A shark swimming in the ocean (LuckyStep/Shutterstock)
You either love or hate them – we’re talking about shark movies. These flicks tap into our primal fear of what’s lurking below, offering us a thrilling mix of suspense, terror, and action. From the iconic “Jaws” that started it all – to today’s modern hits, we can’t seem to look away. Whether you’re here for the edge-of-your-seat thrills or love a good creature feature, we’ve rounded up the top six best shark movies that make the greatest splash. We pulled insights from film critics across seven websites to create our list. So, grab some popcorn (and maybe a life vest), and let’s dive in! If we missed one of your favorites, drop it in the comments below.
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Top 6 Shark Movies for Every Thrill-Seeker
1. “Jaws” (1975)
No surprise here! This Steven Spielberg classic still sets the standard for shark movies – nearly 50 years later. Sure, the animatronics may not match today’s tech, however, critics at Rotten Tomatoes agree that the storyline is timeless. It’s perfectly crafted with just the right amount of terror that rivals any modern blockbuster.
It’s hard to top a classic. Forbes still ranks this film as the best out there, not just for its sharp script, but also for John Williams’ iconic soundtrack and memorable lines like, “You’re gonna need a bigger boat.”
For most, when you hear “shark movie,” your mind immediately goes to “Jaws.” IGN agrees this film remains the ultimate shark flick, that continues to captivate audiences and influence filmmakers.
2. “The Shallows” (2016)
If you’re a Blake Lively fan, “The Shallows” is a must-see. Critics on Rotten Tomatoes praise it as “lean and solidly crafted,” with Lively delivering a powerful performance that elevates this shark thriller above the usual fare. Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, it’s a ride packed with nasty thrills.
Having come out in 2016, this film hasn’t been around as long as others on our list. But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have the potential to be a classic. Vulture says this movie offers a fresh take on the shark attack genre and bears no resemblance to “Jaws.” The film follows Blake Lively as Nancy, a med student stranded just feet from shore but trapped by a determined great white. Lively’s gripping performance and Serra’s focused direction create a tense survival story that stands out by telling a shark tale that’s all its own.
“The Shallows” isn’t based on a true story; however, Forbes says the film has all the right ingredients to terrify. If you’re looking for a shark movie that’ll scare you half to death, this one delivers in spades. It’s truly a remarkable thriller.
3. “Deep Blue Sea” (1999)
Even Samuel L. Jackson can’t escape becoming shark bait in this thrilling shark movie which IGN says blends practical effects with ’90s charm. You really can’t go wrong with a film that has an LL Cool J song about it.
“Deep Blue Sea” has become such a cult hit, that it’s often considered the second-best shark movie after “Jaws.” Director Renny Harlin, known for “Cliffhanger” and “Die Hard 2,” knew he had to go big—so he made his shark a foot longer than the iconic 25-foot great white. With an all-star cast, Forbes believes it delivers action-packed thrills and surprising twists that critics and fans alike have come to love.
One scene can make a movie unforgettable, and “Deep Blue Sea” nails it, according to Vulture. Samuel L. Jackson’s epic monologue about the danger they’re in is suddenly cut short, leaving the audience in shock. It’s a moment that defines Renny Harlin’s 1999 thriller, where genetically engineered sharks outsmart a stranded crew, and it’s worth watching just for that jaw-dropping scene alone.
4. “47 Meters Down” (2017)
As Vulture puts it, when sisters Lisa (Mandy Moore) and Kate (Claire Holt) decide to spice up their Mexican vacation with a sketchy shark dive, what could go wrong? Well, plenty — especially when their cage plummets 47 meters to the ocean floor. With dwindling oxygen, a cage that’s now a trap, and sharks circling, this film is a nightmare for anyone with claustrophobia. The real terror? These sharks don’t need to be megalodons to be utterly terrifying.
Using pitch-black waters to hide lurking sharks, this film masterfully builds nerve-wracking tension as two sisters are swallowed by the abyss. The scares may be familiar, but they pack a punch, showcasing the best of shark cinema. IGN calls it a white-knuckled experience from start to finish.
Forbes warns that “47 Meters Down” might be too intense for some viewers. While critics found the characters underdeveloped, the film’s nerve-wracking realism makes it a must-watch for fans of shark flicks.
5. “The Meg” (2018)
This Chinese American co-production directed by Jon Turteltaub (“National Treasure”), is a global blockbuster designed to appeal to audiences everywhere. While the film features an international cast, the true star is a reawakened megalodon—a prehistoric shark that dwarfs even great whites. Though it’s light on gore, reviewers at Men’s Health guarantee the jaw-dropping shark effects make it a thrilling experience for viewers.
Even with its PG-13 rating, IGN believes “The Meg” still packs plenty of excitement, thanks to its star-studded cast and impressive visuals. The film delivers a fun mix of big action and dramatic moments. It makes a splash even if “The Meg 2” didn’t quite live up to the original.
As IndieWire notes, if anyone can take on a 75-foot aquatic killer, it’s Jason Statham. In the film, he portrays rescue diver Jonas Taylor, who ventures deep into the Mariana Trench to save survivors from a not-so-extinct megalodon. Based on Steve Alten’s 1997 novel, the film was eventually brought to life by Warner Bros. after Disney passed on it.
6. “Open Water” (2003)
“Open Water” is the final movie you should sink your teeth into. Dubbed “The Blair Shark Project,” Vulture says it’s a gripping 2004 thriller that turns its low budget into a chilling strength. With every terrifying, close-up moment, “Open Water” captures the horror of their situation without any unnecessary frills.
And, get this, real sharks star in this film. Real sharks? Absolutely! Unlike the mechanical beast in “Jaws,” this movie amps up the terror with real sharks, thanks to filmmaker Chris Kentis and producer Laura Lau’s scuba obsession. The result? A harrowing, suspenseful thriller that leaves you breathless, so says IGN.
And it’s actually based on true events! IndieWire says the tension starts before the first shark even appears onscreen. When a group of scuba divers is left stranded by their tour boat, the fear of the unknown gradually consumes them—until the real danger arrives, teeth and all. It’s a slow-burn thriller that keeps you on edge from start to finish.
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