Dark Water (2002) Review in 2025
A psychological horror film about a mother's desperate search for her missing daughter, uncovering dark secrets and supernatural forces.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for young children due to intense and disturbing themes.
CineReview Recommendation
Recommended for fans of psychological horror and thriller movies. Suitable for streaming or watching in theaters.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The film revolves around Yoshimi Matsubara, a mother who is struggling to cope with her daughter's disappearance. As she delves deeper into the mystery, she discovers a dark presence in the apartment building, which may be connected to her daughter's disappearance.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a strong focus on the mother's emotional journey. However, some plot twists feel predictable and convenient.
acting8.00/10
The acting is strong, particularly from Cate Blanchett, who brings depth and nuance to her character. However, some supporting actors feel miscast.
characters7.00/10
The characters are well-developed, particularly Yoshimi, who is a complex and relatable protagonist. However, some supporting characters feel underdeveloped.
direction8.00/10
The direction is effective in creating a tense and atmospheric environment. However, some scenes feel overly reliant on jump scares.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with a focus on dark and muted colors. The use of lighting is particularly effective in creating a sense of unease.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Effective atmosphere, strong performances, and a engaging story.
Cons
Predictable plot twists, underdeveloped supporting characters, and some reliance on jump scares.
Notable Quotes
"'I'm not going to let you take my daughter away from me.'"
"'You're not listening to me, are you?'"
