Dead Sea

It begins like half a dozen movies. Then it ends like half a million other movies. I will call it "Spitting on your Open Water Grave".

There are dumb kids doing irresponsible things that get them into trouble. Yeah, there is an early twist. Doesn't make the movie's new direction any better though. It just goes from one irritating sub-genre to another. Then it's mostly creepy and drawn-out.

The one okay thing about the whole affair is that Dean Cameron, who so eloquently played Chainsaw in the 80's classic Summer School, has found work - albeit in a role that they clearly offered to Kim Bodnia but had to settle on a lookalike for instead.

You are not missing much if you fast-forward through this or skip it altogether. The one boat's name was Haleh.

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.

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.

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.

If you can "ignore" the begin of this movie and parts of the end, the movie is pretty good actually. ENJOY

The begin is super teenager dumb, classic two friends when one of them is in a bad time of his life and the another one give a bracelet friendship bla bla bla

But they will do a adventure together and everything will change.....

And I will tell you almost everything here about this beginning part for you who are reading don't give up when u are watching if you really like this kind of survival movie...

When the action and the tension starts, the movie change for a really good movie to the gender.

Everything change: the acting turns in to a better one, looks like almost the directing or photography change.

And for the and, well let's say: the movie could be 5 minutos less.