12 Feet Deep (2017), directed by Matt Eskandari, is a psychological thriller that turns a simple setting into a terrifying ordeal. Inspired by true events, the film follows two sisters, Bree (Nora-Jane Noone) and Jonna (Alexandra Park), who become trapped under the fiberglass cover of a public swimming pool. What starts as a routine swim quickly spirals into a nightmare as they struggle to escape before their oxygen and energy run out.
The film’s greatest strength is its claustrophobic atmosphere. By keeping the entire story confined to the pool, 12 Feet Deep creates an intense sense of isolation and helplessness. The close-up shots and dim lighting enhance the feeling of suffocation, making the audience feel trapped alongside the characters. The director skillfully builds tension with minimal resources, proving that a strong concept can drive suspense without the need for elaborate settings.
Noone and Park deliver solid performances, effectively portraying the complex relationship between the two sisters. Their backstories are revealed through their conversations, uncovering past traumas, sibling rivalry, and emotional wounds that resurface under stress. This character depth adds an emotional layer to the film, making it more than just a survival thriller.
The addition of a troubled janitor (Diane Farr), who discovers their predicament but chooses to exploit their suffering rather than help, introduces an extra layer of psychological tension. While her motivations could have been explored further, she serves as a menacing wildcard in an already dire situation, increasing the stakes for the sisters.
While 12 Feet Deep is gripping for most of its runtime, some moments feel repetitive, and certain plot points rely on convenient circumstances. However, the film succeeds in delivering a tense, nerve-wracking experience with strong performances and effective storytelling. It may not redefine the survival thriller genre, but it offers a chilling and engaging watch for those who enjoy contained psychological dramas.
