Prime Video’s new shark attack film, ‘The Devil’s Mouth,’ has been met with criticism for its lack of originality and predictable storyline. The movie, directed by Jeff Wadlow, features Kathryn Newton and Lana Condor as part of a group of college students who encounter a bull shark while exploring underground caves in Thailand.
The film’s plot follows the group, including Newton’s character Sara and Condor’s character Max, as they ignore numerous warning signs – such as aggressive monkeys, stinging jellyfish, a dead sea turtle, and a cave filled with deceased fish – indicating danger. Their decision to proceed with a more “adventurous” route through the cave system, known as the Devil’s Mouth, is largely attributed to Max’s persuasive nature.
Reviewers have noted that the film borrows heavily from established shark thrillers and survival horror movies, drawing comparisons to ‘Jaws,’ ‘The Shallows,’ and ‘The Descent.’ However, the consensus is that ‘The Devil’s Mouth’ fails to innovate within these familiar genres, resulting in a story that offers little in the way of surprise or excitement.
While Newton’s performance is acknowledged as a positive aspect, managing to elevate the material, the overall character development is described as rudimentary. The narrative relies on common tropes, including an exotic setting, basic character arcs, and a predator exacting vengeance on oblivious characters.
The film’s title itself is highlighted for its potential double meaning, but critics argue that this, along with jump scares and fakeouts, does little to salvage a story that feels derivative and ultimately uninspired. The movie has been recommended for skipping, with one review stating it is “dead in the water.”