Nine Miles Down Review

Written by: Chrizzy   

On the surface, Nine Miles Down is a take on the drilling-to-hell theme, started by the urban legend of just such an event occurring in Siberia. Below the surface, it's a lot more complex, and intelligent, than that.

One of the first things I noticed was the artistic, and often stunning, cinematography. It's been a while since I've come across a director who knows how to move a camera and set up a shot like Anthony Waller. Set mainly in the Sahara Desert, Waller has plenty of opportunity to use the landscape to his advantage, and he does so often. From the blinding sand storm that opens the film to striking panoramic shots of the setting sun, it would be paradise if it weren't, in fact, hell on earth.

As for the effects, they were used only when needed, and, as far as I could tell, were all practical, not to mention very well done. Third, and most importantly, Nine Miles Down was a journey from beginning to end. I love movies that make me think and force me to pay attention to every detail in order to know what's really going on. Haute Tension did that. So does this. In fact, by the end, I felt my mind going as much in circles as the main character's. Trying to discern between reality and delusion...it was quite the trip. A lot of people have complained that the end feels too long. I don't agree. It might feel that way if you're not paying attention, but, for someone caught up in the insanity, the end is merely another ride, leading to a very fitting (and non-Hollywood) conclusion.

I only had one issue. The acting at the beginning from everyone but the lead was lacking a bit. However, it did get better as things got going. The movie isn't perfect, but it's a HELL of a lot better than much of modern Hollywood "horror". For being intelligent, and for daring to be different, Nine Miles Down deserves to not only be seen, but seen again. And don't bother keeping a cross nearby. It won't help.