THE SHALLOWS (2106)

8/25/2016 - The Shallows (2016) - 3+/4-/10

I am a sucker for shark scares, and during the first 1/3 of the film it does an adequate job, leading me to believe this film might be decent. Unfortunately, despite the serviceable takeoff, the film stalls out and starts dropping like a rock until it finally reaches its ridiculous fiery collision of an end.

As I said, you get your standard post-Jaws ocean/shark drama, which is effective. The high point of the film may be when the inevitable shark attack occurs. It is gripping and artfully impactful. Over direction (so much unnecessary slow motion and visual complications for such a stripped down & basic story) and limp storytelling hamstring the movie until the overt ridiculousness derails it completely.

I believe they wanted Jaws/Open Water meets 127 Hours, and Lively does an ok job with what she has, but the film veers into Jaws 3/4 or even Deep Blue Sea territory, as so much happens that just belies belief.

The film can't help itself from "jumping the shark" and relegates itself to tired mediocrity.