In the realm of shark-themed cinema, where the waters have often been murky and the entertainment factor lacking, 'Above & Below' emerges as a refreshing breath of air. This 2026 film, as the review suggests, attempts to break free from the conventional formula, presenting a unique twist on the age-old shark-attack narrative. It's a movie that dares to be different, and in doing so, it finds a way to be genuinely enjoyable.
The premise is simple: a group of friends embarks on a dream vacation, combining the thrill of shark diving with the allure of a party. However, their idyllic getaway takes a sinister turn when they find themselves sharing the boat with a group of criminals. The story then becomes a high-stakes game of cat and mouse, both above and below the water's surface. This blend of genres, while not entirely original, is executed with a certain charm that sets it apart.
What makes 'Above & Below' particularly entertaining is the portrayal of its characters. The friends, despite their good intentions, are portrayed as somewhat dim-witted, making decisions that are both laughable and ill-advised. This stupidity, as the review points out, becomes a source of humor, and the actors, including Laura Marano and Antonio Banderas, manage to strike a balance between bad decisions and likable personalities. Banderas, in particular, shines as the charismatic crime boss, Burns, bringing a twisted sense of humor and unpredictability to the screen.
The film's special effects, or 'Shark FX,' are described as competent and well-hidden, blending seamlessly into the darkness of the ocean. While the reviewer wishes for a more practical approach, the sharks are depicted as food-motivated rather than sentient beings, which adds to the campy and entertaining nature of the film. The gunshots, ironically, cause more chaos and death than the shark attacks, creating a unique and darkly humorous contrast.
However, the review also highlights a critical aspect: the film's lack of tension due to the characters' lack of urgency in the face of danger. The sharks, despite being handled well, are not the primary threat, and the characters' ignorance of the situation's severity dilutes the intended suspense. This leads to a 'cheer when this person dies' mentality, which, while entertaining, might not be the intended emotional response.
In conclusion, 'Above & Below' is a B-movie that knows how to have fun, embracing the silliness of its premise. It offers a unique twist on the shark-attack genre, with competent special effects and a memorable cast of characters. While it may not be a masterpiece, it is a refreshing addition to the ocean monster cinema, providing a good dose of campy entertainment that might just leave you laughing and wanting more.
