Movie review: Below

During WWII the American submarine, Tiger Shark, stumbles upon a sinking hospital ship. With the survivors aboard, the war still going on around them, and the Tiger Shark still on a mission, tension runs high and goes even higher when things stop adding up.

Matthew Davis (Odell), Bruce Greenwood (Brice), Holt McCallany (Loomis), Dexter Fletcher (Kingsley), Nick Chinlund (Chief), Olivia Williams (Claire), Scott Foley (Coors), Andrew Howard (Hoag).

Below is an interesting mix of terror, action, emotion, and more. The story launches well with character introductions in parallel with plot setup and execution. The plot includes some nice twists and parallel plot lines that hold interest very well. Add in some military action, a submarine as the setting, and there is plenty going on in this one. The film finally wraps up with some nice drama that does a fair job of finishing things.

Acting was good with Greenwood fitting his role well and delivering nicely. Williams seemed to work well with others and her delivery was solid. McCallany was appropriately irritating for his role, and the remainder of the cast was solid and enjoyable.

Camera work was good and despite the main set being a submarine, visuals were enjoyable and well done. CGI and effects fit the film well and had a nice, realistic feel. Action was good without taking over the film. Dialogue had nice depth and moved things along, while sound and soundtrack were quite nice.

Overall Below is a nicely done thriller with good technical work, acting, and an enjoyable storyline. Fans of thrillers, horror, or military action should enjoy this one.

Some foul language and violence, but this should be fine for teens and above.

Released: 2002
Reviewed: 4.27.16
Star rating: 4 out of 5
Genre: Thriller, Mystery, Supernatural Thrillers, Horror, Military Action

copyright ©2016 Dave Riedel