Regarding the film Shark, the creators of “Dangerous Animals” recognized the essential ingredient every thriller requires: a serial killer.
This gamble might sound perilous, but the outcome is both gripping and expertly executed, making it a splendid gift for the “Jaws” anniversary. This summer marks our 50th anniversary.
In “Dangerous Animals,” Jay Courtney portrays an Australian boat captain who enjoys feeding and recording female clients for sharks, all while delivering clever remarks about machismo, mosquitoes, and silversides.
He seemingly finds a counterpart in Zephyr, played by Hassie Harrison, an American surf queen who avoids commitment and lives in a van. “There was nothing in track and field,” she remarks. For instance, she can pick a lock using an underwire from her bikini top, much like a serial killer.
Nick Leppard’s screenplay is robust and enjoyable, paying homage not only to “Jaws” but also to “Point Break,” “Hannibal,” and even “Baby Shark.” He mentioned that the idea for “dangerous animals” came from observing a surfboard bag and visualizing it concealing a body.
Director Shawn Burns excels at constructing intense scenarios that strike the viewer without being gratuitous. Although the film was shot on Queensland’s Gold Coast, it often features encounters with the area’s shark cage diving fleet, leaving one to think twice before stepping into the shower.
Zephyr and the Serial Killer engage in a captivating game of chess throughout the film, with stakes revolving around survival—not mere strategy—through handcuffing, evasion, and swimming to avoid becoming a meal for sharks.
“You’re a fighter. I appreciate fighter planes. They’re more entertaining,” he remarks.
He also mirrors the common trope among serial killers, suggesting that he and his victims share traits. “You’re as tough as they come. Just like me. We’re both sharks,” he tells her, leading her to mockingly dismiss him as sea scum.
The soundtrack features playful nods, utilizing tunes like Steve Wright’s “Evie (Part 1)”—with the singer longing for love—and unexpectedly showcasing “At Last” by Etta James as the antagonist captures footage of their prey.
“Dangerous Animal” scene. (IFC film via AP)
The boat’s setting within the coral sea creates a fresh dimension of fear, as there are no sealed hatches or escape routes. The serial killer even finds ways to weaponize Vegemite.
One secret that Zephyr has is her romantic interest, a guy who once attempted to shoplift ice cream. Portrayed by the charming Josh Houston, they seem made for each other, though she initially resists until she is captured by the ruthless boat captain. Nevertheless, her love interest remains skeptical about her well-being while searching for her.
Thankfully, “Dangerous Animals” remains true to its premise and offers stunning visuals of the ocean’s predators, who are the true stars that influenced the title. After all, it raises questions about whether the sharks are capable of storing bodies in surfboard bags.
“Dangerous Animals” was released by IFC Films in theaters on Friday and is rated R for “graphic, bloody violence, disturbing imagery, sexual content, language, and brief drug use.” Its running time is 98 minutes, and I award it three out of four stars.
Source: apnews.com