Horror fans urged to watch 'scariest shark film since Jaws' based on true story

As the iconic shark film Jaws approaches its 50th anniversary this December, fans are being encouraged to dive into another spine-chilling thriller with a similar theme.

The 2003 release Open Water is gaining renewed attention. The film follows Susan and Daniel, a couple who find themselves abandoned in shark-infested waters during a scuba diving excursion.

As hope for rescue dwindles, they face the horrifying reality of their situation and must battle to survive.

The storyline draws inspiration from the chilling real-life incident involving American couple Thomas and Eileen Lonergan. In January 1988, the pair joined a group scuba-diving trip off the coast of Australia.

Tragically, their boat returned to shore without them, leaving them stranded far out at sea. The Lonergans were never found and are presumed to have died at sea, reports the Mirror.

Helmed by director Chris Kentis, Open Water features Blanchard Ryan and Daniel Travis in the lead roles of Susan and Daniel.

While it didn't match the monumental success of Jaws, the thriller still managed to secure a respectable 71 per cent rating from Rotten Tomatoes critics. However, audience ratings were less favourable, with the film receiving a disappointing 33 per cent score.

Despite this, many viewers have posted positive reviews. "The best shark movie since Jaws," exclaimed an enthusiastic fan.

"A constant nail biter. There's no boat, no Roy Schneider to blow up the shark, and no catch phrases. Just two people stuck in the middle of the ocean...surrounded by sharks."

Another admirer concurred with the sentiment, stating: "There are lot of 'Post Jaws' movies that are SO pale but 'Open Water' is definitely not one of them."

One viewer was particularly moved, declaring: "This film is the true definition of a HORROR film as the situation these people find themselves in is the absolute last thing I would ever want to experience, and the filmmakers do a great job keeping the tension taut throughout."

The same enthusiast further hailed Open Water as "the scariest shark film since Jaws!" In a similar vein, another confessed: "This is the most terrifying movie I have seen in my life."

Open Water is streaming for free on ITVX and Pluto TV. It is also available to purchase on Prime Video, Apple TV and Sky Store.