‘Dead Sea’ (2024) Movie Review - An Average Horror Attempt

In the landscape of horror cinema, this film misses the mark with a plot that feels overly predictable and uninspired. It struggles to earn its place as a true “horror” movie, as it lacks the necessary elements to evoke genuine fear or suspense. Instead of delivering the chills and thrills that define the genre, it leaves viewers with a sense of déjà vu. To better understand why the film falls short, let’s first take a closer look at its plot and the narrative choices that contribute to its failure to captivate.

What began as an exhilarating jet ski adventure quickly descends into a desperate fight for survival when a catastrophic accident leaves Kaya (Isabel Gravitt) and her friends stranded in the treacherous expanse of the open sea. Their hope for rescue seems realized when a fishing trawler appears on the horizon, seemingly offering a lifeline. However, their relief is tragically fleeting as they soon uncover the true nature of their saviors. The captain of the trawler harbors a sinister agenda, using the vessel as a trap to ensnare them in a nightmarish scenario.

Trapped aboard the menacing ship, Kaya and her friends are thrust into a nightmarish struggle where every decision could mean the difference between life and death. As they confront the dark and dangerous reality of their situation, Kaya must harness every ounce of her courage and resourcefulness to navigate the perilous circumstances. With danger lurking at every turn and their lives hanging by a thread, Kaya faces a harrowing challenge: to outwit their captors and find a way to escape before it’s too late. Will she be able to protect herself and her friends? Will she survive the deadly game set before her?

The performances in this film, while earnest, fail to make a significant impact. Isabel Gravitt, who plays Kaya Adams, along with Koa Tom as Xander and Dean Cameron as Curtis Hunt, deliver commendable efforts in their roles. However, their talents are ultimately undermined by the film’s weak and unoriginal plot. Despite their best attempts to bring depth and nuance to their characters, the lackluster storyline and predictable narrative prevent their performances from rising above the material. The actors' hard work is evident, but it is insufficient to compensate for the film’s broader shortcomings, leaving their efforts feeling overshadowed and underwhelming.

The film's attempt to create a horror atmosphere falls flat, failing to evoke the intended sense of fear. Coupled with a highly predictable plot, the lack of suspense becomes glaringly obvious. As a result, viewers can easily anticipate what will happen next, diminishing any potential for genuine thrills or surprises. If you're a dedicated horror enthusiast, you might find some value in watching this film, despite its shortcomings. However, for those who aren’t deeply invested in the genre, it’s best to give this movie a pass. The film’s lackluster plot and ineffective scares make it a less compelling choice for casual viewers.

Final Score- [4/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times