Is Blake Lively's New Shark Thriller Dominating Hulu's Charts?

The Shallows, a gripping survival thriller released in 2016, has made a notable return to streaming services, ranking 12th on Hulu's Top 15 movies in the United States. Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra and starring Blake Lively, the film tells the story of a medical student who finds herself stranded 200 yards from shore, confronting a great white shark. With its blend of suspense, solid performances, and a unique approach to the shark-attack genre, The Shallows demonstrates enduring appeal nearly a decade after its initial release.

Last updated: 17 September 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The Shallows ranks 12th on Hulu’s streaming chart as of September 17, 2023.
• The film was a box office success, grossing over £91 million against a production budget of £10-£13 million.
• It received positive reviews, with a Rotten Tomatoes score of 79%.
• The movie’s success stems from its innovative use of CGI and compelling narrative.
• The Shallows continues the legacy of shark movies, following the iconic Jaws.

Overview of The Shallows

The Shallows is a survival thriller that combines elements of horror, drama, and adventure. Blake Lively stars as Nancy Adams, a medical student who visits a secluded beach to surf. However, her idyllic day quickly turns into a fight for survival when she is attacked by a great white shark. The film's narrative is built around her struggle to survive, relying on her wits and determination.

Box Office Performance

Upon its release, The Shallows was a commercial triumph. It grossed over £91 million globally, which is approximately eight times its modest production budget of £10-£13 million. This financial success is impressive, particularly for a film of its genre and budget. The profit margin, estimated between £76.6 million and £86.6 million, showcases the film's strong appeal at the box office and its ability to attract audiences despite being led by a relatively lesser-known actress at the time.

Critical Reception

The film received generally positive reviews, earning a Rotten Tomatoes score of 79%. Critics praised its tight pacing, suspenseful sequences, and Lively's standout performance. The Shallows was noted for rising above typical shark-attack clichés, offering a fresh perspective on the genre. Many reviews highlighted the film's ability to create tension and fear without relying heavily on gore or excessive violence.

Streaming Comeback

After starting to stream on Hulu on September 11, The Shallows quickly climbed to 12th place on their chart. Its resurgence is indicative of the ongoing popularity of shark films and survival stories. As viewers seek engaging content, The Shallows has capitalised on nostalgia and curiosity, particularly among audiences who may have missed it during its original release. The film is expected to continue climbing the Hulu chart in the coming days, reflecting a sustained interest in its thrilling narrative.

What The Shallows Offers to Audiences

The Shallows offers a unique blend of suspense and survival drama, setting it apart from traditional shark horror films. Unlike Jaws, which was released in 1975 and is often regarded as the benchmark for shark films, The Shallows employs a modern approach by using CGI for the shark. This technique allowed for more creative freedom in depicting the shark's movements and behaviours, contributing to the film's intense atmosphere.

Production Details

Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, The Shallows showcases a proficient use of visual effects and practical filming techniques. While the shark was created entirely through CGI, the filmmakers opted to shoot several scenes on location, enhancing the film's realism. This decision helped avoid the overly stylised look that can often plague films relying solely on digital effects.

The Legacy of Shark Movies

Shark films have been a staple in cinema since the release of Jaws, which not only set the standard for the genre but also created a cultural phenomenon. Following Jaws, numerous shark-themed films have attempted to replicate its success, with varying degrees of failure. The Shallows, however, stands out by focusing more on the psychological aspects of survival rather than just the horror elements. This evolution in storytelling has revitalised interest in the genre, attracting both new and returning audiences.

What’s Next for The Shallows?

As The Shallows continues to gain traction on streaming platforms, its success may lead to a renewed interest in similar survival thrillers. The film's ability to engage viewers nearly a decade after its release indicates a potential for sequels or spin-offs within the genre. Additionally, the rising popularity of streaming services means that audiences can revisit classic films like The Shallows, ensuring their legacy endures.

Conclusion

The Shallows’ resurgence on streaming platforms exemplifies the film's lasting impact and appeal. With its clever storytelling, strong performances, and innovative use of effects, it continues to captivate audiences. As more viewers discover or revisit this thrilling tale of survival, it reinforces the notion that well-crafted films can endure and thrive in a rapidly changing entertainment landscape.

As we reflect on the legacy of shark movies, one must consider: What new stories will emerge in this genre, and how will filmmakers continue to innovate? #TheShallows #SharkMovies #SurvivalThriller

FAQs

What is The Shallows about?

The Shallows follows Nancy Adams, a medical student who becomes stranded 200 yards from shore while surfing. She must confront a great white shark in a fight for survival.

Who directed The Shallows?

The Shallows was directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, known for his work on various thrillers and action films.

When was The Shallows released?

The Shallows was released in the United States on 24 June 2016 and has since gained attention through streaming services.

What is the Rotten Tomatoes score for The Shallows?

The Shallows has a Rotten Tomatoes score of 79%, indicating generally positive reviews from critics.

How much did The Shallows make at the box office?

The Shallows grossed over £91 million worldwide, making it a significant financial success relative to its production budget of £10-£13 million.