When Sharks Meet Criminals: A Dive into the Absurdity of 'Above & Below'
There’s something oddly comforting about a B-movie that knows exactly what it is—and isn’t afraid to lean into the chaos. Above & Below is one of those rare gems. In a year flooded with shark films that take themselves far too seriously, this one dares to be unapologetically silly. And you know what? It works.
Personally, I think what makes Above & Below stand out is its willingness to embrace the absurd. The premise is straightforward: friends on a diving trip, criminals on the same boat, sharks in the water. It’s a recipe for disaster, but the film doesn’t try to be anything more than a wild ride. What many people don’t realize is that the best B-movies aren’t about groundbreaking storytelling—they’re about delivering exactly what the audience expects, but with a twist. Here, the twist is Antonio Banderas as a charismatic crime boss, and it’s a delight.
The Characters: Dumb Decisions, Maximum Entertainment
One thing that immediately stands out is how hilariously bad the characters’ decisions are. From my perspective, this is where the film shines. The protagonists are so oblivious to their own peril that it’s impossible not to laugh. Laura Marano’s Tatiana, for instance, is portrayed as someone who’s supposed to be skilled but ends up looking more like a lucky amateur. What this really suggests is that the film isn’t trying to make us root for these characters—it’s inviting us to laugh at their stupidity. And honestly? It’s refreshing.
The criminals, on the other hand, steal the show. Antonio Banderas as Burns is a masterclass in over-the-top villainy. His twisted logic and unpredictable behavior make him the most entertaining part of the film. If you take a step back and think about it, Banderas’ performance is a reminder of how much fun actors can have when they’re not constrained by serious roles. Louis Mandylor as the unhinged henchman adds the perfect dose of sleaze and danger. Together, they elevate the film from forgettable to oddly memorable.
Sharks: The Sidekick Threat
Here’s where things get interesting. Despite being a shark movie, Above & Below treats the sharks more like obstacles than the main attraction. What makes this particularly fascinating is how it subverts expectations. The sharks are well-executed—the FX are competent, and the creatures feel menacing without being overly cartoonish. But they’re not the stars of the show. In fact, more characters die from gunshots than shark attacks.
This raises a deeper question: what does it mean for a shark movie when the sharks aren’t the primary threat? Personally, I think it’s a bold choice. The film leans into the campiness of its human villains, making the sharks feel almost secondary. It’s not a traditional approach, but it works for what the film is trying to achieve. That said, I can’t help but feel a bit conflicted. As a fan of ocean monster cinema, I wanted more shark action. But maybe that’s the point—to keep us wanting more.
The Camp Factor: A Double-Edged Sword
What many people don’t realize is that campiness is a delicate balance. Too much, and it becomes cringe-worthy. Too little, and it falls flat. Above & Below walks this line surprisingly well. The underwater dialogue is clearly ADR’d, and the performances don’t always match, but it adds to the charm. The film doesn’t take itself seriously, and that’s its greatest strength.
However, this campiness also means there’s no real tension. The characters are so oblivious that it’s hard to feel invested in their survival. This is definitely a “cheer when they die” kind of film, which is fine—but it limits the emotional stakes. If you’re looking for a heart-pounding thriller, this isn’t it. But if you’re in the mood for a laughably absurd adventure, it delivers.
Final Thoughts: A Guilty Pleasure
Above & Below isn’t a great film by any stretch of the imagination. But it’s not trying to be. What it is, however, is a fun, campy escape that doesn’t overstay its welcome. In a year of shark movies that miss the mark, this one at least knows how to have a good time.
From my perspective, the film’s greatest achievement is its self-awareness. It knows it’s a B-movie, and it embraces that identity fully. Antonio Banderas’ performance alone is worth the price of admission, and the absurdity of the plot keeps things entertaining. Sure, it could have used more shark action, but maybe that’s a conversation for the sequel.
If you take a step back and think about it, Above & Below is a reminder of why we love B-movies in the first place. They’re not about perfection—they’re about fun. And in that regard, this film succeeds admirably.
So, is Above & Below worth watching? Personally, I think it is—if you’re in the right mood. Grab some popcorn, turn off your brain, and enjoy the ride. Just don’t expect it to be anything more than what it is: a delightfully dumb good time.
