In the realm of late 1990s cinema, where visual effects were rapidly advancing and monsters were in vogue, a peculiar film emerged, one that has since been largely forgotten by the masses. This film, 'Deep Rising', directed by Stephen Sommers, was a creature feature that, on the surface, seemed to be a combination of 'Jaws' and 'The Poseidon Adventure'. But what makes this movie truly fascinating, and what has kept it in the minds of certain critics, is the intense dislike it garnered from none other than the legendary Roger Ebert. In my opinion, Ebert's scathing review of 'Deep Rising' is a fascinating insight into the world of monster movies and the critical eye of one of the most respected film critics of our time.
The Monster Movie Trend
The late 1990s saw a mini-wave of original monster movies, each attempting to capitalize on the success of 'Alien' and other sci-fi horror classics. These films, including 'Deep Rising', 'Lake Placid', 'Deep Blue Sea', 'The Relic', 'Anaconda', 'Bats', and 'Mimic', were a testament to the era's fascination with monsters and the advancements in visual effects technology. Personally, I find this trend particularly intriguing, as it showcases the power of cinema to transport audiences to different worlds, whether it's the depths of the ocean or the dark corners of the earth.
'Deep Rising': A Derivative Work?
Ebert's review of 'Deep Rising' is a scathing critique of its derivative nature. He opens by noting that the film repeats the formula of 'Alien', a movie that was 19 years old at the time. He argues that the monster in 'Deep Rising' has excellent timing, always appearing at the right moment to scare the dwindling survivors. However, he questions whether Hollywood executives should talk more to avoid rehashing one another's movies. In my view, Ebert's point is a valid one, as it highlights the importance of originality in cinema. What many people don't realize is that while 'Deep Rising' may have been derivative, it was also a product of its time, reflecting the trends and influences of the late 1990s.
The Cast and Action
Despite its derivative nature, 'Deep Rising' does have its strengths. The cast, featuring Kevin J. O'Connor, Wes Studi, Cliff Curtis, Jason Flemyng, and Djimon Honsou, is impressive, and the action sequences are slick and engaging. I, for one, found the monster to be fun and the cast to be a compelling ensemble. However, these elements alone cannot save the film from its derivative plot and lack of narrative twists.
The Twist Ending: A Fun Punchline?
One of the most intriguing aspects of 'Deep Rising' is its twist ending. At the end of the movie, the few survivors escape the squid monster and wash up on a distant, uncharted isle. However, as they relax and joke about their escape, an unholy roar is heard from the nearby jungle. The camera pulls back, revealing a giant creature lurking in the shadows. This twist ending is certainly a fun punchline, but it's not an earth-shattering revelation. In my opinion, it's a clever little wink, but it doesn't quite live up to the potential of a truly surprising ending.
Ebert's Dislike: A Personal Perspective
Roger Ebert's dislike of 'Deep Rising' is a fascinating insight into his critical eye. He opens his review by noting that the film is a stellar example of a truly awful monster flick. However, he also acknowledges that he isn't anti-monster movie in general, having given 'Mimic' a near-perfect score the year prior. This contradiction is intriguing, as it suggests that Ebert's dislike of 'Deep Rising' may have been more personal than just a critique of its derivative nature. In my opinion, Ebert's review is a testament to the power of personal taste in cinema, and it highlights the importance of critical perspective in evaluating a film's strengths and weaknesses.
The Legacy of 'Deep Rising'
Despite its critical and commercial failure, 'Deep Rising' has managed to maintain a certain level of interest. Director Stephen Sommers bounced back immediately with his remake of 'The Mummy', which became a proper box office smash. However, 'Deep Rising' remains a largely forgotten film, hastily forgotten by audiences and critics alike. In my view, this is a shame, as the film has its moments and offers a fascinating insight into the world of monster movies and the critical eye of Roger Ebert.
A Final Reflection
In conclusion, 'Deep Rising' is a film that, while derivative, has its strengths and weaknesses. Ebert's scathing review is a fascinating insight into the world of monster movies and the critical eye of one of the most respected film critics of our time. Personally, I find the film to be a compelling example of the late 1990s cinema, and I believe it deserves a second look from audiences and critics alike.
