When it comes to naming the best shark movies, there’s no denying the iconic status of Steven Spielberg’s Jaws. But if you’ve already watched the adventures of Chief Brody and his toothy nemesis countless times, it’s time to dive into some fin-tastic alternatives.
From deep-sea terror to B-movie brilliance, we’ve compiled a list of 10 best shark movies that will keep you on the edge of your seat. So grab your chum bucket, hold onto your limbs, and let’s explore the depths of these toothy tales!
Deep Blue Sea (1999)
Who needs a bigger boat when you can have genetically enhanced sharks? This thrilling and surprisingly intelligent flick takes you to an underwater research facility where a group of scientists, including Samuel L. Jackson, battle super-smart sharks with an appetite for chaos.
Shark Night 3-D (2011)
Get ready for a wild ride as a group of friends head to a remote lake for a weekend getaway, only to find themselves hunted by deadly sharks. With plenty of jumps, thrills, and a dash of 3-D fun, this film delivers some toothy terror.
Open Water (2003)
Based on a true story, this minimalist horror film follows a couple left stranded in shark-infested waters after a scuba diving trip gone wrong. With its realistic approach and chilling atmosphere, Open Water will make you think twice about venturing too far from the shore.
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The Meg (2018)
If you’re looking for big-budget monster fun, then The Meg is your catch of the day. Jason Statham battles a prehistoric megalodon that makes all other sharks seem like minnows. Brace yourself for over-the-top action and jaw-dropping thrills as this one is easily among the best shark movies.
47 Meters Down (2017)
Diving enthusiasts beware! Two sisters find themselves trapped in a shark cage at the bottom of the ocean, surrounded by hungry sharks. With limited oxygen and their worst nightmares coming true, they must fight to survive in this intense and claustrophobic thriller.
Bait (2012)
In this Australian gem, a group of people gets trapped in a flooded supermarket after a tsunami hits. As if surviving the disaster isn’t challenging enough, they soon discover they’re not alone—the store is now teeming with ravenous great white sharks. Talk about a shopping spree gone wrong!
The Reef (2010)
Prepare for a nerve-wracking journey across the open sea in this survival horror film. When a group of friends’ sailboat capsizes, they must swim to a nearby island, but lurking beneath the surface is a relentless great white shark. The Reef will make you think twice before dipping your toes in the water.
Sharknado (2013)
Okay, hear us out. Sharknado may be the epitome of so-bad-it’s-good, but it’s also ridiculously entertaining. When a freak hurricane hits Los Angeles, it unleashes a torrent of man-eating sharks. It’s a whirlwind of absurdity and over-the-top shark-themed chaos that you won’t want to miss.
47 Meters Down: Uncaged (2019)
Dive into a thrilling underwater adventure as four friends explore an ancient Mayan city submerged in deep waters. But their excitement turns into a fight for survival when they encounter a swarm of deadly sharks. Prepare for heart-pounding suspense and breathtaking underwater visuals.
The Shallows (2016)
In this gripping survival thriller, Blake Lively stars as a surfer trapped on a small rock while a great white shark circles nearby. As tension mounts, you’ll find yourself rooting for her to outsmart one of the ocean’s most fearsome predators. This gem swims easily among the best shark movies of all time.
While Jaws will always be the ultimate shark movie, there’s a whole ocean of other films waiting to give you the chills. From thrilling survival stories to outrageous B-movie fun, these 10 must-watch shark movies offer a toothy alternative to the classic Spielberg masterpiece. So pick a flick, get cozy, and prepare for a deep dive into the mesmerizing and terrifying world of shark cinema!
What do you think is the best shark movie out there? Tweet at us or start a conversation in the Nightmare on Film Street Discord! (it’s where all the cool kids hang out)
