Top 36 Best Shark Movies To Watch

 

Ever since filmmaker Steven Spielberg’s ‘Jaws’ hit the screens worldwide back in 1975, the audience has been enamored by the sight of the mighty sharks on celluloid.

 

However, the success of the motion picture soon ended up typecasting sharks as malicious villains and human-eating predators.

 

Needless to say, the notoriously intense, gory, and campy shark features went on to amass a mini-cult following of their own among cinema enthusiasts over time.

 

So, even if there were only 73 unprovoked shark bites recorded globally in 2021, there have been a plethora of shark movies to seek your teeth into over the years.

 

Sharks are, of course, fast and smart, and do their best to maintain the balance in ecosystems. While they do not have bones, they certainly have teeth sharp enough to crush yours at will.

 

That said, what’s most fascinating about them is that they are somewhat intimidated by the comparatively friendly dolphins. This is because the dolphins are marked by their superior intelligence and incredible speed, which makes it tough for a shark to catch them.

 

Be that as it may, sharks are apex predators and, therefore, play an integral role in the health of marine ecosystems. As you’d have guessed, they create and maintain the balance by eating fish.

 

Unsurprisingly, the aforementioned facts only make an average shark-obsessed viewer want to sit through intense thrillers and pulpy horror flicks. In fact, you’ll realize that some of them are even open to enjoying a ton of ridiculous titles featuring the massive creature.

 

So, while there are plenty of shark films out there, not all of them are worthy of being mentioned in our story.

 

As a matter of fact, most of the projects are often loaded with outdated special effects and cheap gore; both of which cease to provide any excitement to the shark fanatics today.

 

Nonetheless, we have come up with a story that comprises both stirring survival flicks and family dramas that aim to do justice to the sub-genre.

 

Even though some of these credits will instill the natural fear of the unknown in you, there also are several additions that will duly inform you about the characteristics and significance of sharks as a part of our ecosystem.

 

 

 

1. Finding Nemo (2003)

 

 

Helmed for the screen by Andrew Stanton, this critically and commercially successful computer-animated comedy-drama adventure motion picture is definitely worth watching.

 

The screenplay tracks the journey of a timid clownfish who takes the help of a forgetful fish to embark on a journey to bring back his son, who has been abducted from the Great Barrier Reef and dispatched to Sydney.

 

Finding Nemo, which became the highest-grossing animated title at the time of its theatrical release, was also nominated for three deserving Academy Awards.

 

It ended up winning the trophy for Best Animated Feature; thus, becoming the first Pixar project ever to do so.

 

This breathtakingly wonderful feature will make you connect with the creatures of the seas more than you might want to connect with the people around you.

 

 

 

2. Jaws (1975)

 

 

This all-time classic is credited with launching the successful career of Steven Spielberg and, consequently, turning him into one of the most inspiring filmmakers in cinema history.

 

The story tracks the journey of a police chief, a marine scientist, and a fisherman, who come together after a white shark ends up terrorizing the inhabitants of a quiet island named Amity.

 

Even though the production of Jaws was a tad rocky, the title went on to become one of the most influential blockbusters of all time.

 

The film, which spawned multiple sequels, was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and went on to win three of them.

 

Also, it is no secret that the success of Jaws ended up hurting the reputation of sharks forever.

 

 

 

3. This Is Your Ocean: Sharks (2011)

 

 

In this documentary, three of the world’s top artists do their best to shatter your preconceived notions about sharks.

 

You get to dive into the spectacular world of sharks and discover that they might actually not be as despicable and dangerous as the many motion pictures across the globe show them to be.

 

In the process, you also get a glimpse of the crystal clear waters of the Bahamas, which is one of the last shark sanctuaries on the planet.

 

Moreover, as you sit through this feature, you’ll understand why it’s vital to protect the ocean’s remaining sharks.

 

 

 

4. Sharkwater (2006)

 

 

This documentary feature is dedicated to those who share an affinity for Planet Earth. It follows an investigation that aims to cast light on how significant the existence of sharks is to the ecosystem.

 

However, on the flip side, the makers also track how humankind’s actions have unfortunately led to the mass destruction of shark species worldwide.

 

While the focus is rightfully on sharks, Sharkwater also provides its viewers with an opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful places on the planet.

 

What truly stands out about this documentary, however, is the fact that it goes on to bust a lot of myths about sharks.

 

 

5. Mission Blue (2014)

 

 

This documentary provides you with an opportunity to get acquainted with the life and work of oceanographer, marine biologist, and environmentalist Sylvia Earle.

 

It showcases her seeking out whale sharks and getting involved in a much-needed discussion about ocean conservation, all while aiming to raise public awareness about marine protected areas known as Hope Spots.

 

Earle’s journey is dedicated to travelling the world to let people know that it is extremely important to save the oceans and seas from both overfishing and toxic waste.

 

As viewers, we empathize with her and understand her relentless endeavour to fight for the lives under the sea.

 

 

6. Sharkwater Extinction (2018)

 

 

Written and directed by Rob Stewart, this documentary tells a thought-provoking story that tries to expose the illegal fishing industry and the inevitable threats that it poses to the survival of sharks.

 

While it certainly does end up changing our stereotypical opinion of sharks, Sharkwater Extinction also proves to be an informative watch.

 

This visually arresting feature traces one man’s journey of trying his best to make the people aware of the dangers of illegal fishing and how it hampers the water world.

 

Needless to mention, Sharkwater Extinction is as emotional as it is relevant.

 

 

7. Of Shark and Man (2015)

 

 

This documentary feature tells the story of a thirty-two-year-old man who seems to be caught up in a dead-end job in England’s industrial north.

 

With his life seemingly going nowhere, he takes a call to risk everything to tell an inspiring, untold story; one that would find him in the middle of sixty of the world’s most dangerous sharks.

 

Stunningly beautiful and daring, this rather underrated passion project is a genuine love letter to not only Planet Earth but also the terror-inducing sharks.

 

The feature aims to tell a man’s journey of striving to get as close as possible to the world’s biggest bull sharks. It is a must-see for shark and sea aficionados.

 

 

8. Playing with Sharks (2021)

 

 

Photographer Valerie Taylor has been a true pioneer in both underwater filmmaking and shark research. An icon of the underwater world, she takes the onus on herself to inform a rather misinformed world about sharks.

 

In fact, it’d be safe to say that a lot of what we know about the misunderstood creatures today has been made possible due to her extraordinary efforts.

 

Therefore, Playing with Sharks not only helps us follow Taylor’s daring expeditions but also allows us to witness how passionate a shark protector she is.

 

 

9. Finding Dory (2016)

 

 

In this direct sequel to Finding Nemo, director Andrew Stanton makes sure to introduce us to an amnesiac blue tang fish, Dory, who only has fuzzy memories of her past.

 

However, she decides to set off in search of her long-lost parents with the help of her friends, clownfish Marlin and his beloved son Nemo.

 

During the course of the storytelling, we also see Dory encountering one of her childhood friends Destiny, who happens to be a nearsighted whale shark.

 

Finding Dory set numerous records at the box office and turned out to be the third-highest-grossing feature film of 2016.

 

The computer-animated comedy-drama adventure was a thought-provoking and humorous film project that added a rather poignant chapter to its predecessor’s journey.

 

 

10. Kon-Tiki (2012)

 

 

Helmed for the screen by Joachim Rønning and Espen Sandberg, this adventure historical drama motion picture tracks the journey of Thor Heyerdahl, who decides to undertake a 4300-mile voyage across the Pacific Ocean using a balsawood raft.

 

His sole aim is to verify his theory on Polynesian ancestry. However, he ends up meeting obstacles in the form of storms, sharks, and other perils during the course of his journey.

 

Nominated for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film at the 85th Academy Awards, Kon-Tiki was the top-grossing feature of Norway in 2012 and also the most expensive project produced in the country to date.

 

 

11. The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou (2004)

 

 

Ardent fans of cinema are well and truly aware of the fact that filmmaker Wes Anderson’s projects are known for their aesthetic appeal and staging, irrespective of what the genre is.

 

Many would be glad to learn that The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou follows the exact tropes that distinguish his work from other mainstream directors.

 

This motion picture traces the journey of Steve Zissou and his partner who seem to be working on a documentary.

 

However, after the latter gets killed by a shark under mysterious circumstances, Steve and his team set off on an expedition to hunt down the predator and avenge their friend’s untimely death.

 

There is a possibility that you might not find this cult classic in any other story on shark movies.

 

Nevertheless, its storyline depicts Bill Murray’s relentless quest to find and destroy a jaguar shark; therefore ascertaining that this flick deserves a place on our list.

 

 

12. Blue Water, White Death (1971)

 

 

Can there be anything more exciting for shark enthusiasts than stumbling upon a documentary whose focus is entirely on the great white sharks?

 

Directed by Peter Gimbel and James Lipscomb, Blue Water, White Death was released to favourable reviews and was appreciated for the excitement that it was able to generate among those who saw it.

 

The title, which was broadcast on television at various times during the 1970s and 1980s, does not strive to diminish the reputation of sharks; something that one must give the makers credit for.

 

 

13. Soul Surfer (2011)

 

 

This Sean McNamara directorial venture is as much a shark movie as it is a heartfelt family drama. The story follows a young surf champion, Bethany, who, unfortunately, ends up losing an arm after getting brutally attacked by a shark while surfing.

 

While all may feel lost, her unbreakable faith in God, her family, and her friends help her in being strong enough to surf again.

 

Based on Bethany Hamilton’s autobiography, titled Soul Surfer: A True Story of Faith, Family, and Fighting to Get Back on the Board, Soul Surfer tells an inspirational tale that has been executed in the most authentic manner for the big screen audience.

 

 

14. The Shallows (2016)

 

 

Director Jaume Collet-Serra introduces us to the gutsy and gorgeous Nancy Adams, who travels to a desolate beach following the demise of her beloved mother.

 

She decides to go surfing without realizing that a great white shark is lurking in the vicinity. Needless to say, we see Nancy getting attacked and fighting for her life.

 

Soon enough, she is left stranded on a rock some 200 yards from the shore with absolutely no one around to lend her a helping hand.

 

Even though the premise of The Shallows is pretty straightforward, its execution is aided by Jaume Collet-Serra’s diligent direction and Blake Lively’s effective performance; each of which helps in making the film a must-watch for the ardent fans of shark attack features.

 

 

15. Tiger Shark (1932)

 

 

This classic feature film from the early 1930s tells the story of a tuna fisherman, Mike, who, despite losing a hand in a shark attack, decides to continue working.

 

However, after a young fisherman is killed in a shark attack, Mike takes the responsibility to deliver the news to his only family member, who happens to be his sister.

 

This American pre-Code melodrama romantic film is arguably the most distinctive mainstream project to make it to our list, and that is precisely why shark enthusiasts need to give it a try.

 

 

16. Shark Nation (2013)

 

 

Shark Nation is a documentary feature that does a commendable job of elucidating that the shark population in the world has declined by more than 90 per cent; primarily due to overfishing in the oceans.

 

However, it also lets its viewers know that there is still perhaps one place in the world that, thankfully, comprises a healthy ecosystem for sharks, and that is the Bahamas.

 

Thanks to the strong laws that are dedicated to the protection of sharks in these waters, the creatures have really been found to prosper in the region in the true sense of the word.

 

So, we suggest that you give this feature a try as it is a satisfactory attempt at showing what happens when people try to protect sharks.

 

 

17. Rise of The Great White Shark (2017)

 

 

Rise of The Great White Shark aims to depict the phenomenal rise of the Great White Shark some 11 million years ago, following a string of dramatic transitions that transpired in Earth’s oceans and climate.

 

The documentary familiarizes the viewers with the rich history of the great white shark by adding ample footage of the almost mythical creature.

 

Aside from the obvious, it also brings to light a ton of details about other sea life such as seals.

 

It is not surprising then that this feature was an outcome of a decade of ambitious filming.

 

 

18. 21st Century Shark (2008)

 

 

This is a documentary about a shark that is as fearsome a hunter as it could possibly be. So, allow us to familiarize you with the daring Tiger Shark who is capable of attacking and swallowing almost any target it sets its eyes on.

 

However, even though shark has teeth that can bite into and eat almost anything, they still happen to be in danger in today’s age and world.

 

Needless to mention, 21st Century Shark takes an important step in exploring the lives and communities of Tiger Sharks; all while emphasizing the environmental pressures that have started to cost these creatures their very lives.

 

 

19. Sharks 3D (2004)

 

 

Sharks 3D is yet another noteworthy attempt by oceanographer Jean-Michel Cousteau to come face-to-face with a variety of the ocean’s ultimate predators.

 

Not only do we get to see the infamous white sharks here but there is ample footage of hammerhead and whale sharks as well.

 

Even though one might feel that it may carry basic information about the lions and tigers of the ocean, Sharks 3D works best if you allow yourself to just flow with its crisp runtime; all while soaking in the knowledge that it provides.

 

 

20. Shark Tale (2004)

 

 

This computer-animated feature film traces the journey of an underachieving fish who falsely claims to have slaughtered the son of a shark mob boss.

 

The fish claims so with the aim to command respect in his community. In order to keep up with the masquerade, he even teams up with the mobster’s other son Lenny.

 

Even though Shark Tale opened to mixed reviews from film critics, it was nominated for Best Animated Feature at the 77th Academy Awards.

 

It features the voices of stalwarts such as Will Smith, Robert De Niro, Renée Zellweger, Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, and Martin Scorsese.

 

 

21. Shark Dive (2015)

 

 

While you may never really dream of getting up, close and personal with sharks in the real world, you do get to do it via your respective television screens.

 

All thanks to famed cinematographer Andy Brandy Casagrande, this feature endeavours to depict what these underwater creatures are really like to its awestruck viewers.

 

What is worth mentioning about Shark Dive is that it has almost entirely been shot underwater. Needless to say, we get to see some breathtaking shots of not just the sharks but also elephant seals, sea lions, and manatees, respectively.

 

 

22. Galapagos: Realm of Giant Sharks (2012)

 

 

This 53-minute-long documentary feature is one that will find appreciation among underwater life enthusiasts.

 

The viewers get to see the waters around the Galapagos islands populated by massive sharks.

 

That said, what led to the making of this documentary was the fact that the scientists wished to examine what it is really that brings all these giant whale sharks to this specific location in such large numbers.

 

 

23. Zombie (1979)

 

 

Even though it isn’t technically a shark movie, Zombie has one specific scene which justifies its presence on our list.

 

The motion picture tells the story of a group of strangers who seem to be looking for a young woman’s father who has been missing for quite some time.

 

Together, they arrive at a tropical island; one where they chance upon a doctor who appears to be desperately searching for the cause and cure of a recent epidemic of the undead.

 

The sole reason we decided to welcome this Italian feature film to our list is that it includes an underwater setting in which a zombie can be seen fighting a shark.

 

This particular sequence from the movie even went on to garner a ton of views on YouTube.

 

 

24. Deep Blue Sea (1999)

 

 

This Renny Harlin-helmed motion picture depicts the many messy ways in which a bunch of super-smart sharks can attack people.

 

The story outlines the journey of a group of researchers who do their very best to find a long-due cure for Alzheimer’s disease.

 

However, they decide to excel by relying a bit too much on the process of modifying shark brains genetically.

 

Needless to mention, the genetically modified creatures turn smart enough to hunt down the very people who ended up giving them an edge.

 

Deep Blue Sea, which stars the ultra-cool Samuel L. Jackson in a pivotal role, provides its viewers with interminable entertainment.

 

However, besides Jackson’s performance, there are quite a few sequences that keep this science fiction horror feature going.

 

 

25. Jaws 2 (1978)

 

 

While Jaws was an instant classic and a box office blockbuster, Jaws 2 is, at best, amusing enough to find a spot in our story.

 

The plot traces the journey of the shocked residents of Amity who are, yet again, forced to face a man-eating shark who begins to lurk on the seemingly safe beaches of the town.

 

Even though the motion picture opened to strictly mixed reviews, it was more than welcomed by the fans of the first instalment.

 

That said, the tagline of this feature, “Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the water…” has become one of the most popular ones in the history of mainstream filmmaking.

 

It is not surprising then that it has been parodied several times by cinema enthusiasts all over.

 

 

26. Open Water (2003)

 

 

Partially based on the true story of Tom and Eileen Lonergan, Open Water aims to track the journey of a couple who decides to go on a scuba diving trip.

 

However, the unthinkable happens when the boat that they were on forgets to haul them back and, thus, leaves them stranded in the ocean.

 

Needless to say, the couple soon discovers that they are actually in shark-infested waters. While Open Water does its best to underscore the horrors of a shark attack, it gives equal importance to the subplot that shows the couple struggling to survive at sea.

 

Given the fact that this hellish situation did occur for a real-life pair, it does give the feature film an edge and makes the viewers relate to the tragedy.

 

 

27. The Reef (2010)

 

 

Luke may be looking forward to sailing to Indonesia with his friends. But, neither he nor his pals on the boat would be hoping for it to ever capsize.

 

Alas, they can’t stop the inevitable from happening! In order to survive, a few members see no other option but to risk swimming to a nearby island to fetch help.

 

However, their plan is thwarted when a great white shark starts trailing them relentlessly. Based on the true story of Ray Boundy’s shark attack experience from 1983, The Reef strives to focus on what one could do if one finds themselves in a situation as cumbersome and life-threatening as depicted in this movie.

 

 

28. 47 Meters Down (2017)

 

 

This motion picture introduces us to two sisters, played by actors Mandy Moore and Claire Holt, who go cage diving on a rather structurally-questionable boat.

 

However, their vacation soon turns into a total disaster after they end up getting trapped in a diving cage underwater.

 

If that isn’t frightening enough for you, you soon catch them stumbling upon predatorial sharks.

 

While the sequel seems inclined towards showcasing violent shark attacks, 47 Meters Down believes in building the tension satisfactorily, which is exactly why it’s the better film.

 

Needless to mention, a fair amount of suspension of disbelief is required for shark enthusiasts to truly enjoy this one for what it’s worth.

 

 

29. Seal Team (2021)

 

 

What happens when an audacious seal named Quinn brings together a squad of misfit recruits to stand up to ruthless sharks with razor-sharp teeth? A whole lot of fun in the middle of the open sea, which, of course, they plan to reclaim in due course of time.

 

Seal Team has been mounted on a moderate budget and feels like it’s too fluid in some areas while too stiff in others. However, it is humorous enough to make you sit through its runtime, even though not every joke lands.

 

Also, a lot of you can feel that this above-average animated flick serves as a parody of the trademark “men of mission” formula.

 

 

30. The Meg (2018)

 

 

Action star Jason Statham is known for his stylized and over-the-top action flicks. Here, he can be seen headlining a different kind of actioner; one that sees him take on a goddam shark!

 

This mildly entertaining movie showcases how Statham’s Jonas Taylor, a competent deep-sea diver, is hired to save the members of an underwater research facility from a 75-foot prehistoric shark.

 

While The Meg is certainly not among the finest shark motion pictures out there, you’d be amazed to learn that it is, in fact, one of the top-grossing shark attack projects of all time.

 

 

31. U.S.S. Indianapolis: Men Of Courage (2016)

 

 

Who would have thought that in a mainstream motion picture headlined by the talented Nicolas Cage, it’d be sharks and a war setting that would turn out to be the centre of attraction?

 

The story follows the fate of an American navy ship that is taken down by a torpedo launched by a Japanese submarine during the Second World War.

 

We see how the Navy officers struggle to survive as their ship sinks in the shark-infested waters. Even though the premise is of a shark feature, this Mario Van Peebles directorial venture does a fair job of exuding the vibe of a war epic that emphasizes the sinking of the U. S. S. Indianapolis.

 

 

32. Bait (2012)

 

 

Fans who are more than willing to try a fun creature feature might just end up relishing Bait on a trippy Sunday evening.

 

The motion picture illustrates how a freak tsunami ends up trapping local shoppers and residents at a coastal Australian supermarket inside a building.

 

While the tsunami is a challenge big enough, the people within the establishment get the shock of their lives when they figure that they also have to deal with a deadly and unwanted visitor. 

 

Yep, your guess is as good as ours for that guest is none other than a 12-foot Great White Shark.

 

Bait thrives on its eclectic cast of characters, solid visual effects, and crisp editing. So, if you’d really like to see a shark preying on a bunch of Aussies, this might turn out to be the film of the day for you.

 

 

33. Meg 2: The Trench (2023)

 

 

Meg 2: The Trench serves as the direct sequel to the 2018 hit The Meg. It stars the charming action hero Jason Statham in the lead and opened to strictly average reviews at the ticket windows.

 

As the story proceeds, we catch a research team encountering multiple threats while exploring what the deep blue ocean has in store for them.

 

Sooner than later, we notice the entire unit not only withstanding the threats posed by a malevolent mining operation but also a deadly shark.

 

While the motion picture does carry a few sequences that can excite the viewer, the fun is hampered by a terrible story that seems to have been put together just for the sake of it. Worse still, it takes a bit too long to deliver on the thrills it promises in its trailer.

 

 

34. Open Water 2: Adrift (2006)

 

 

There is always something happening in this fast-paced Hans Horn directorial venture, which introduces us to a group of friends who decide to go on a weekend cruise.

 

What’s supposed to be an adventure turns into the biggest nightmare of their lives as they are left stranded in the middle of the ocean after going for a swim.

 

While there are a number of things to criticize here, we can assure you that you won’t really feel bored throughout its runtime.

 

If nothing else, watch for the excitement and for its attempt to showcase how fragile and scared human beings can get under the stress of any sort.

 

 

35. 47 Meters Down: Uncaged (2019)

 

 

A group of four teenage girls decides to go on a mission to explore an underwater Mayan settlement. However, a trip that promises to be adventurous turns out to be dreadful after they accidentally enter the enclave where the great white sharks prey.

 

This Johannes Roberts-helmed feature film adopts a similar concept and sense of claustrophobia as The Descent. And, even though its a sequel to 47 Meters Down, it barely has anything in common with it.

 

While 47 Meters Down: Uncaged does not carry a fresh concept or plot structure to make a splash, it can be seen at least once courtesy of the director’s undeniable efforts at making a shark movie.

 

 

36. The Shark Hunter (1979)

 

 

Director Enzo G. Castellari’s Italian adventure drama film tells the story of a reclusive person on a Caribbean island, who seems to be hell-bent on destroying sharks for some reason.

 

Soon after, he gets himself involved in a hunt for buried treasure. But, will he be able to get his hands on it?

 

Also known as Guardians of the Deep, this project will certainly not find any takers among those who have dedicated their lives to the protection of sharks and the aquatic ecosystem.