Ah sharks! Those magnificent creatures of the deep so misunderstood and often demonized in cinema.
But let’s face it a good shark movie can be a real treat.
A thrilling rollercoaster of adrenaline suspense and sometimes just plain silly fun.
So let’s dive into the world of shark movies shall we? I’ve been around the block a few times and I’ve seen my fair share of flicks both good and bad.
And I think I’ve got a list that’ll tickle your fancy.
You want more sharky goodness? 🦈 Dive into a huge list of amazing shark movies!
20 Sharks Worth Watching: Dive into the Best Shark Movies on Netflix and Beyond
You want more sharky goodness? 🦈 Dive into a huge list of amazing shark movies!
Now before we jump in I want to be upfront: this ain’t about Jaws. Everyone knows Jaws right? That’s a classic but we’re looking for something a little more unique. Something that might surprise you make you laugh maybe even scare you a bit. Think of it as a treasure hunt but with sharks instead of buried gold.
The Real Deal: Gripping Encounters with Jaws of Steel
First up we’ve got some serious contenders movies that truly capture the essence of the great white the fear the power the sheer awe-inspiring nature of these incredible creatures.
1. 47 Meters Down (2017)
Oh this one gets under your skin.
Two sisters trapped in a cage surrounded by sharks.
Talk about claustrophobia! The tension is palpable the visuals are top-notch and you can almost feel the icy grip of fear.
This one’s a real nail-biter folks.
I won’t spoil the ending but let’s just say you won’t be forgetting it anytime soon.
2. The Shallows (2016)
Blake Lively all alone on a rock with a big hungry shark circling.
The suspense is masterful the isolation is chilling and Blake’s performance is truly something to behold.
This movie is a masterclass in how to build tension and make you care deeply about a character’s survival.
It’s raw it’s powerful and it’ll have you gasping for air along with the protagonist.
3. Bait (2012)
This Aussie thriller takes the classic “trapped in a confined space” scenario and cranks up the intensity.
A tsunami traps a group of people in a supermarket but the real threat? The sharks that get washed in with the flood.
It’s a desperate struggle for survival with no easy answers.
This one will stay with you long after the credits roll.
4. Open Water (2003)
Based on a true story Open Water is a stark unsettling reminder of the power of nature. A couple accidentally gets left behind by a dive boat stranded in the middle of the ocean with nothing but their wits and a whole lot of fear. The film’s minimalist style is both effective and unsettling leaving you feeling utterly vulnerable and connected to the couple’s plight.
5. Deep Blue Sea (1999)
A bit of a classic this one and for good reason.
It’s got Samuel L.
Jackson a killer shark that’s smarter than your average fish and some seriously impressive underwater CGI for its time.
The scientists trapped in their underwater lab face a truly terrifying threat.
This one’s a mix of action suspense and science fiction making for a thrilling and thought-provoking watch.
B-Movie Bonanza: Shark-tastic Fun for the Whole Family (Maybe)
now for the fun stuff.
The movies that are so over-the-top so ridiculous so utterly insane they become an entirely new genre of entertainment.
These are the shark movies you watch with a group of friends a big bowl of popcorn and a healthy dose of skepticism.
6. Sharknado (2013)
Yes Sharknado. I know what you’re thinking but hear me out. It’s bad it’s cheesy it’s over-the-top it’s… utterly hilarious. It’s so bad it’s good and the sheer audacity of the premise (sharks raining down on Los Angeles via a tornado) is what makes it such a guilty pleasure. It’s the popcorn movie of all popcorn movies and there are several sequels to boot.
7. Mega Shark vs. Giant Octopus (2009)
You can’t have Sharknado without Mega Shark. This is where it gets really ridiculous folks. A prehistoric megalodon shark battling a giant octopus in a battle for control of the Pacific Ocean. It’s a campy B-movie classic and the special effects are so bad they’re good. Prepare for a whole lot of laughter head-shaking and maybe a little bit of awe at the pure absurdity of it all.
8. Shark Attack 3: Megalodon (2002)
I have to include this one just for the sheer audacity of the title.
It’s about a giant prehistoric shark terrorizing a remote island.
The special effects are… well let’s just say they’re not the most polished.
But that’s part of the charm.
The plot is predictably cheesy but the movie delivers on its promise of over-the-top shark-filled mayhem.
9. The Last Shark (1981)
Here’s a blast from the past.
A classic B-movie with a killer shark terrorizing the beaches of Florida.
It’s got the classic tropes: the clueless teenagers the bikini-clad women the overly-enthusiastic sheriff and of course the shark.
It’s not going to win any awards for originality but it’s pure fun and it’s definitely worth a watch if you’re in the mood for a dose of 80s nostalgia.
10. 2 Heads of a Shark (1989)
This is a real head-scratcher (pun intended). Two heads on one shark? That’s the premise.
It’s a campy horror film with some truly bizarre moments.
If you’re looking for a truly unique shark movie and you’re not afraid of the bizarre give this one a try.
It’s an acquired taste but you might find yourself entertained by its sheer oddity.
Beyond the Big Screen: Sharks on the Small Screen
The world of shark movies isn’t just limited to the big screen.
There are some excellent shark-themed shows streaming online offering a different flavor of the genre.
11. Sharkwater (2006)
This documentary dives into the world of shark finning exposing the devastating impact of this practice on shark populations.
It’s a powerful moving and eye-opening film offering a glimpse into the plight of these magnificent creatures and the people fighting to protect them.
12. Blue Water White Death (1971)
This classic documentary follows the real-life exploits of a team of divers as they try to capture footage of great white sharks in their natural habitat.
It’s a thrilling dangerous and ultimately inspiring look at the world of these incredible creatures.
13. Planet Earth (2006)
While not strictly a shark documentary this BBC series features some incredible footage of sharks in their natural habitat.
The episode featuring great white sharks off the coast of South Africa is particularly breathtaking.
14. Great White: The Real Jaws (2016)
This documentary dives into the science behind great white sharks dispelling myths and exploring the real-life behavior of these creatures.
It’s a fascinating look at the world of sharks from a scientific perspective offering insights into their biology behavior and the role they play in the marine ecosystem.
Don’t Forget the Classics: A Few Must-See Shark Movies From the Past
While we’ve focused on more recent releases there are some classic shark movies that are still worth watching today.
These films helped shape the genre and continue to resonate with audiences.
15. Jaws 2 (1978)
It wouldn’t be right to skip over Jaws 2 would it? This sequel to the original Jaws is a solid thriller building on the fear and suspense of the first film. It’s not quite as groundbreaking but it’s still a fun action-packed adventure that will have you on the edge of your seat.
16. Jaws 3-D (1983)
This one is a bit of a guilty pleasure but it’s worth watching for the sheer spectacle.
It’s a fun cheesy and sometimes ridiculous adventure filled with the classic shark movie tropes.
And of course there’s the 3D aspect which was a real novelty back in the day.
17. Deep Blue Sea 2 (2018)
Don’t let the “2” fool you. This sequel isn’t a direct continuation of the original Deep Blue Sea but it’s still a fun action-packed thriller. It’s got a great cast some impressive visual effects and a story that will keep you entertained.
18. The Reef (2010)
This Australian thriller offers a terrifying and realistic look at the dangers of the ocean.
It’s a slow-burning suspenseful film with a great sense of realism.
The shark attacks are brutal and unsettling and the film’s focus on the characters’ struggle for survival is truly gripping.
19. 47 Meters Down: Uncaged (2019)
This sequel to 47 Meters Down takes the underwater terror to new depths. A group of teenage girls find themselves trapped in an underwater cave system surrounded by sharks. The film’s claustrophobic setting and intense action sequences will have you holding your breath.
20. The Meg (2018)
This film brings the prehistoric megalodon shark back to life and it’s a spectacle you won’t want to miss.
With Jason Statham as the hero it’s a fast-paced action-packed adventure that’s sure to satisfy your craving for shark-filled thrills.
A Final Thought on the Fins
As we’ve seen the world of shark movies offers something for everyone whether you’re seeking pure adrenaline-pumping thrills a touch of lighthearted fun or a thought-provoking glimpse into the world of these misunderstood creatures.
So grab your popcorn settle in and enjoy the ride! Who knows you might just discover a new favorite shark movie.
And remember folks respect the ocean respect the sharks.
They’re beautiful powerful creatures that deserve our protection not our fear.
You want more sharky goodness? 🦈 Dive into a huge list of amazing shark movies!