In the realm of shark-themed cinema, where the waters are often murky and the entertainment value is sometimes questionable, 'Above & Below' emerges as a refreshing breath of air. This 2026 film, as the review suggests, attempts to break free from the conventional formula, swapping the typical focus on sharks as the sole threat for a more complex dynamic involving both criminal elements and the ocean's predators.
What sets 'Above & Below' apart is its clever subversion of expectations. The premise, while not entirely original, is executed with a twist that keeps viewers engaged. The story centers around a group of friends embarking on a dream vacation, complete with shark diving and, unbeknownst to them, a group of criminals on their boat. The tension arises not just from the sharks but also from the criminals, creating a unique blend of danger and humor.
The review highlights the film's strength in its characters' stupidity, which is a delightful source of laughter. The actors, including Laura Marano and Antonio Banderas, deliver performances that are just bad enough to be entertaining without being cringeworthy. Banderas, in particular, shines as the charismatic crime boss, Burns, with a distorted perspective that adds a layer of unpredictability and humor to the narrative.
The special effects in 'Above & Below' are described as competent, with the sharks seamlessly integrated into the dark waters. While the reviewer wishes for a more practical approach, the current implementation is praised for its effectiveness in creating a sense of danger. The sharks, though not entirely sentient, are depicted as food-motivated, adding a touch of humor to the otherwise tense situations.
However, the review also points out a significant shortcoming: the lack of shark action. The sharks are treated as obstacles rather than the primary threat, and the characters' urgency seems to be directed more towards the criminals above than the sharks below. This imbalance leaves the viewer wanting more of the expected shark-on-the-prowl excitement.
Despite this, 'Above & Below' manages to be entertaining, thanks to its campy nature and the characters' lack of understanding of their dire situation. The film embraces silliness, allowing for moments of laughter amidst the potential danger. Yet, the tension is somewhat diluted by the characters' lack of likability, leading to a 'cheer when this person dies' type of experience.
In conclusion, 'Above & Below' is a shark film that knows how to have fun, offering a unique blend of humor and danger. While it may not be a masterpiece, it provides a welcome change from the typical shark movie formula, leaving audiences with a sense of enjoyment and a desire for more such entertaining B-movie experiences.
