Into the Deep

Seen it at Edwards 21 Cinemas, Irvine Spectrum, Irvine, California, U. S. A., August 11, 1997.

Outstanding IMAX theater with huge 1.43:1 screen, 1570 GT film projector and 6-channel surround sound system (1997).

My very first IMAX experience.

Awesome!

I'm definitely at odds with the other 30 reviewers, all male, who weighted this film's rating to a 4.9 to date. It's been several years since viewing, but I recall going back twice for the 3D sense it gave me of looking in on the lives of the "little" guys underwater. No, not terrifying great white sharks...the most "terrifying" scene is of a giant sun-fish sweeping down on other, tiny starfish, and their valiant attempts to flee. I laughed with the kids in the audience and put out my hand to "touch" the waving kelp that appeared to be just in front of my neighbour's head.

Of course, if years of Hollywood blockbusters has conditioned you to want big thunder and big blood, and you really can't stomach small wonders, don't bother with this...it's not for you. It's for kids at heart.

At first it looks like an underwater IMAX 3-D film, but then it turns into something awful! Though it is in 3-D, the picture quality (as in 3-D quality too) is kinda bad. The whole movie starts out good (C+ average) and then just flops by stuff an average person won't know by time they die! If you like all IMAX 3-D films go and see it. If you don't then don't waste your $7 on it.

Grade Average: D+

Into the Deep is an enjoyment of sight and sound. Filmed in 3-D Imax format. It felt like you moving through the ocean and the underwater wildlife coming towards you while sitting in your seat. I saw a few films in this format but the first time in 3-D. Hypnotize your eyes in wonder and amaze how vivid the colors of the sea look lifelike in 3-D. Well worth the price of admission.

I don't know what film some of the other reviewers have seen, but I've been to multiple IMAX theatres just to see "Into The Deep." The 3-D effects are excellent, as is the footage and the narration. You'd never think watching the short, happy lives of squid, waving kelp forests, or plankton floating by your eyes would be quite so mesmerising---but the filmmakers really pull it off. 9/10.