Shark attack movies have been a regular part of the genre landscape for decades. Maneater follows Jessie (Nicky Whelan, 2009’s Halloween II) who has been dumped right before her wedding. She decides to take her friends to the island resort that was planning on going to for her honeymoon. Unfortunately for the group, a great white also wants to join in on the fun.
The setup for Maneater is nothing out of the ordinary, which means it has to deliver on other levels. On the plus side, the bar for shark attack movies is fairly low. As long as there is a ferocious beast and some good tension, it should make for an enjoyable watch.
It does not take long for the shark to take down his human prey. Unfortunately, the lack of proper build takes away from the moment. This stays with Maneater the entire time as the shark never reaches the terrifying depths that it should. It is frightening enough, but no one will decide against going in the water either.
Part of the issue is the tone of Maneater. At times, it seems like B-movie schlock that wants its audience to poke fun at it. There are interactions that are too silly not to laugh at. However, the performances always feel too serious and there are no over the top outrageous moments to be found.
The setting does make for some effortlessly beautiful shots. Writer-director Justin Lee also has the “less is more” ethos down. Shark attack movies need only one incredibly gory kill while the rest can be filler. Not only is that exactly the case with Maneater, it is also a great way to describe it.
Maneater comes to theaters and on demand and digital August 26
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