Now, for the record, I’m not usually drawn to horror films. But with Jai Courtney playing a shark-obsessed serial killer, and sharks in supporting roles – how could I resist?
Dangerous Animals is a co-production between Australia and America. The film is survival-horror, and Aussie director Sean Byrnes brings his unique blend of psychological horror, violence and comedy into it, making it horrifying yet quite fun film to watch.
The premise of the movie is simple. Tucker (Courtney) runs a shark adventure tour business, but he also kidnaps young women who won’t be missed, then films them being fed to sharks. He likes the theatre of it, but when he takes American
backpacker Zephyr, he meets his match.
Hassie Harrison (of Yellowstone fame) brings fierce energy as Zephyr, the film’s no- nonsense protagonist. Her character has depth and we understand her backstory in subtle ways, learning quickly that nothing is beyond scope for her to survive (no spoilers but I covered my eyes).
Jai Courtney’s character Tucker brings the comedy while being a terrifying menace at the same time. He is disturbingly good in this role, you can tell he relishes playing a psycho.
The action unfolds mostly at sea, and the cinematography makes strong use of contrasting sweeping wide shots highlighting the vastness and isolation of the ocean, with claustrophobic close-ups that crank up the tension and sense of entrapment.
I really enjoyed the nod to horror classics like Wolf Creek, Silence of the Lambs, and of course, Jaws. There are subtle musical cues and visual nods throughout, and the climax cleverly reminds us that perhaps sharks aren’t the monsters they’re made out to be.
Dangerous Animals is in cinemas now. If you’re game for something gory and darkly funny then give it a try.