Submarine based films have existed since the silent era. In all, around 150 films have been made on the subject from 1910-2010. This means to really stand out, filmmakers have to do something inherently different. While I’m not sure 2002’s Below completely succeeds, it does offer some interesting science fiction and horror elements.
Set in 1943 at the peak of World War II, on board the submarine known as the U.S.S. Tiger Shark, the crew receives a message requesting help to rescue survivors spotted by a British patrol plane in the Atlantic. They are only able to rescue three people. Among them is—British nurse Claire Paige (Olivia Wiliams) and two men, one of them severely wounded—from a British hospital ship, sunk two days earlier. Soon, they find themselves under attack and are forced to go below. It seems impossible for them to go back up, as they are forced back down repeatedly.
Written by Darren Aronofsky, Lucas Sussman and director David Twohy, many of the story’s shortcomings are helped by a strong cast and Twohy’s able direction. Nonetheless, Below descends into science fiction and supernatural, seen in many films before it from Sphere to Event Horizon. While the script lacks any real character development, the writers understand the viewers’ expectations. As such, they create enough smoke and mirrors to keep audiences wondering if what they expect is going to happen. Some viewers, me included, will find themselves figuring out the reasons behind the action long before it’s revealed. The result is a film that sets itself up well but tends to limp to the finish line despite several moments that should be exciting.
Blessed with a cast that includes Matthew Davis, Bruce Greenwood, Olivia Williams, Holt McCallany, Scott Foley and Zach Galifianakis, Below is worth watching on a rainy Saturday night. Depending on how much you know, enjoyment may vary.
Taken from an 4K Scan of the 35mm Original Camera Negative, Kino’s all-new HDR/Dolby Vision Master is a strong upgrade from previous releases. The transfer is clean throughout, with no scratches or other blemishes. Blacks are inky and whites are bright. Colors are vivid throughout. While detail is excellent, there are times when it seems almost too sharp. Perhaps it’s been artificially refined? I’m not sure, but I wouldn’t be surprised. Some visual effects show their age in spots, but viewers should be quite pleased with the transfer overall.
Kino has included two standard audio tracks, English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 and English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0. the 5.1 track handles the bevy of atmospheric sound effects very well. A sense of intensity is present when needed. All and all, the track is well mixed and realistic throughout. Dialogue is clean, clear and concise.
English SDH subtitles are available.
The following extras are included:
DISC 1 (4KUHD):
- Audio Commentary by Director David Twohy and Actors Matt Davis, Bruce Greenwood, Holt McCallany, Zach Galifianakis and Nick Chinlund
DISC 2 (BLU-RAY):
- Audio Commentary by Director David Twohy and Actors Matt Davis, Bruce Greenwood, Holt McCallany, Zach Galifianakis and Nick Chinlund
- The Process: Featurette (12:24)
- Deleted Scenes (8:18) – with Optional Audio Commentary by David Twohy
- Theatrical Trailer (2:27)
