As a single pringle, I have no business with whatever is going on today. I had enough on TikTok and almost bawled my eyes out but then, I remembered I could distract myself for a while by watching a messed up love story. So, I went in search and got the perfect film for that purpose. Lol.
Deep Water, is a psychological thriller that promises suspense, tension while shedding light into the complexities of marriage and desire. With Adrian Lyne, the director of Fatal Attraction and Unfaithful, at the helm, I expected a gripping exploration of obsession and jealousy but what I got was a film that simmers with potential but struggles to reach a satisfying boil.
Synopsis
The movie follows Vic (Ben Affleck) and Melinda Van Allen (Ana de Armas), a wealthy married couple trapped in a loveless, tension, jealousy filled relationship but instead of divorcing, they maintain an unusual arrangement. Melinda is free to pursue other lovers, while Vic feigns to tolerate her affairs. However, when Melinda’s lovers begin to disappear under mysterious circumstances, suspicion falls on Vic.
Review and Personal Criticism
One thing this movie thrives on is atmosphere. Adrian Lyne creates a world that feels sultry and unsettling, using slow-burning tension to make the audience uncomfortable. The cinematography, with its dimly lit interiors and shadowy frames, perfectly captures the toxicity of Vic and Melinda’s marriage which I applaud.
Ben Affleck gives a strong performance, embodying Vic’s quiet, brooding demeanor with chilling precision. His expressions say more than his words, creating a character who is both pitiful and menacing. Ana de Armas, on the other hand, brings a provocative intensity to Melinda, though the script limits her character’s depth as she is reduced to a mere object of desire and cruelty which was somewhat annoying.
I also admire the chemistry between Affleck and de Armas. It’s palpable, but the film struggles with its pacing. While the tension builds nicely in the first half, the middle drags, and the plot becomes kinda repetitive. The scenes of Melinda’s affairs and Vic’s passive-aggressive responses begin to feel like a cycle without escalation.
One of my biggest criticisms is the film’s handling of suspense. The central mystery, whether Vic is responsible for the deaths, is undercut by how early the movie reveals its cards. There’s little ambiguity, which diminishes the psychological edge that could have kept me guessing. The final act feels rushed and unsatisfying, with a conclusion that leaves more questions than answers.
The film also misses an opportunity to explore deeper themes. It does hint at the complexities of power, control, and resentment in marriage but never fully commits to these ideas. Instead, it settles for surface level tension and shock value.
It does offer an intriguing premise and strong performances, but it struggles to deliver on its potential. The slow-burn tension and toxic relationship narrative are engaging, but the payoff feels weak due to predictable plot turns and an underwhelming climax. It’s a film that flirts with greatness but ultimately sinks into mediocrity.
Rating it a ⅗.
Happy Valentines to you if you read this far💕
It sounds like the kind of movie that draws you in with the trailer... Ben Affleck playing a taciturn and obsessive guy, it must be his comfort zone, but I admit that I'm curious to see him alongside Ana de Armas... good review!