Dead Sea

I understand the need for light and shade but the first 20 minutes of Dead Sea was so sickly sweet, I almost turned it off. However, stay on course and bloody action is lurking just around the corner.

When the first kill arrives, it hits you like a wet trout across the face and that's when things really change tack.

Although mostly set on a boat, there's some ingenious ways the action moves around, creating a somehow agoraphobic and claustrophobic setting all at once.

If you can suspend your disbelief, the premise and novel location make for a fun stalky slasher with some satisfying kills and suspenseful moments. Fans of nautical nightmare classics like Dead Calm (1989) and Triangle (2009) should jump on board Dead Sea.

Nick @WatchItWombat.

This compact thriller was written and directed by Phil Volken and I confess that watching his work was a positive surprise. Logically, one cannot expect deep philosophical musings or deep personal dramas from this film. It is assembled around a daring and risky youth adventure, but at the same time, it is irresistibly attractive to the adventurous spirit of these two couples. A trip across the open sea on powerful jet skis to a deserted island near the coast with a beautiful beach to spend a day of leisure, sun and budding romance.

But on the return trip an unfortunate accident occurs. The machines collide with each other and one of the young people dies instantly. The other Xander (Koa Tom) is seriously injured and requires medical attention. The two young women Kaya (Isabel Gravitt) and Tessa (Genneya Walton) struggle to stay afloat and assist their friend in a sea infested with sharks. Then, a miracle happens, a fishing boat appears with only one crew member on board, Rey (Alexander Wraith) and proceeds to rescue the castaways.

I won't spoil what happens on board this rickety and sinister ship. But here's what I liked about this film. Clear narrative, realistic natural images of the sea and its dangers and a desperate fight for survival that is more credible than in other stories of this genre. The cast was very well chosen and the two young girls showed promise, particularly due to the role she had in the outcome, the work of Isabel Gravitt was highlighted.

One of those films that starts off looking a bit like some cheesy coastal teenage love story, but seems that the movie crew really got into this story as the movie goes on and the tension builds. I love coming across a movie that looks like nothing but ends up with me cheering at the TV 😁

The first 20 minutes or so, although seeming a little tacky, was obviously done on purpose to intensify the story beyond. After a (maybe little far fetched) accident at sea, the tension really builds and continues to do so.

There are quite a few points where I just thought, "no way, that's..." and then I'm sucked back in, it's a real grower, worth a watch 🙌

Directed by Phil Volken, Dead Sea is a 2024 American crime-horror film that immerses viewers in a suspenseful tale set on the open ocean. The story follows Kaya (Isabel Gravitt) and her friends Tessa (Genneya Walton) and Xander, whose jet ski adventure turns tragic after a fatal accident. Stranded at sea, they are rescued by a seemingly benevolent fishing vessel captain, only to discover that their savior harbors a chilling secret.

Positive Aspects: I. Atmospheric Setting: The film effectively utilizes its maritime setting to build tension and a sense of isolation, contributing to the overall suspense.

II. Lead Performance: Isabel Gravitt delivers a compelling performance as Kaya, capturing the character's vulnerability and resilience in the face of mounting terror.

Negative Aspects: I. Predictable Plot: Critics have noted that the narrative follows familiar tropes of the genre, with plot twists that can be seen coming.

II. Character Development: Some reviews point out that supporting characters lack depth, making it challenging for audiences to form strong connections with them.

Final Verdict:

Dead Sea offers a suspenseful maritime horror experience with a strong lead performance and a tense atmosphere. However, its reliance on genre conventions and underdeveloped supporting characters may leave some viewers desiring a more original and emotionally engaging story. Fans of ocean-bound thrillers might find it a worthwhile watch, but those seeking innovative storytelling may find it lacking.

No pun intended - death is only the beginning could be a subtitle of the movie too by the way. But weird stuff aside, this starts off quite nicely ... and then sort of devolves and falls short later on. The lost at sea routine is one thing ... the cliches that come up when the inciting incident happens ... well I don't know what to say and call them, but they do not help or improve the movie.

I reckon this is not for sensitive people - then again the title might suggest that too. Acting is alright if you consider this being a low budget horror thriller - with some social commentary I guess ... but that is not the main point. It is about the female main characters and their ... struggle ... dare I say trying to swim out of a crazy situation ... is that a pun? Well it is for this movie.