Submerged

Submerged from 2016, directed by Steven C. Miller and starring Jonathan Bennett, Talulah Riley, Rosa Salazar is a thriller suspense movie that masterfully blends elements of action, drama, survival, and mystery.

This gripping movie opens with chilling scenes that instantly draw the viewer into an intense world of terror and suspense. Submerged follows the story of a group of party-going young adults led by Matt (Jonathan Bennett), who also double up as a driver/bodyguard for the billionaire's daughter Jessie (Talulah Riley). Together with their friends, they bring the party to a limousine, expecting nothing more than an evening of fun, laughter, and memories.

However, the jovial atmosphere is abruptly shattered when they become victims of a vicious kidnapping attempt. In an attempt to protect Jessie and his friends, Matt navigates through a deadly high-speed chase while repelling the persistent attacks of their assailants. A wrong turn later leads to a tragic accident, with their limousine plunging into a nearby canal, turning their extravagant party car into a potential water tomb. The movie title, "Submerged," paints an apt picture of their plight, as they find themselves trapped under water with dwindling oxygen supply and time.

The performances by Jonathan Bennett as the protective Matt and Talulah Riley as the troubled youth immersed in a dangerous situation contribute significantly in fleshing out their characters and building the tension. Rosa Salazar's performance also stands out as she skillfully portrays the genuine thrill and suspense that groom the narrative.

Submerged is not just about physical survival but also offers a psychological survival thriller dimension. As water starts to fill the limousine, the trapped occupants are forced to confront their fears and guilty secrets. Panic, suspense, and tension, mirrored in the eyes of the trapped young adults, create a claustrophobic atmosphere that is both disconcerting and gripping.

This mortal predicament is juxtaposed with flashbacks of events that led to the present horror. The evolution of the plot, interspersed with such scenes and littered with clues, generates curiosity and keeps the viewers guessing. There is a constant sense of urgency and rush to escape as they are racing against time and fate, struggling to survive in the worst imaginable circumstances.

The water setting—not often seen in similar genre movies—is not only utilised for its visual aesthetic but also increases the stakes and intensity, transforming a familiar environment into a deadly trap. This element adds to the originality and uniqueness of the movie, distinguishing it from other thrillers.

The movie explores themes such as class differences, love, loyalty, and sacrifice. Submerged highlights the stark disparities between the privileged and the not-so-fortunate. These themes raise thought-provoking questions about the characters' allegiances, stretching the narrative beyond the basic survival plot.

Director Steven C. Miller uses clever cinematography techniques to enhance the movie's mood and atmosphere. The underwater sequences are particularly well-filmed, capturing the claustrophobia and chilliness of the water-filled limousine. The lighting technique and the muted audio while submerged mimic the sensory deprivation which contributes to the terror and the limited perception of the trapped victims.

Submerged manages to maintain suspense and tension throughout its run time, keeping the audience intrigued with its mix of claustrophobic present and revealing past scenes. The film's climax, whilst maintaining the suspense and tension, gives a satisfying resolution and ties the split narrative together.

Overall, Submerged is a thrilling watch that keeps viewers engaged with its unexpected twists amplified by the unique setting, making it an enticing choice for enthusiasts of the action-thriller genre. The rollercoaster tempo of emotions and the constant threat of danger keep audiences hooked until the very end. This film is a commendable demonstration of how a simple plot can be transformed into a riveting tale of survival and suspense through unique narrative choices and exemplary performances.