Shark Bait (2022)

Review Team

3/5

Shark Bait, directed by James Nunn, attempts to inject fresh energy into the survival horror genre with its premise of youthful recklessness leading to dire consequences. The film opens with an exhilarating sense of freedom as a group of friends commandeer jetskis for a weekend adventure, but this q ... Show more >> Shark Bait, directed by James Nunn, attempts to inject fresh energy into the survival horror genre with its premise of youthful recklessness leading to dire consequences. The film opens with an exhilarating sense of freedom as a group of friends commandeer jetskis for a weekend adventure, but this quickly spirals into chaos following a catastrophic collision. The narrative effectively captures the desperation and fear of being stranded, particularly as the ocean's predators begin to circle. The performances are commendable, particularly from the actor portraying the injured friend, whose pain and vulnerability anchor the film's emotional weight. However, while the film successfully builds tension, it occasionally falls into predictable tropes, lacking the originality to elevate it beyond typical genre fare. Overall, Shark Bait is an engaging watch for those who relish survival thrillers, but it may leave some viewers wanting more in terms of depth and creativity. Show less

Editor Team

2/5

Shark Bait tries hard to be a thrilling ride, but ultimately it feels like it's treading water instead of making waves. The plot kicks off with a reckless decision that leads to a catastrophic jetski crash, setting the stage for what could have been a gripping survival story. However, the characters ... Show more >> Shark Bait tries hard to be a thrilling ride, but ultimately it feels like it's treading water instead of making waves. The plot kicks off with a reckless decision that leads to a catastrophic jetski crash, setting the stage for what could have been a gripping survival story. However, the characters often come across as one-dimensional, making it hard to invest in their plight. The film has its tense moments, particularly with the lurking dangers beneath the surface, but these are overshadowed by predictable plot twists and a somewhat lacklustre execution. The direction by James Nunn does offer some visual flair, yet it doesn't compensate for the film's shortcomings in character development. While it has its moments, Shark Bait feels more like a missed opportunity than a must-see horror film. Show less