DCSIMG
 
 

The Abyss (1989) Reviews

The Abyss (1989)
Play Trailer and Clips
Member Rating:  
The crew of an experimental, high-tech submersible is called into action to investigate a mysterious nuclear submarine crash. A series of strange encounters leads the crew to suspect the accident was caused by an extraterrestrial craft, and that they may be participating in an encounter with an alien species. However, in order to make contact, they must not only brave the abyss, an exceedingly deep underwater canyon, but also deal with the violent actions of one of their own crew members, an increasingly paranoid Navy SEAL officer. Approved by director James Cameron, The Abyss: Special Edition is an extended director's cut of the 1989 underwater science fiction epic, reinstating nearly a half hour of footage removed from the original release under studio pressure. Much of the restored footage places the film's events in a grander political context, as the crew's mission becomes a factor in the dangerous escalation of nuclear tension between the U.S. and the Soviet Union. The largest change involves the film's ending, which provides further information on the aliens' mission on Earth, bringing the film to closer to Cameron's intention: a modern remake of Robert Wise's The Day the Earth Stood Still. ~ Judd Blaise, Rovi

 Read More


Starring:
Ed HarrisMary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, (more)
Director(s):
James Cameron
Theatrical MPAA Rating:
PG13
Format(s):
DVD
View All Versions to rent and buy
 
 
 
 

Average Ratings

(28 member reviews)  


Member Reviews


Brian A.

I'll keep this simple. Greatest movie ever. This movie is perfect in every aspect and I feel its very underrated. The acting, the way the whole story unfolds, and the powerful musical score. James Cameron at his best here.

Yes   |   No


Cheryl R.

Loved this movie, a lot of drama, suspense and action, even a couple of bad guys, but they aren't the aliens. The ending is really moving and heartwarming. About as close to perfect as it gets.

Yes   |   No


Scott O.

It's alright, but moves a little slow. I watched the theater edition, not the longer directors cut. Has a bit of a political message, as well as a fantasy close encounters thing. Some good action, some good underwater effects. Story is alright, moves too slow at times, leaves some things unsaid/unanswered.

Yes   |   No


Daniel D.

I LOVE THIS MOVIE TWO

Yes   |   No


David Donna S.

Good movie. Donna S

Yes   |   No


Donald K.

What a beautiful movie. The color and ocean scenes are terrific. The story is a forerunner to Cameron's Avatar. I think this a better movie with a stronger plot, better acting and a more plausible story.

Yes   |   No


Elaine K.

Older movie mentioned in the Dan Brown novel 'Lost Symbol'--I enjoyed it. Entertaining, kept me keenly interested.

Yes   |   No


Anne C.

The movie, breathtaking at it sounds was very enticing, and it reminded me of another movie by the name of E.T. The aliens, mysterious were discovered to be very friendly, and magical. I have never seen a movie as miraculous as this one. The acting was superb, and even if some shots were omitted, the messages were clear behind the film. It would take a little detective work to find that out.

Yes   |   No


Arturo M.

Fun times with James Cameron as usual, a great cast, I love Ed Harris in just about everything he stars in.

Yes   |   No


Scott S.

I believe reviewer Brian A. (due to the length of the movie) got a little delirious. Hint movie viewers...it always pays to keep nibling on some food when watching mega-length features!!! Granted Chris Elliot turned in a stellar performance, but even he couldn't push my opinion of this flick beyond a mere so-so rating. The alien creatures were ridiculous. Interesting that they could stop a tidal wave, but not get decent tv reception on their spaceship...duh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yes   |   No


 
 
 

BY MAIL

Monthly Subscription
NEW! 7 - Day Rental
No subscription required. Usually ships in 24 hours.
 
BuyPreviously Viewed   $2.39
(disc only) 

New  $10.99
 

IN-STORE

 

ON DEMAND

Blockbuster Instant Video

Watch thousands of movies instantly on your TV, tablet, mobile phone or computer with no monthly subscription. You pay only for what you watch.
 

What's Your Take?

Add to FavoritesIn Favorites  |  Share:     Email to a friendShare on FacebookShare on Twitter
    YOUR REVIEW
    WRITE A REVIEW
     
    1000 
     
    Member Reviews
     
    Brian A.

    I'll keep this simple. Greatest movie ever. This movie is perfect in every aspect and I feel its very underrated. The acting, the way the whole story unfolds, and the powerful musical score. James Cameron at his best here.

    Yes   |   No

     
    Cheryl R.

    Loved this movie, a lot of drama, suspense and action, even a couple of bad guys, but they aren't the aliens. The ending is really moving and heartwarming. About as close to perfect as it gets.

    Yes   |   No

     
    Scott O.

    It's alright, but moves a little slow. I watched the theater edition, not the longer directors cut. Has a bit of a political message, as well as a fantasy close encounters thing. Some good action, some good underwater effects. Story is alright, moves too slow at times, leaves some things unsaid/unanswered.

    Yes   |   No

     
    Read All 28 Reviews