled with memorable and over-the-top scenes.
“Deep Blue Sea is a film whose primary goal is to entertain, and to that degree, it succeeds exceptionally well.”
Deep Blue Sea may not rival Jaws in prestige, but it remains an entertaining and engaging shark thriller appreciated for its excitement and clever moments.
Author’s summary: Deep Blue Sea, once dismissed, stands as a smartly crafted, entertaining shark thriller that deserves recognition beyond its flawed reputation.