In December 2004, close-knit family Maria, Henry and their three sons begin their winter vacation in Thailand. But the day after Christmas, the idyllic holiday turns into an incomprehensible nightmare when a terrifying roar rises from the depths of the sea, followed by a wall of black water that devours everything in its path. Though Maria and her family face their darkest hour, unexpected displays of kindness and courage ameliorate their terror.
Acting
Naomi Watts' death-rattle breathing alone deserves awards.
Practical Effects
That water tank destroyed Naomi's body for real.
Direction
Bayona makes drowning feel intimate, not exploitative.
Director
J. A. Bayona
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
The real María Belón visited set daily and fainted during the tsunami recreation. Method acting meets real PTSD.
Thai government initially blocked filming until producers donated $1M to victims. The movie literally profited from the disaster it depicted.
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