Below (2002)

“Below” (2002) is a supernatural horror film directed by David Twohy and written by Darren Aronofsky, Lucas Sussman, and David Twohy. The film stars Bruce Greenwood, Matthew Davis, Olivia Williams, and Holt McCallany.

Set during World War II, the story unfolds aboard the U.S.S. Tiger Shark, an American submarine on a mission in the Atlantic Ocean. The film begins with the submarine rescuing three survivors from a British hospital ship that was sunk by the Germans. The survivors include Claire Paige (Olivia Williams), a British nurse; Kingsley (Dexter Fletcher), a wounded British soldier; and Stumbo (Nick Chinlund), an American soldier.
As the crew continues their mission with the new passengers onboard, they begin to experience a series of strange and unsettling events. The submarine’s Captain, Lieutenant Brice (Bruce Greenwood), tries to maintain order and dismisses the incidents as mere coincidences or mechanical issues. However, it soon becomes clear that there is something more sinister at play.

Tensions rise as the supernatural occurrences escalate, causing paranoia and fear among the crew. The submarine appears to be haunted by an unseen force, leading to hallucinations, inexplicable malfunctions, and eerie encounters. The atmosphere becomes increasingly claustrophobic as the crew members struggle to understand and combat the malevolent presence.

The film delves into themes of guilt, redemption, and the psychological effects of war. As the mystery unfolds, secrets about the submarine’s past and its crew come to light, revealing a connection between the supernatural events and a tragic incident that occurred earlier in the mission.
“Below” is praised for its atmospheric tension, combining elements of war drama with supernatural horror. The confined setting of the submarine amplifies the sense of dread and claustrophobia, making for a gripping and suspenseful narrative. The performances of the cast, particularly Bruce Greenwood and Olivia Williams, add depth to the story, portraying characters grappling with fear, guilt, and the unknown.

The film received mixed reviews from critics but has since gained a cult following for its unique blend of genres and its effective use of suspense and horror. “Below” stands out as a compelling and eerie wartime ghost story, offering a different take on both the war and horror genres.