The Last Breath (2024) Review: A Thrilling Dive into Shark-Infested Waters
Just when you thought it was safe to return to the cinematic waters, The Last Breath surfaces to deliver another pulse-pounding shark movie. Directed by Joachim Hedén, this film taps into the well-loved yet heavily trodden path of aquatic horror. While the genre has seen numerous entries each year, The Last Breath distinguishes itself by adding a fresh twist to the familiar formula, delivering the thrills and chills that fans of shark movies crave.
Written by Nick Saltrese, based on a story by Andrew Prendergast, The Last Breath is a taut, suspenseful thriller set primarily beneath the ocean’s surface. Filming underwater has historically posed challenges, often resulting in murky, hard-to-follow visuals. However, The Last Breath overcomes these obstacles with stunning cinematography by Hedén and Eric Börjeson, who use light and shadow to create a clear, immersive, and haunting underwater world.
Plot Overview
The story begins in 1944 when a German submarine sinks the USS Charlotte battleship near the British Virgin Islands. Fast forward 80 years, and treasure hunter Levi (played by Julian Sands) and his deckhand Noah (Jack Parr) discover the sunken wreckage buried deep in the ocean floor. Levi, who has spent years and nearly all his resources searching for the Charlotte, faces financial ruin. In a desperate bid to help, Noah convinces Levi to take a risky step that leads to catastrophic consequences.
A group of Noah’s old college friends reunites for a few days of partying and catching up. Among them are Sam (Kim Spearman), a New York nurse and Noah’s ex; the arrogant and wealthy Brett (Alexander Arnold); the laid-back stoner, Logan (Arlo Carter); and the easy-going Riley (Erin Mullen). When Noah reveals the discovery of the Charlotte, Brett offers Levi a large sum of money to take them on a dive to explore the sunken battleship. Levi, though hesitant, agrees, delaying reporting the find to authorities.
The group, though certified divers, is unprepared for what lies beneath. As they descend into the depths of the Charlotte, they lose communication with the surface. However, the real danger is yet to come—ferocious, territorial man-eating sharks. This sets the stage for a harrowing underwater survival story where disorientation, dwindling oxygen, and rising panic create a tense, claustrophobic atmosphere.
Character and Performance Analysis
While the movie doesn’t delve deeply into its characters, Levi stands out as the most developed among them. The other characters, while somewhat one-dimensional, serve their purpose in propelling the narrative forward. Despite this, the film’s primary focus is on building suspense and immersing the audience in its dark, underwater environment.
Julian Sands delivers a compelling performance as Levi, a treasure hunter who finds himself in a deadly situation. His character’s reluctance to become a hero adds a layer of complexity to the story, making his eventual transformation all the more impactful. This role is especially poignant as it marks Sands’ final film appearance before his tragic passing in 2023.
Visuals and Atmosphere
The Last Breath excels in creating a gripping atmosphere. The use of underwater cinematography is both visually stunning and intensely claustrophobic, drawing viewers into the dangerous and alien world beneath the sea. The sharks, though CGI, are rendered with enough menace to make their presence genuinely terrifying. The film’s visual homage to classics like Jaws is clear, but it does so with a sense of respect rather than mere imitation.
The tension is palpable throughout, particularly as the group’s oxygen supplies dwindle and the sharks close in. The film keeps you guessing who, if anyone, will survive this underwater nightmare.
Final Thoughts
The Last Breath may not offer deep character studies, but it more than compensates with its relentless pacing, intense atmosphere, and thrilling shark encounters. For fans of the shark horror genre, this movie is a must-watch. While it borrows elements from iconic films like Jaws, it brings enough originality to the table to stand on its own.
If you’re looking for a thrilling, edge-of-your-seat experience, The Last Breath is sure to deliver. With its sharp cinematography, suspenseful storytelling, and high-stakes drama, it’s a film that will leave you gasping for air.
Where to Watch The Last Breath Online
For those eager to watch The Last Breath, several options are available:
- Vudu: Available for rent or purchase, Vudu offers high-definition streaming, perfect for a movie night in.
- Prime Video: Amazon’s streaming platform also provides rental and purchase options, making it accessible for Prime members and non-members alike.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Ideal for Android users, Google Play offers both rental and purchase options, allowing you to watch on various devices.
Whether you’re a fan of shark movies or simply looking for a new thriller to watch, The Last Breath is available on multiple platforms for your convenience.
