The Shark Movie That Sank Before It Swam: A Commentary on 'Chum' and the State of Cinematic Thrills
There’s something undeniably nostalgic about a good shark movie. It’s a genre that, for better or worse, has become a cultural touchstone—a reminder of simpler times when a giant fish and a few screams could keep us on the edge of our seats. But Chum, the latest entry into this aquatic arena, isn’t just a misstep; it’s a full-on belly flop. Personally, I think what makes this particularly fascinating is how it manages to fail in ways that feel both predictable and bizarrely innovative.
The Plot: A Recipe for Disaster (or Boredom)
Let’s start with the premise: a newlywed couple, a yacht, a shark, and a psychopathic killer. On paper, it sounds like a recipe for tension and thrills. But in execution? It’s more like a recipe for confusion and eye-rolling. What many people don’t realize is that the shark movie genre is a delicate balance of suspense and spectacle. Jaws mastered it; Chum misses it by a mile.
The characters are so thinly written that I found myself rooting for the shark within the first 15 minutes. The newlyweds hate each other, their friends are forgettable, and the killer’s motivations feel like an afterthought. If you take a step back and think about it, this isn’t just bad writing—it’s a missed opportunity. A shark movie lives or dies by its human drama, and Chum doesn’t even bother to show up for the autopsy.
AI in the Water: When Technology Becomes the Villain
One thing that immediately stands out is the film’s use of AI in its post-production. The shark attacks, which should be the heart-pounding centerpiece, look like a child’s animation project gone wrong. The real shark footage is spliced with AI-generated carnage, resulting in a jarring, floaty mess. What this really suggests is that technology, when misused, can become the villain of the story—not the shark.
From my perspective, this is a cautionary tale for filmmakers. AI has the potential to revolutionize cinema, but it’s not a magic wand. When it’s used as a crutch rather than a tool, the result is something that feels cheap and soulless. The shark in Chum isn’t just a predator; it’s a symbol of what happens when creativity is sacrificed for convenience.
The Unintentional Comedy of It All
Here’s where things get interesting: Chum is so bad that it’s almost good. The slow-motion shots of mundane actions, the over-the-top music cues, and the laughable dialogue all combine to create a film that’s unintentionally hilarious. In my opinion, this is where Chum finds its redeeming quality—not as a thriller, but as a comedy of errors.
What makes this particularly fascinating is how it taps into the cult appeal of B-movies. Films like Sharknado embrace their absurdity, turning it into a strength. Chum, however, seems to take itself seriously, which only amplifies the absurdity. If you’re looking for a movie to laugh at rather than with, Chum delivers in spades.
The Broader Implications: What Does Chum Say About Modern Cinema?
This raises a deeper question: why do we keep making shark movies if they’re so hard to get right? Part of it, I think, is the allure of the formula. Sharks are universal villains—they don’t need backstories or motivations. But Chum reminds us that even the simplest formulas require effort and care.
What this really suggests is that the film industry is struggling to balance innovation with tradition. AI and other technologies offer new ways to tell stories, but they can’t replace the fundamentals of good filmmaking. Chum isn’t just a bad shark movie; it’s a symptom of a larger trend in cinema—one that prioritizes shortcuts over substance.
Final Thoughts: Is Chum Worth Your Time?
Personally, I think Chum is worth watching—but not for the reasons the filmmakers intended. It’s a masterclass in what not to do, a reminder that even the most tired genres can be revitalized with creativity and effort. If you’re looking for a serious thriller, steer clear. But if you’re in the mood for a laughably bad movie night with friends, Chum might just be the perfect choice.
What many people don’t realize is that even the worst films can offer valuable lessons. Chum teaches us that technology isn’t a substitute for storytelling, and that sometimes, the best way to enjoy a movie is to laugh at it. So, if you’re feeling adventurous, grab some popcorn and dive in—just don’t expect to come out dry.
