"Underwater" is a science fiction horror film released in 2020, directed by William Eubank. The movie plunges its audience into the deep, dark, and mysterious depths of the Mariana Trench, where a team of researchers and drillers face unimaginable threats after an earthquake devastates their underwater drilling station. Starring Kristen Stewart, Vincent Cassel, and T.J. Miller, the film combines the claustrophobic tension of deep-sea environments with the terror of unknown creatures.
Plot Summary:
Set seven miles beneath the ocean's surface in the Mariana Trench, the Kepler 822 drilling station experiences a catastrophic earthquake, leaving the facility largely destroyed and in imminent danger of collapsing entirely.
Mechanical engineer Norah Price (Kristen Stewart) is among the survivors who must navigate the treacherous, water-filled corridors to find safety. As the crew plans their escape, they decide to walk across the ocean floor to reach the Roebuck 641, another drilling station.
However, as they embark on this perilous journey, they soon realize that the earthquake has unleashed a group of mysterious and deadly creatures that now threaten their lives. The team must race against time, lack of oxygen, increasing pressure, and the relentless creatures to reach safety.
Cast and Characters:
- Kristen Stewart as Norah Price: A mechanical engineer with a strong will and determination. She becomes an unexpected leader in the face of danger.
- Vincent Cassel as Captain Lucien: The captain of the drilling station, whose experience and calm demeanor guide the crew during the crisis.
- T.J. Miller as Paul: A crew member known for his comic relief, even in dire situations. He carries a stuffed bunny for good luck.
- Jessica Henwick as Emily Haversham: A research assistant who forms a close bond with Norah during their escape.
- John Gallagher Jr. as Liam Smith: Another key member of the crew who plays a pivotal role in the group's survival efforts.
Where to Stream
United States (US):
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
- Streaming: fuboTV, DIRECTV
- Buy: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft Store, DIRECTV, AMC on Demand
- Free: None
Australia (AU):
There are currently no streaming offers in the AU.
- Streaming: Disney Plus
- Buy: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, YouTube, Telstra TV, Fetch TV
- Free: None
Great Britain (GB):
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- Streaming: Disney Plus
- Buy: Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Sky Store, Microsoft Store, YouTube, Rakuten TV
- Free: None
Germany (DE):
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- Streaming: Disney Plus
- Buy: Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Sky Store, Rakuten TV, maxdome Store, MagentaTV, Microsoft Store
- Free: None
Brazil (BR):
There are currently no streaming offers in the BR.
- Streaming: Star Plus
- Buy: None
- Free: None
Spain (ES):
There are currently no streaming offers in the ES.
- Streaming: Disney Plus
- Buy: Apple TV, Rakuten TV, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, Amazon Video
- Free: None
France (FR):
There are currently no streaming offers in the FR.
- Streaming: Disney Plus
- Buy: Apple TV, Orange VOD, Microsoft Store, Canal VOD, Rakuten TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube
- Free: None
Canada (CA):
There are currently no streaming offers in the CA.
- Streaming: Disney Plus
- Buy: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Cineplex, Microsoft Store, YouTube, Amazon Video
- Free: None
Production Details:
"Underwater" was directed by William Eubank, known for his work on films like "The Signal." The screenplay was penned by Brian Duffield and Adam Cozad. The movie's setting and tone draw inspiration from classic deep-sea horror and sci-fi films, with a modern twist.
Principal photography for "Underwater" began in 2017, with many scenes shot in New Orleans, Louisiana. The filmmakers faced the challenge of creating the illusion of being deep underwater.
This was achieved through a combination of practical sets, advanced underwater filming techniques, and visual effects. The design of the mysterious creatures was kept under wraps until the film's release, adding to the suspense and intrigue.
Reception and Awards:
Upon its release, "Underwater" received mixed reviews from critics. Many praised the film's intense atmosphere, high-paced action, and Kristen Stewart's performance. However, some felt that the storyline was somewhat predictable, drawing comparisons to other films in the genre.
The movie grossed over $40 million worldwide. While it didn't win major awards, it was recognized for its technical achievements, especially in sound design and visual effects, which effectively conveyed the oppressive and eerie atmosphere of the deep ocean.
Trivia and Behind-the-Scenes:
- Kristen Stewart performed many of her own stunts in the film, undergoing rigorous training to prepare for the physically demanding role.
- The design of the underwater suits worn by the cast was inspired by real deep-sea diving suits, but with added modifications to fit the futuristic setting of the movie.
- Director William Eubank mentioned in interviews that he wanted the creatures in the film to remain mysterious, allowing the audience's imagination to fill in the gaps.
- The film's release was delayed by almost two years, partly due to the acquisition of 20th Century Fox by Disney.