The shark movie is a sub-genre with limitations. Forever in the considerable shadow of Jaws and explored further in variations such as Deep Blue Sea and Open Water, it’s hard to imagine many more places for the shark movie to go. As with Open Water, the director is at the mercy of the film’s restrictions – one location, repetitive action, and limited technical capabilities. Yes, it’s certainly difficult to get something fresh and creative out the shark movie (unless you want to go down the ridiculous path and get all Megaladon), but writer and director Andrew Traucki has delivered a decent litle thriller with The Reef. What it lacks in originality it makes up in tension, striking the exact chords a film such as this should.
‘Based on a true story’, The Reef follows four holiday makers trapped out at sea after their boat collides with a coral reef. Ignoring the advice of skipper Warren, the quartet decide to brave the ocean and swim thirty miles to the nearest island. With only a watch for guidance, as some half-assed compass (any viewer with half a brain will spot the flaw in this plan), the group head out into the watery abyss.
Though The Reef hits standard beats and utilizes two-dimensional characters – even crow-barring in an unnecessary love angle – as soon as the big bad shark turns up, the story suitably grips. The first chow-down may be telegraphed – and resulting from some wholly unbelievable stupidity on one character’s part – but it’s affecting all the same. There is something undeniably disturbing about having a limb munched off by a great white shark…
One of the major plus points here is the use of shark footage. Unlike previous shark movies, The Reef isn’t afraid to show the villainous fish, and it’s a credit to Traucki that he hasn’t compromised the film’s tension by doing so. By using a mix of actual shark footage and CG work, Traucki has brought the shark to life, clearly communicating the danger in the situation.
There’s no doubt that suitable tension is all present and correct, however much of this springs from anxiety over exactly how the next character is going to bite the big one, rather than any connection with said sharkbait. The characters remain flat, and as they get bumped off in a predictable order, you’ll be wondering if you’re tense for the right reasons.
But, for all its faults, The Reef delivers what it promises from the off. Good shark action, strong moments of horror, and a climax that fits the formula. No doubt there are better shark movies out there, and probably still yet to come, but for now, The Reef has plenty of bite.
The Reef is available on DVD now.
