Water has the power to not only inspire and induce fear but also corrupt. It is not surprising then that its sovereignty and capability can never be disputed, no matter the conflicts.
However, water and water bodies have been put to a decent use through various means and sources.
One of the most remarkable ways to utilize the power of water is through a thrilling projection of oceans and seas on celluloid.
And, if the aim is to depict an ocean and construct a plot around it, the outcome is seldom uneventful.
Since a lot many motion pictures strive to use isolation and a foreign atmosphere to attain the desired impact, the on-screen portrayal of large water bodies works like magic.
This is not only because oceans carry the complexity of being both haunting and beautiful at the same time but also because an ocean continues to remain an ocean even when it is resting in silence.
Therefore, the portrayal of large water bodies in several aquatic-themed features have managed to gain a lot of traction over the years.
This compels us to bring to you a story on some of the finest underwater and aquatic-themed motion pictures to have ever hit the screens.
AdventureMysteryThriller
Director:
Steven Spielberg
Release Date:
Fri Jun 20 1975
Star Cast:
Roy Scheider, Robert Shaw, Richard Dreyfuss
Budget:
$7,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$476,512,065
Widely regarded as the most iconic aquatic horror film ever made, Jaws masterfully builds suspense, delivering thrilling moments that remain unforgettable to this day.
Directed by Steven Spielberg, this groundbreaking movie truly redefined the underwater horror genre and set new standards for cinematic storytelling and special effects.
Even after decades, Jaws continues to captivate audiences, creating a sense of dread and excitement. The narrative follows a police chief, a marine biologist, and a seasoned fisherman as they team up to protect their island community from a menacing great white shark.
This classic not only marked a major technological advancement for Hollywood, but it also remains a perennial favorite among millions of viewers worldwide.
As one of the most recognized films ever produced, Jaws popularized the "man versus nature" storyline, thrilling audiences and instilling a lasting wariness about swimming in the ocean.
Film enthusiasts will also appreciate that Jaws set the precedent for releasing major blockbuster films during the summer, forever changing the cinematic calendar.
Recommended:
AnimationAdventureFamily
Director:
Ron Clements, John Musker
Release Date:
Fri Nov 17 1989
Star Cast:
Jodi Benson, Samuel E. Wright, Rene Auberjonois
Budget:
$40,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$211,343,479
Directed by John Musker and Ron Clements, "The Little Mermaid" revitalized Disney's animation legacy following a series of less memorable releases in the 1980s. The film is widely recognized for ushering in a new era of Disney classics.
Jodi Benson's exceptional vocal performance brings Princess Ariel to life, while a memorable villain and a mesmerizing score by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken contribute significantly to the movie's lasting appeal.
The film's iconic soundtrack continues to enchant audiences decades later. The story centers on the determined Ariel, who strikes a risky deal with the cunning sea witch Ursula in hopes of winning the heart of Prince Eric.
Unaware of Ursula's ulterior motives, Ariel quickly finds herself swept into deeper trouble, reflecting the depths of her infatuation with Eric. Praised for its stunning animation, unforgettable music, and well-developed characters, "The Little Mermaid" remains both a critical and commercial triumph.
AnimationAdventureComedy
Director:
Ron Clements, John Musker, Don Hall
Release Date:
Wed Nov 23 2016
Star Cast:
Auli'i Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson, Rachel House
Budget:
$150,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$687,228,908
Directed by Ron Clements and John Musker, "Moana" is a visually stunning computer-animated musical adventure inspired by rich Polynesian traditions. To preserve cultural authenticity, the film features melodies recorded with native instruments and multiple languages spoken in the region.
The music not only brings Moana’s vibrant world to life but also deepens character development. The story centers on Moana, the courageous daughter of her village chief, who bravely sets out to return a mystical relic to the goddess Te Fiti.
Moana’s quest begins when the island's plants and fish begin to die off from a mysterious blight, compelling her to restore balance. The film was met with widespread critical acclaim and became a major global box office success.
ActionAdventureDrama
Director:
J.C. Chandor
Release Date:
Fri Oct 25 2013
Star Cast:
Robert Redford
Budget:
$9,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$13,627,519
All Is Lost chronicles the gripping journey of a man who embarks on a solo sailing adventure. After his yacht collides with a stray shipping container, he faces relentless storms and must summon all his strength to survive the ordeal.
As resources dwindle, desperation sets in. Directed by J. C. Chandor and starring Robert Redford, the film relies heavily on its immersive atmosphere to convey emotion and tension.
Remarkably, the screenplay uses only 51 spoken English words, making its storytelling uniquely powerful. The film earned an Oscar nomination for Best Sound Editing and secured the Golden Globe Award for Best Original Score.
Recommended:
AdventureDramaFamily
Director:
Richard Fleischer
Release Date:
Wed Jul 20 1955
Star Cast:
Kirk Douglas, James Mason, Paul Lukas
Budget:
$9,000,000 (estimated)
Directed by Richard Fleischer, "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea" features Kirk Douglas, James Mason, Paul Lukas, and Peter Lorre in pivotal roles. The film is a cinematic adaptation of Jules Verne's 1870 classic novel, "Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Seas."
The story follows a ship dispatched to investigate a mysterious series of sinkings, only to encounter the revolutionary submarine Nautilus, commanded by the enigmatic Captain Nemo. Their adventure soon unfolds into a thrilling exploration beneath the waves.
This vibrant Technicolor science fiction adventure stands out as one of the earliest major films to utilize CinemaScope technology, enhancing its visual spectacle and immersive experience.
As a result, "20,000 Leagues Under the Sea" remains a must-watch classic, captivating audiences with its groundbreaking visuals and enduring sense of wonder.
AdventureDramaFantasy
Director:
Ang Lee
Release Date:
Wed Nov 21 2012
Star Cast:
Suraj Sharma, Irrfan Khan, Adil Hussain
Budget:
$120,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$609,016,565
While not strictly an underwater film, Life of Pi is undeniably one of the most visually stunning movies centered around a vast expanse of water.
Adapted from Yann Martel's acclaimed 2001 novel, the film is masterfully brought to life by director Ang Lee.
Life of Pi captivates viewers with its breathtaking visuals and impeccable craftsmanship, offering a unique experience that sets it apart from typical water-themed thrillers filled with sharks or piranhas.
The story follows young Pi Patel as he embarks on a remarkable journey for survival, stranded on a lifeboat alongside a Bengal tiger and a hyena in the middle of the ocean.
The shipwreck sequence early in the film delivers an unforgettable and truly harrowing underwater moment.
Despite its brilliance, Life of Pi is seldom discussed by critics and movie enthusiasts today.
Nonetheless, the film features an array of beautifully shot scenes that brilliantly bring this extraordinary tale to life.
DramaRomance
Director:
James Cameron
Release Date:
Fri Dec 19 1997
Star Cast:
Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Winslet, Billy Zane
Budget:
$200,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$2,264,743,305
James Cameron's masterpiece, Titanic, stands as one of the most iconic films ever made and is an essential entry on our underwater movie list. Despite being released over two decades ago, it continues to rank among the highest-grossing films of all time, renowned for its breathtaking underwater scenes.
Director Cameron personally dived 12 times to the real Titanic wreck, striving to capture the haunting majesty of the ship as it rests beneath the ocean. Many underwater scenes at the film’s outset seamlessly blend footage of the actual wreck with meticulously constructed sets.
The submerged sets were expertly crafted to immerse audiences in the story. True to the film’s authenticity, footage displayed on the crew monitors within the narrative showcases genuine images from Cameron’s dives.
Beyond its technical brilliance, Titanic masterfully weaves the tragic true story of the ill-fated vessel with an unforgettable romance. The film follows Rose, a reserved, aristocratic young woman, as she falls passionately for artist Jack Dawson during their voyage.
The film’s success rocketed Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet to international stardom, making Titanic a cinematic legend in both romance and underwater adventure genres.
ActionAdventureFantasy
Director:
James Cameron
Release Date:
Fri Dec 16 2022
Star Cast:
Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldana, Sigourney Weaver
Budget:
$350,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$2,320,250,281
James Cameron once again demonstrates his mastery, showing that storytelling with heart resonates deeply with audiences. Using cutting-edge technology, he creates a visually breathtaking experience, blending stunning effects with a narrative centered on family bonds.
This highly-anticipated sequel showcases Cameron's lifelong fascination with the ocean and his commitment to uncovering the mysteries beneath the waves. "Avatar: The Way of Water" invites viewers to experience Pandora in a unique and immersive way, emphasizing exploration and wonder.
The remarkable 3D visuals and emotionally engaging story easily allow audiences to overlook the film's minor imperfections. It's in this captivating blend of spectacle and sentiment that Cameron's true strengths as a filmmaker are revealed.
"The Way of Water" leaves a lasting impression, thanks not only to its awe-inspiring underwater sequences but also to the heartfelt subplot featuring the bond between Lo'ak and Payakan. This dynamic adds a layer of warmth and connection that enhances the film's impact.
While some viewers noted the story's simplicity, the meticulously crafted action scenes and breathtaking visuals made for an unforgettable cinematic experience. The film's outstanding technical achievements and emotional moments helped secure its place among the most memorable underwater adventures.
AdventureDramaMystery
Director:
James Cameron
Release Date:
Wed Aug 9 1989
Star Cast:
Ed Harris, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Michael Biehn
Budget:
$70,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$90,520,202
When the US Navy submarine USS Montana, carrying 156 crew members, mysteriously vanishes after a collision with an unidentified submerged object, hope for its recovery swiftly fades.
Fearing a threat to national security, the United States government dispatches a SEAL team to Deep Core, a privately-owned underwater drilling platform, to join forces with its crew in searching for possible survivors.
The story intensifies as these two teams—each bringing a unique approach—must collaborate to neutralize a potential danger beneath the waves.
Director James Cameron’s lifelong fascination with the mysteries of the ocean comes alive in this thrilling masterpiece, revealing what lies beneath the vast blue frontier.
Outstanding performances, a grippingly claustrophobic setting, and top-tier visual effects and sound design all contribute to the film’s remarkable atmosphere.
"The Abyss" stands out as one of the most breathtaking alien invasion stories on screen, offering a uniquely thought-provoking portrayal of extraterrestrial life.
ActionAdventureDrama
Director:
Ronald Neame
Release Date:
Wed Dec 13 1972
Star Cast:
Gene Hackman, Ernest Borgnine, Shelley Winters
Budget:
$5,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$84,563,118
"The Poseidon Adventure" is a classic American disaster film directed by Ronald Neame and adapted from Paul Gallico's acclaimed 1969 novel. The movie assembles a remarkable ensemble cast, including Oscar winners Gene Hackman, Ernest Borgnine, Jack Albertson, Shelley Winters, and Red Buttons.
The plot follows a grand passenger ship en route from New York to Greece. On New Year's Eve, catastrophe strikes as a colossal tidal wave overturns the vessel, creating chaos and devastation for those on board.
Most passengers meet a tragic fate, but a handful manage to survive the disaster. Their ordeal, however, is far from over. Will their luck carry them through the challenges ahead? Dive in to find out.
ActionAdventureThriller
Director:
Terence Young
Release Date:
Wed Dec 22 1965
Star Cast:
Sean Connery, Claudine Auger, Adolfo Celi
Budget:
$9,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$63,607,066
Directed by Terence Young, "Thunderball" features James Bond in a daring underwater adventure, with Sean Connery, Claudine Auger, Adolfo Celi, Luciana Paluzzi, and Rik Van Nutter in key roles.
The story unfolds as two nuclear bombs are stolen from a NATO jet by a deadly SPECTRE agent, prompting Bond to spring into action to recover them.
Tasked with thwarting SPECTRE’s sinister plot, 007 must recover the warheads and prevent a global catastrophe, making for thrilling sequences shot beneath the waves.
"Thunderball" stands as the third and final James Bond film directed by Terence Young, cementing his legacy within the franchise.
HorrorSci-Fi
Director:
Jack Arnold
Release Date:
Fri Mar 5 1954
Star Cast:
Richard Carlson, Julie Adams, Richard Denning
Box Office (Worldwide):
$275
Although not as widely known as some other aquatic-themed films, "Creature from the Black Lagoon" stands as one of the most influential underwater movies ever made. Its legacy in shaping the genre is matched only by a few, including the legendary blockbuster "Jaws."
Directed by Jack Arnold, this groundbreaking Universal monster classic from 1954 follows a scientific expedition venturing deep into the mysterious waters of the Amazon River.
During their exploration, the team stumbles upon an amphibious humanoid creature that the locals believe to haunt the murky depths of the Black Lagoon.
The film suspensefully explores whether the scientists will succeed in capturing the elusive being, raising questions about man versus nature and the unknown lurking beneath the surface.
ActionDramaHistory
Director:
Aaron Schneider
Release Date:
Fri Jul 10 2020
Star Cast:
Tom Hanks, Elisabeth Shue, Stephen Graham
Budget:
$50,300,000 (estimated)
"Greyhound," featuring the ever-charismatic Tom Hanks, vividly portrays the terror and tension of naval warfare during World War II.
Directed with ambition by Aaron Schneider, the film follows Commander Ernest Krause of the United States Navy as he leads an Allied convoy of thirty-seven ships through the treacherous North Atlantic waters.
The mission grows increasingly perilous as a relentless German submarine wolf pack begins to pursue the fleet, ramping up the suspense.
Though "Greyhound" is not a traditional underwater film, it offers a striking and immersive look at submarine warfare, capturing the intricacies and dangers beneath the waves.
The movie delivers a gripping tale of bravery and tension, immersing viewers in a claustrophobic atmosphere and presenting a thrilling game of cat-and-mouse at sea.
AdventureDramaThriller
Director:
Kevin Macdonald
Release Date:
Fri Jan 23 2015
Star Cast:
Jude Law, Scoot McNairy, Ben Mendelsohn
Budget:
£8,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$4,070,789
Directed by Kevin Macdonald, Black Sea (2014) boasts a talented ensemble cast, including Jude Law, Konstantin Khabensky, Scoot McNairy, Ben Mendelsohn, and David Threlfall.
The story follows Robinson, an experienced salvager who, after losing his job, gathers a team of British and Russian crew members for a perilous deep-sea mission.
Their goal is to locate a sunken Nazi U-boat in the depths of the Black Sea, rumored to contain a fortune in solid gold.
Though the film may not be considered an underwater classic, it stands out for its precise direction and Jude Law's compelling lead performance, making it a tense and engaging watch.
ActionAdventureHorror
Director:
Alexandre Aja
Release Date:
Fri Jul 12 2019
Star Cast:
Kaya Scodelario, Barry Pepper, Morfydd Clark
Budget:
$13,500,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$91,542,097
"Crawl" follows competitive swimmer Haley as she bravely navigates into the heart of a ferocious Category-5 hurricane to rescue her stranded father.
Once inside their flooded home, Haley soon discovers they're not just battling rising water, but also fighting for survival against deadly alligators lurking in the shadows. Directed by Alexandre Aja, this gripping, low-budget thriller delivers suspenseful entertainment, even if it doesn't break new cinematic ground.
ComedyHorrorSci-Fi
Director:
Joe Dante
Release Date:
Thu Aug 3 1978
Star Cast:
Bradford Dillman, Heather Menzies-Urich, Kevin McCarthy
Budget:
$600,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$321
Directed by Joe Dante, Piranha follows investigator Maggie McKeown as she explores a deserted compound while searching for two missing teenagers. When she drains a pool during her investigation, she inadvertently unleashes thousands of deadly piranhas into a popular local river.
This usually peaceful river is a favorite spot for campers and residents alike, putting many unsuspecting people at risk. The sudden threat escalates tensions and turns an ordinary search mission into a desperate fight for survival.
Piranha stands out among a slew of low-budget B movies that emerged in the wake of Steven Spielberg's blockbuster Jaws (1975), drawing inspiration from its massive success at the box office.
Released in August 1978, the film not only achieved commercial success but also gained a cult following, solidifying its place among memorable underwater thrillers.
ActionDramaHorror
Director:
Jaume Collet-Serra
Release Date:
Fri Jun 24 2016
Star Cast:
Blake Lively, Óscar Jaenada, Angelo Josue Lozano Corzo
Budget:
$17,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$119,100,758
Blake Lively delivers a captivating performance in the 2016 thriller The Shallows, drawing viewers in with her compelling screen presence.
While the film features a straightforward storyline, it generates an impressive sense of suspense and excitement, marking it as a standout in the genre.
The plot centers on Nancy, who seeks solace on a secluded beach as she grapples with the loss of her mother. However, her journey soon takes a harrowing turn.
As Nancy surfs alone, she becomes the target of a relentless great white shark, setting the stage for a gripping fight for survival.
HorrorSci-FiThriller
Director:
Barry Levinson
Release Date:
Wed Nov 21 2012
Star Cast:
Will Rogers, Kristen Connolly, Kether Donohue
Box Office (Worldwide):
$1,581,252
Directed by Barry Levinson, "The Bay" is a 2012 American mockumentary horror film that explores the chilling events in a small seaside community in Maryland.
The town is soon plunged into chaos when waterborne parasites—mutated by exposure to toxic waste—begin to spread, threatening the very existence of its residents.
Written by Michael Wallach, the film features standout performances from Kether Donohue, Nansi Aluka, Christopher Denham, Frank Deal, and Kristen Connolly.
"The Bay" premiered at the 2012 Toronto International Film Festival and skillfully blends found-footage techniques with eco-horror to deliver a powerful, cautionary tale.
AdventureFamilyFantasy
Director:
Rob Marshall
Release Date:
Fri May 26 2023
Star Cast:
Halle Bailey, Jonah Hauer-King, Melissa McCarthy
Budget:
$250,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$569,626,289
"The Little Mermaid" (2023) delivers all the signature elements of a Disney classic, enchanting viewers with breathtaking underwater visuals and engaging performances that draw you into its magical world.
Despite its many strengths, the film's cinematography occasionally appears muted, particularly in scenes where vibrant colors would enhance the experience. Still, the nostalgic soundtrack revives the magic of the beloved tale, making it a delightful watch for devoted Disney fans.
AdventureDramaHorror
Director:
Chris Kentis
Release Date:
Fri Aug 20 2004
Star Cast:
Blanchard Ryan, Daniel Travis, Saul Stein
Budget:
$500,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$54,683,487
"Open Water" is an American survival horror thriller written and directed by Chris Kentis. Inspired by the true events involving Tom and Eileen Lonergan, this gripping film follows the harrowing ordeal of two scuba divers who find themselves stranded in shark-infested waters after a miscount leads their tour boat to leave without them.
As the couple's dire situation grows increasingly desperate, the film masterfully heightens tension, reminding viewers that the real terror lies just beneath the ocean's surface. The narrative unfolds with an eerie realism that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
Receiving above-average reviews from both critics and moviegoers, "Open Water" is recognized for its suspenseful storytelling and chilling atmosphere.
ActionAdventureBiography
Director:
Baltasar Kormákur
Release Date:
Fri Jun 1 2018
Star Cast:
Shailene Woodley, Sam Claflin, Jeffrey Thomas
Budget:
$35,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$59,945,012
Adrift paints a vivid picture of what could go wrong if one gets stranded in the middle of a sea or an ocean during a sailing trip.
It tells the story of Tami Oldham and Richard Sharp who are forced to face the unthinkable after they find themselves stranded in the Pacific Ocean after a Category 4 hurricane brings their trip to a total standstill.
Based on a true story and adapted from the 2002 book Red Sky at Mourning by Tami Oldham Ashcraft, this motion picture has been helmed for the screen by Baltasar Kormákur. It stars Shailene Woodley and Sam Claflin as a couple.
ActionAdventureComedy
Director:
Wes Anderson
Release Date:
Sat Dec 25 2004
Star Cast:
Bill Murray, Owen Wilson, Anjelica Huston
Budget:
$50,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$34,809,623
Acclaimed director Wes Anderson's critically acclaimed feature film The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou stars talented screen performers such as Bill Murray, Owen Wilson, Cate Blanchett, Anjelica Huston, Willem Dafoe, Jeff Goldblum, Michael Gambon, and Bud Cort in important roles.
The screenplay traces the journey of Steve Zissou and his crew who plan to go on an expedition to hunt down the shark that killed Steve's partner under mysterious circumstances.
Even though the film failed to mint money at the box office, it has gone on to develop a cult following years after its official theatrical release.
ActionAdventureThriller
Director:
John Glen
Release Date:
Fri Jun 26 1981
Star Cast:
Roger Moore, Carole Bouquet, Topol
Budget:
$28,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$54,837,550
This John Glen directorial venture is one of the only few James Bond full-length features to feature an underwater sequence or two.
Set during the troubled era of the Cold War, the screenplay traces how Agent 007 (played by Roger Moore) is given the task of finding a missing British ship that comprises a weapons-encryption device.
The British Navy does not want the device to fall into the hands of the Russians. Bond, accompanied by his beautiful girl, is seen swimming through the sunken wreck and avoiding bombs to complete this deadly mission; all while facing the onslaught of the enemy.
ActionAdventureFantasy
Director:
James Wan
Release Date:
Fri Dec 21 2018
Star Cast:
Jason Momoa, Amber Heard, Willem Dafoe
Budget:
$160,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$1,152,028,393
Arthur, who is half-human and half-Atlantean, takes birth with the outstanding ability to communicate with aquatic creatures.
Soon after, he is compelled to go on a mission to fetch the legendary Trident of Atlan and safeguard the water world from destructive threats.
This superhero underwater feature film has been helmed by James Wan and stars Jason Momoa, Amber Heard, Willem Dafoe, Patrick Wilson, Dolph Lundgren, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Temuera Morrison, and Nicole Kidman in crucial roles.
Aquaman received good feedback on its action sequences and visual effects and went on to become the highest-grossing DCEU feature.
DramaHistoryThriller
Director:
Kathryn Bigelow
Release Date:
Fri Jul 19 2002
Star Cast:
Harrison Ford, Sam Spruell, Peter Stebbings
Budget:
$100,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$65,716,126
Director Kathryn Bigelow's K-19: The Widowmaker stars talented actors like Harrison Ford, Liam Neeson, and Peter Sarsgaard in pivotal roles. It is set against the backdrop of the Cold War.
After Soviet Union's freshly dispatched submarine K-19 suffers a major complication during its maiden voyage, Captain Alexei Vostrikov and Officer Mikhail Polenin strategize to avoid a potential nuclear disaster that can lead to the beginning of the Third World War.
The motion picture opened to mixed reviews at the ticket counters and failed to break even financially.
ActionHorrorMystery
Director:
David Twohy
Release Date:
Fri Oct 18 2002
Star Cast:
Bruce Greenwood, David Crow, Matthew Davis
Budget:
$40,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$2,622,015
Below has been helmed for the screen by David Twohy. This war-themed thriller attempts to tell the story of the crew of the American submarine USS Tiger Shark.
When the crew embarks on a cumbersome rescue mission, they start experiencing extraordinary paranormal activities during their already arduous journey.
This motion picture, which is set in the backdrop of war, also has a decent amount of mystery to please its viewers.
Not only that but it is also a tense aquatic thriller that can be considered to be a genre-bending feature.
The film stars Bruce Greenwood, Olivia Williams, Matthew Davis, Holt McCallany, Scott Foley, Zach Galifianakis, Jason Flemyng, and Dexter Fletcher in significant roles.
ActionAdventureSci-Fi
Director:
Irwin Allen
Release Date:
Wed Jul 12 1961
Star Cast:
Walter Pidgeon, Joan Fontaine, Barbara Eden
Budget:
$1,580,000 (estimated)
Director Irwin Allen's Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea stars actors Walter Pidgeon, Joan Fontaine, Barbara Eden, Peter Lorre, Robert Sterling, Michael Ansara, and Frankie Avalon in prominent roles.
It tells the story of United States Navy Admiral Harriman who makes a plan to protect humanity from a burning Van Allen radiation belt.
However, he has naysayers who doubt his lead and his mission and sanity are both insulted by a psychiatrist who is onboard. What follows next keeps the screenplay alive and kicking.
Even though his motion picture went into production more than half a century ago, it is difficult to ignore its theme of exploring the repercussions of global warming.
ActionAdventureSci-Fi
Director:
Renny Harlin
Release Date:
Wed Jul 28 1999
Star Cast:
Thomas Jane, Saffron Burrows, Samuel L. Jackson
Budget:
$60,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$164,648,142
Who would have thought that finding a permanent cure for Alzheimer's disease can turn out to be a task that can put the lives of a group of researchers in jeopardy?
That is precisely what happens when the group strives to find a cure for the aforementioned disease by genetically modifying shark brains.
However, trouble soon follows as the genetically modified and hyper-intelligent sharks start hunting down the scientists. Sooner than later, McAlester and his crew are outnumbered by the sharks.
They must prevent the hyper-intelligent sharks from escaping into the open sea and, ultimately, from overpowering the planet.
AdventureDramaSport
Director:
Luc Besson
Release Date:
Fri Aug 19 1988
Star Cast:
Jean-Marc Barr, Jean Reno, Rosanna Arquette
Budget:
FRF 80,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$3,975,244
Director Luc Besson's amazing motion picture, The Big Blue, stars Rosanna Arquette, Jean-Marc Barr, Jean Reno, Paul Shenar, Sergio Castellitto, Marc Duret, and Griffin Dunne in crucial roles.
It is a great exhibition of Besson's imagination, eye for visual technique, and unforgettable action. Therefore, it would not be an exaggeration to call it one of the most spectacular underwater feature films to have ever been made for the big screen.
The amazing photography is aided by outstanding locations of the French Antibes, the Greek islands, Peru, and Taormina in Sicily.
In addition to the aforementioned plus points, the motion picture has an emotional undertone and tries to deal with mystical themes.
BiographyDrama
Director:
George Tillman Jr.
Release Date:
Fri Nov 10 2000
Star Cast:
Cuba Gooding Jr., Robert De Niro, Charlize Theron
Budget:
$32,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$82,343,495
Directed by George Tillman Jr., Men of Honor sees actors Robert De Niro and Cuba Gooding Jr. playing significant characters.
The film has been inspired by the true story of Master Chief Petty Officer Carl Brashear, who was the first African American master diver in the United States Navy.
The screenplay not only showcases how a United States Navy recruit becomes the force's first black diver but also goes on to demonstrate how he overpowers racism within the squad.
Even though this motion picture opened to mixed reviews at the box office, performances by De Niro and Cuba received great feedback from the critics.
ActionAdventureDrama
Director:
Wolfgang Petersen
Release Date:
Fri Jun 30 2000
Star Cast:
George Clooney, Mark Wahlberg, John C. Reilly
Budget:
$140,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$328,718,434
Directed by Wolfgang Petersen, The Perfect Storm is a disaster drama film that stars actors George Clooney, Mark Wahlberg, Diane Lane, William Fichtner, Karen Allen, Bob Gunton, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, and John C. Reilly in important roles.
Based on the 1997 non-fiction book of the same name, it traces the journey of Captain Billy Tyne and his crew who joyously embark on a fishing expedition.
However, things take a turn for the worse as their ship gets caught in a disastrous storm. The Perfect Storm managed to gross about $328 million worldwide post its release.
HorrorMysteryThriller
Director:
Johannes Roberts
Release Date:
Fri Jun 16 2017
Star Cast:
Mandy Moore, Claire Holt, Matthew Modine
Budget:
$5,300,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$62,198,461
Upon its official theatrical release, this Johannes Roberts directorial venture was heavily criticized for being an unabashed ripoff of 2016's entertaining feature The Shallows.
The film tells the story of two girls whose vacation turns into a major disaster after they end up getting trapped in a diving cage underwater.
However, the fact that they are trapped underwater does not seem as life-threatening as predatorial sharks trying to hunt them down does.
Surrounded by sharks and taking note of their finishing oxygen tanks, the girls plan to somehow survive. A sequel to this film, 47 Meters Down: Uncaged, was also released theatrically in 2019.
ActionHorrorSci-Fi
Director:
William Eubank
Release Date:
Fri Jan 10 2020
Star Cast:
Kristen Stewart, Vincent Cassel, Mamoudou Athie
Budget:
$80,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$40,882,928
Kristen Stewart and Vincent Cassel star in this aquatic creature-themed motion picture that tells the story of Norah and her ambitious team.
The squad faces major issues as they find themselves trapped in a dangerous situation while doing what they do best at the bottom of the Mariana Trench.
Things get exciting for the viewers when they catch the group stumbling upon and, ultimately, battling an unidentified species underwater.
However, the situation takes a turn for the worse as the team's facility is destroyed and they are stalked by monster-like creatures, making it the ultimate battle of survival.
ActionDramaHorror
Director:
Greg McLean
Release Date:
Thu Nov 8 2007
Star Cast:
Michael Vartan, Radha Mitchell, Sam Worthington
Budget:
A$26,900,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$4,631,926
Set in the Australian outback, this independent horror feature film has been written, produced, and directed by Greg McLean.
The screenplay traces the journey of an American journalist who, while on an assignment in Australia, is forced to face a 25 ft man-eating crocodile.
He is not alone in this misfortune, though. Along with him, a group of tourists and locals is also present. Together, they are compelled to hatch a plan to get past the trouble.
Rogue stars Radha Mitchell, Michael Vartan, and Sam Worthington in prominent roles. It is said that the project was inspired by the true story of a giant male saltwater crocodile named Sweetheart.
Even though Sweetheart is known to have attacked boats during the 1970s, its attack on humans has not really been verified so far.
The motion picture opened to fair reviews at the box office, but failed to be a commercial success.
ActionHorrorSci-Fi
Director:
Jon Turteltaub
Release Date:
Fri Aug 10 2018
Star Cast:
Jason Statham, Bingbing Li, Rainn Wilson
Budget:
$130,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$529,338,515
The Meg has been helmed for the screen by Jon Turteltaub and stars Jason Statham in the lead.
Actors like Li Bingbing, Rainn Wilson, Ruby Rose, Winston Chao, and Cliff Curtis also make their presence felt in supporting roles.
The film follows the journey of a deep-sea diver, Jonas Taylor, who is hired to save members of an underwater research facility.
However, the threat is bigger than what he could have possibly imagined: a 75-foot prehistoric shark. Even though Statham's Taylor is an expert diver, the mission that he decides to undertake is pretty much equivalent to committing suicide.
AdventureMysteryThriller
Director:
Peter Yates
Release Date:
Fri Jun 17 1977
Star Cast:
Jacqueline Bisset, Nick Nolte, Dick Anthony Williams
Budget:
$9,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$47,346,365
This Peter Yates directorial venture stars Robert Shaw, Jacqueline Bisset, Nick Nolte, Louis Gossett, and Eli Wallach in crucial roles.
The film is based on Peter Benchley’s best-selling novel of the same name. The story follows the journey of a young American couple who find themselves entangled in a dangerous conflict with treasure hunters during their adventure.
However, there is a reason behind the conflict; it arises because the couple has been able to uncover a way into a fatal wreck in the Bermuda waters.
The Deep is credited with being one of the first mainstream features to illustrate the real underwater world in Panavision.
ActionComedyHorror
Director:
Steve Miner
Release Date:
Fri Jul 16 1999
Star Cast:
Bridget Fonda, Bill Pullman, Oliver Platt
Budget:
$35,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$56,870,414
It is not necessary that every underwater feature has to be set in the depths of the vast oceans.
So, say hello to Lake Placid; a 1999 motion picture that is set around the fictional territory of Black Lake.
The story of this mainstream title tracks how an incredulously large crocodile threatens to destroy both the lives and livelihoods of the locals and wildlife alike.
It is an unapologetic popcorn entertainer that has been injected with sporadic jump scares to entertain its audience.
AdventureDramaHorror
Director:
Andrew Traucki
Release Date:
Thu Mar 17 2011
Star Cast:
Damian Walshe-Howling, Gyton Grantley, Adrienne Pickering
Box Office (Worldwide):
$67,753
This Australian thriller has been helmed for the screen by director Andrew Traucki. It stars Damian Walshe-Howling, Zoe Naylor, Gyton Grantley, and Adrienne Pickering in crucial roles.
The film tells the story of Luke and his pals who sail to Indonesia to deliver a yacht. However, their journey is cut short when the yacht gets hit and capsizes, forcing them into shark-infested water.
The group has to survive twelve miles of water before they can reach a nearby mountain.
Helpless and scared out of their wits, some of the group members decide to risk swimming to a nearby island in order to save themselves. Soon, things get out of control when a great white shark starts chasing them.
ActionDramaThriller
Director:
Jerry Jameson
Release Date:
Fri Mar 11 1977
Star Cast:
Jack Lemmon, Lee Grant, Joseph Cotten
Budget:
$6,000,000 (estimated)
This Jerry Jameson directorial venture stars a number of renowned veteran actors in significant roles.
It deals with a subject of an air disaster and soon turns into an underwater feature. After art thieves hijack a 747, the aircraft crashes into the ocean.
This leaves the thieves, as well as the passengers, hundreds of feet under the water as the battle for survival begins.
Despite opening to mixed reviews, Airport '77 went on to amass over $91 million at the global box office.
AdventureHorrorMystery
Director:
George P. Cosmatos
Release Date:
Fri Mar 17 1989
Star Cast:
Peter Weller, Richard Crenna, Amanda Pays
Budget:
$25,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$15,704,614
This George P. Cosmatos directorial venture traces the journey of a crew of deep-sea miners that is spearheaded by head oceanographer Steven Beck.
As the group reaches its desired destination to supervise an underwater mining operation, the oceanographer dives deep into the ocean. Sooner than later, the group stumbles upon a sunken ship.
Not only that but they also end up discovering a creature that starts to massacre crew members. With his crew's life and the ship in danger, Beck has no option but to save as many as he can and get back on land as soon as possible.
While Leviathan can turn out to be a fair guilty pleasure watch, one cannot deny the fact that it has borrowed inspiration from classic motion pictures such as The Thing and Alien.
ActionAdventureDrama
Director:
Alister Grierson
Release Date:
Fri Feb 4 2011
Star Cast:
Rhys Wakefield, Allison Cratchley, Christopher James Baker
Budget:
$30,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$108,609,310
Distributed by Universal Pictures, Sanctum is a 2011 thriller film that has been helmed for the screen by Alister Grierson.
Actors Richard Roxburgh, Rhys Wakefield, Alice Parkinson, Dan Wyllie, and Ioan Gruffudd can be seen playing key roles in the motion picture.
The story follows a fellow diver named Frank McGuire who gets cut off from his team of divers while they are out exploring an unmapped, undercover, and complicated network of caves.
Whether the divers' abilities benefit them in finding a way out is what forms the rest of the storyline in this adventure-thriller.
ActionBiographyHistory
Director:
William Fairchild
Release Date:
Tue Mar 4 1958
Star Cast:
Laurence Harvey, Dawn Addams, Michael Craig
Helmed by William Fairchild, The Silent Enemy stars actors Laurence Harvey, Dawn Addams, John Clements, Michael Craig, and Sid James in crucial roles.
The film is based on the real-life story of a master diver in the British Navy, named Lionel “Buster” Crabb (played by Harvey).
The entertaining screenplay tracks how Navy frogmen attempt to deter the Italians from attaching mines to British ships during the tense period of the Second World War.
The Silent Enemy thrives on its drama, humor, and setting and is a decent mix of fact and fiction.
ActionAdventureCrime
Director:
John Stockwell
Release Date:
Fri Sep 30 2005
Star Cast:
Paul Walker, Jessica Alba, Scott Caan
Budget:
$50,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$46,117,696
This action-thriller has been directed by John Stockwell and features a cast headlined by known screen performers such as Paul Walker, Jessica Alba, Scott Caan, Ashley Scott, Josh Brolin, and James Frain.
The screenplay tracks the journey of Jared and Sam, who, upon searching for treasures in the vast ocean, chance upon something entirely unexpected.
They find bags of cocaine crammed inside a sunken plane. This discovery attracts the attention of a ruthless drug kingpin who would go to any extent to steal the bags from them.
Unfortunately, Into the Blue proved to be both a critical and commercial failure upon its theatrical release in 2005.
AdventureDramaWar
Director:
Lloyd Bacon
Release Date:
Sat Sep 8 1951
Star Cast:
Richard Widmark, Dana Andrews, Gary Merrill
This American black-and-white World War II drama feature film has been bankrolled by Twentieth Century Fox and directed by Lloyd Bacon.
It traces the journey of a newly-stationed Lt. Cmdr. John Lawrence (portrayed by Richard Widmark) and how he handles both an elite team and the proceedings aboard a submarine in the Pacific during the time of the Second World War.
However, his leadership and the lives of his crew members are put at risk after a Japanese torpedo threatens to hit their boat.
Lawrence tries his absolute best to save his team and earn their respect by withstanding what seems like impending doom.
ActionMysterySci-Fi
Director:
Barry Levinson
Release Date:
Fri Feb 13 1998
Star Cast:
Dustin Hoffman, Sharon Stone, Samuel L. Jackson
Budget:
$80,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$37,020,277
Director Barry Levinson's Sphere stars distinguished screen performers like Dustin Hoffman, Sharon Stone, Samuel L. Jackson, Peter Coyote, and Liev Schreiber in prominent roles.
It tells the story of a team of experts that is sent on a mission to the bottom of the Pacific Ocean.
The mission is to investigate a spacecraft. However, little do they know that the aircraft is full of their worst fears.
Even though Sphere features some of the finest actors and top-notch talent, the outcome of the project is more or less mixed.
Having said that, one cannot deny the fact that a certain section of the viewers might end up liking this science fiction psychological thriller that is based on the 1987 novel of the same name by Michael Crichton.
ActionFantasyHorror
Director:
Xavier Gens
Release Date:
Fri Sep 7 2018
Star Cast:
Ray Stevenson, David Oakes, Aura Garrido
Budget:
€8,500,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$737,478
Cold Skin is a science fiction horror feature film that has been directed by Xavier Gens.
The screenplay follows a meteorologist named Friend (played by David Oakes), who tours the secluded regions of the Antarctic circle after having been posted as a weather observer there.
However, the man soon finds out that the previous weather observer was killed by creatures from the sea.
Be that as it may, Friend observes more than what he was sent to observe and soon finds himself trapped among blood-thirsty creatures on the island.
Cold Skin relies on its visual style and killer makeup effects to deliver what it promises.
DramaThriller
Director:
Ron Scalpello
Release Date:
Fri Jun 12 2015
Star Cast:
Danny Huston, Matthew Goode, Joe Cole
Filmed by Ron Scalpello, Pressure is a 2015 feature film that traces the journey of a group of divers recruited to mend an oil pipeline at the bottom of the sea.
However, things go haywire when the vessel carrying the divers' pod, unfortunately, sinks as a dangerous storm threatens to disrupt their mission.
Needless to say, this leaves the divers stuck at the bottom of the sea. With their oxygen supply running out, they desperately try to get in touch with their team on the surface.
What is left for the viewers to see is if they are saved by the oil company, or if they will be left to fend for themselves at the bottom of the sea.
ActionAdventureHorror
Director:
Stephen Sommers
Release Date:
Fri Jan 30 1998
Star Cast:
Treat Williams, Famke Janssen, Anthony Heald
Budget:
$45,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$11,203,026
Filmmaker Stephen Sommers attempts to tell the story of a brand new cruise ship that sets sail to meet its untimely and rather unfortunate demise.
Needless to say, the passengers do not meet a better fate and are soon killed by a monstrous sea creature.
In the middle of all the bloodshed, a gang of jewel thieves, that was planning to rob everyone on board blind, gets trapped with little scope to escape.
Even though this popcorn entertainer failed both critically and commercially upon its release, some of the people who went to catch this project in the cinemas actually ended up enjoying it.
That said, Deep Rising has gone on to become a cult classic of sorts over the past two decades.
ComedyCrimeDrama
Director:
Gordon Douglas
Release Date:
Fri Dec 20 1968
Star Cast:
Frank Sinatra, Raquel Welch, Richard Conte
Budget:
$3,585,000 (estimated)
This motion picture has been directed by Gordon Douglas and stars actors like Frank Sinatra, Raquel Welch, Dan Blocker, Richard Conte, Martin Gabel, Lainie Kazan, and Pat Henry in key roles.
The story traces the journey of a Miami detective named Tony Rome (played by Frank Sinatra), who locates a woman’s body during a dive into the ocean.
He notices that the feet of the dead body has been encased in a concrete block. Needless to say, he cannot stop himself from getting to the core of the case.
This neo-noir mystery crime comedy thriller is usually considered to be a sequel to Tony Rome.
AdventureDramaHorror
Director:
Kinji Fukasaku
Release Date:
Thu Jun 26 1980
Star Cast:
Masao Kusakari, Tsunehiko Watase, Isao Natsuyagi
Budget:
$16,000,000 (estimated)
1980's Virus is one of the most distinct underwater features to make it to our story. Directed by Kinji Fukasaku, it stars an international ensemble cast and has been produced in multiple languages.
The screenplay of the film shows how microbiologists end up discharging a pandemic known as the Italian Flu upon the planet.
Since the virus cannot survive at temperatures below ten degrees Celsius, about 855 men and women stationed in Antarctica are deemed to be safe.
Virus has an underwater element in the sense that it demonstrates how both the British and Soviet submarines race against time (and each other) to find a haven for themselves in Antarctica.