68 reviews
For what appears to be a decent-sized budget, this move is bad. Now I can almost pick out movies where the script was written by AI, this is one of them.
Good Acting: The acting was overall decent. The daughter and father was a little over the top but over all the actors was able to display the range of emotions effectively.
Bad Writing: No real dialogue, one sentence statement jammed together. ALSO, this is not a disaster movie, this is a family drama movie that has a disaster in it.
Plot Devices: I stopped counting after 15. Everyone or everything happened just in time for the maximum dramatic effect. I have trouble finding people in my house, yet entire family find each other from different parts of the city 10+ times.....without the aid of cell phones.
Mica: Have a drink for each time someone says 'Mica' or Simon' and you will die from alcohol poisoning. So many times an entire scene is a different person screaming 'Mica'.
Good Acting: The acting was overall decent. The daughter and father was a little over the top but over all the actors was able to display the range of emotions effectively.
Bad Writing: No real dialogue, one sentence statement jammed together. ALSO, this is not a disaster movie, this is a family drama movie that has a disaster in it.
Plot Devices: I stopped counting after 15. Everyone or everything happened just in time for the maximum dramatic effect. I have trouble finding people in my house, yet entire family find each other from different parts of the city 10+ times.....without the aid of cell phones.
Mica: Have a drink for each time someone says 'Mica' or Simon' and you will die from alcohol poisoning. So many times an entire scene is a different person screaming 'Mica'.
- tolss-07132
- Jan 16, 2024
- Permalink
- terrisirig
- Feb 17, 2024
- Permalink
It worked for an entertaining evening despite the low rating on this website. The undergrounds of Sweden's town Kiruna are mysterious. If you like disaster movies of this genre you can expect a worth seeing low budget action thriller. The executed dramatic scenes are not coming cheesy here an looked really great. There are some flaws but if you can ignore it is okay.
It was never boring and quite fast paced with the dramatical countdown. The actors delivered all good performances. Don't hesitate.to watch the other disaster Hollywood blockbuster San Andrea.or the.series Chernobyl.
I give a vote of 6/10.
It was never boring and quite fast paced with the dramatical countdown. The actors delivered all good performances. Don't hesitate.to watch the other disaster Hollywood blockbuster San Andrea.or the.series Chernobyl.
I give a vote of 6/10.
- Luigi Di Pilla
- Feb 20, 2024
- Permalink
- trufflelots
- Feb 17, 2024
- Permalink
- maruma-11175
- Feb 25, 2024
- Permalink
"Oh no! We're in a dangerous situation and could die at any moment. What do we do?"
"This is the perfect time to have a long talk about our relationship!"
Rinse, and repeat... rinse... and repeat.
Half way through I was wishing for everyone to fall into the abyss. It just wasn't convincing at all. The characters were just too bland and predictable. There was more relationship drama than actual disaster drama, which was made even more awkward by the fact they all seem so disconnected from each other. None of these people were likeable or remotely interesting. I kept waiting for something exciting to happen, but it never came.
Just simply ... boring.
Rinse, and repeat... rinse... and repeat.
Half way through I was wishing for everyone to fall into the abyss. It just wasn't convincing at all. The characters were just too bland and predictable. There was more relationship drama than actual disaster drama, which was made even more awkward by the fact they all seem so disconnected from each other. None of these people were likeable or remotely interesting. I kept waiting for something exciting to happen, but it never came.
Just simply ... boring.
- madartists
- Feb 23, 2024
- Permalink
I will say first off a lot of these films on netflix are not the best. The dubbing at least is not great and the films lack something. In the case of abyss though it was alright. This movie is about a woman named friga who works security at a local mine in Sweden. She has an ex and a new man and like they sometimes do. They also have a daughter that's an eco terrorist. The family dynamic here is a messed one and they never really feel like a family. Anyway they know it's not safe the twon being there as it can collapse at anytime. I liked how they did that and the effects were all good and it was well put together. The script was not great and the acting from some was not the best either. But overall the abyss was pretty decent.
- LetsReviewThat26
- Feb 19, 2024
- Permalink
- mmartic-21937
- Feb 20, 2024
- Permalink
Im not big on thrillers nor a critic and this is the first swedish film ive seen but it reallly kept me intrigued and had several moments where it struck me and surprised me with what it had to give. Yes the dialogue couldve been elevated somewhat but when watching with subtitles it already flowed fast enough without any extra cheese. If you are lloooking for a film that can be an easy watch while also having some real world strory the actors really do make great work of the dialogue given to them and the cgi aint to bad either. Good song choice aswell. Would recommend 100 percent as it stands out from the crowd.
- dylanmcd-98495
- Sep 12, 2024
- Permalink
In the 2023 cinematic venture "The Abyss," audiences are treated to an evocative exploration of life in and around a Swedish mining community. This film, distinct in its portrayal of everyday existence, intertwines the lives of its characters with the looming threats of collapse, earthquakes, and disaster.
What makes "The Abyss" stand out is its grounded approach to storytelling, offering a slice-of-life narrative enriched with relational dynamics, tension, and a sprinkling of mixed emotions. The movie's strength lies in its ability to maintain suspense. While the ending might not surprise many, it's the journey there-fraught with realistic challenges and decisions-that grips the viewer.
This element of realism sets it apart from other disaster films, rendering "The Abyss" akin to a mini-epic of catastrophe, reminiscent of the localized dramas seen in the 2012 film genre, but with a more realistic and human touch. The film is a commendable addition to Swedish cinema, marked by its realistic portrayal of both personal and communal crises. Its narrative is a testament to human resilience amidst external calamities and internal struggles, all while keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.
Despite its predictable conclusion, the film's journey is compelling, offering a rich tapestry of life that balances the mundane with the catastrophic."The Abyss" may not cater to the tastes of those accustomed to the spectacle of Hollywood blockbusters. Its charm lies in its unassuming delivery and the subtle complexities of life it chooses to explore. It stands as a sterling example of European filmmaking, particularly shining a light on the Swedish film industry's capability to produce thought-provoking and emotionally resonant narratives. For aficionados of European cinema and those seeking a film that delves into the essence of human existence against the backdrop of looming disaster, "The Abyss" is a must-watch. Its realistic approach, coupled with a keen observation of life's intricacies, makes for a compelling viewing experience that transcends the conventional disaster movie mold.
What makes "The Abyss" stand out is its grounded approach to storytelling, offering a slice-of-life narrative enriched with relational dynamics, tension, and a sprinkling of mixed emotions. The movie's strength lies in its ability to maintain suspense. While the ending might not surprise many, it's the journey there-fraught with realistic challenges and decisions-that grips the viewer.
This element of realism sets it apart from other disaster films, rendering "The Abyss" akin to a mini-epic of catastrophe, reminiscent of the localized dramas seen in the 2012 film genre, but with a more realistic and human touch. The film is a commendable addition to Swedish cinema, marked by its realistic portrayal of both personal and communal crises. Its narrative is a testament to human resilience amidst external calamities and internal struggles, all while keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.
Despite its predictable conclusion, the film's journey is compelling, offering a rich tapestry of life that balances the mundane with the catastrophic."The Abyss" may not cater to the tastes of those accustomed to the spectacle of Hollywood blockbusters. Its charm lies in its unassuming delivery and the subtle complexities of life it chooses to explore. It stands as a sterling example of European filmmaking, particularly shining a light on the Swedish film industry's capability to produce thought-provoking and emotionally resonant narratives. For aficionados of European cinema and those seeking a film that delves into the essence of human existence against the backdrop of looming disaster, "The Abyss" is a must-watch. Its realistic approach, coupled with a keen observation of life's intricacies, makes for a compelling viewing experience that transcends the conventional disaster movie mold.
- andrejsboka
- Feb 23, 2024
- Permalink
"Avgrunden" falls short by focusing too heavily on family drama, sidelining the intriguing Kiruna mine story it promised. Instead of exploring the mine's societal and environmental impacts, the film gets bogged down in melodramatic family conflicts. This shift not only disappoints but misleads audiences, wasting the unique setting of Kiruna. The film tries to juggle too much, failing to deliver a compelling narrative on either front. It misses the chance to delve into the complexities of mining life, leaving viewers with a generic and unsatisfying family saga.
Dont waste your time like i did..
Dont waste your time like i did..
I found the characters to be relatable and admirable despite their failings or maybe because of their struggles with their failings.
Suspenseful and I didn't find it predictable. There was no feeling that there would be some miraculous rescue for everyone at the end. I felt truly afraid for the characters because I was invested in them and their reactions felt true.
Frigga's stoic strength when others were losing their minds is something I'd love to see in more female leads.
The low-key ominous signs of collapse, like the slow turning of the lamppost in the rift zone were utterly chilling.
Funny at times. The wry humor shown at awkward moments was engaging.
Suspenseful and I didn't find it predictable. There was no feeling that there would be some miraculous rescue for everyone at the end. I felt truly afraid for the characters because I was invested in them and their reactions felt true.
Frigga's stoic strength when others were losing their minds is something I'd love to see in more female leads.
The low-key ominous signs of collapse, like the slow turning of the lamppost in the rift zone were utterly chilling.
Funny at times. The wry humor shown at awkward moments was engaging.
We have seen all of this before over the years but with better actors and better scripts (and better effects to be honest)
Classic movies like Twister, Dante's peak, Volcano and Day after tomorrow.
But even new movies like Greenland, Deepawater horizon, San andreas fault and 2012 are way better and enjoyable than this.
As usual SVT is relentlessly using their form A making sure the women are strong, the men weak, the daughter dating a girl and the protagonist replacing the husband with a man from the middle east.
While each of those on their own could have worked they instead decide to go all in and the story suffers from it.
Tuva Novotny is trying hard but the rest of the cast is lacking and some are extremely poor.
It could be that the bad script are making them look worse than they are though.
I found the fact that they are moving an entire city fascinating and would actually prefer watching a movie/documentary about that instead.
Its sad but id rather rewatch the older movies i mentioned above than endure movies like this.
But even new movies like Greenland, Deepawater horizon, San andreas fault and 2012 are way better and enjoyable than this.
As usual SVT is relentlessly using their form A making sure the women are strong, the men weak, the daughter dating a girl and the protagonist replacing the husband with a man from the middle east.
While each of those on their own could have worked they instead decide to go all in and the story suffers from it.
Tuva Novotny is trying hard but the rest of the cast is lacking and some are extremely poor.
It could be that the bad script are making them look worse than they are though.
I found the fact that they are moving an entire city fascinating and would actually prefer watching a movie/documentary about that instead.
Its sad but id rather rewatch the older movies i mentioned above than endure movies like this.
- epost-20607
- Feb 16, 2024
- Permalink
Yes, it's an okay budget, and yes it's Swedish. But why do people compare against Hollywood films? There is more to life than Hollywood! The effects and the acting are not bad, the thing that let it down is the 'English' dubbed version is in American English. With which European languages do not translate correctly into American English. It's totally dubbed for the American market, yet it fails for the rest of the world. As a native British English speaker, I find it annoying with 'Americanisms' that are used where else in the world they are not!
I re watched it in Swedish with English American subtitles. Much much better! Give it a go in its native language!
I re watched it in Swedish with English American subtitles. Much much better! Give it a go in its native language!
- colinkhenry
- Apr 12, 2024
- Permalink
The Abyss (2023) is an ambitious attempt at blending sci-fi and psychological thriller elements, but it doesn't quite achieve the emotional or narrative depth it aims for. The film stands out for its stunning visuals, particularly in its depiction of the vast and mysterious underwater world. The sound design also deserves credit, effectively building tension and immersing the audience in the film's claustrophobic setting.
Where the movie falters is in its pacing and character development. The story starts strong with an intriguing premise, but as it progresses, it becomes increasingly disjointed. The film attempts to juggle too many themes-survival, environmental commentary, and existential dread-without fully exploring any of them. This lack of focus makes the plot feel both overstuffed and shallow.
The cast delivers solid performances, but the script doesn't give them much to work with. Key moments meant to provide emotional impact often fall flat due to underdeveloped relationships between characters. By the end, the resolution feels rushed and unsatisfying, leaving many unanswered questions.
While The Abyss (2023) is visually impressive and has moments of genuine tension, it ultimately lacks the narrative cohesion and emotional weight needed to make it memorable. A decent watch for fans of atmospheric thrillers, but it doesn't leave a lasting impression.
Where the movie falters is in its pacing and character development. The story starts strong with an intriguing premise, but as it progresses, it becomes increasingly disjointed. The film attempts to juggle too many themes-survival, environmental commentary, and existential dread-without fully exploring any of them. This lack of focus makes the plot feel both overstuffed and shallow.
The cast delivers solid performances, but the script doesn't give them much to work with. Key moments meant to provide emotional impact often fall flat due to underdeveloped relationships between characters. By the end, the resolution feels rushed and unsatisfying, leaving many unanswered questions.
While The Abyss (2023) is visually impressive and has moments of genuine tension, it ultimately lacks the narrative cohesion and emotional weight needed to make it memorable. A decent watch for fans of atmospheric thrillers, but it doesn't leave a lasting impression.
- Bmore-Hero
- Dec 14, 2024
- Permalink
- loader1810
- Mar 3, 2024
- Permalink
Most Swedes are probably aware that the entire city of Kiruna in northern Sweden town has been been moved (and is still in the process of being moved) due to the LKAB mine expanding and the risk of cave ins are therefore substantial.
...or something along those lines.
This well-made and fantastically exciting Swedish disaster movie paints a scenario in which the impending collapse becomes fact.
Frigga (Tuva Novotny) is in charge of safety in the mine, and she tries to balance the relationship she has with her demanding job with the relationship she has with her two children and her ex-husband (David Franzén), and now also her new boyfriend (Kardo Razzazi) - who have just come up from Uppsala to surprise her in Kiruna, right on time for when everything starts going to hell.
Avgrunden certainly lives up to all the usual disaster movie standards: From a slow build of tension, to the total disaster - and everything in between.
It has characters with history, and whose personal lives you actually invest in - and to keep the tension high, the movie doesn't shy away from sacrificing a few of them.
But even if it is "standard", it is GOOD standard!
The scenes in the mine are claustrophobic on an unexpectedly high level, and the "crawling through the narrow passage" sequence in particular left me short of breath!
The chaos out on the street lacks those real mammoth proportions, but for a Swedish movie it was still impressive!
The last bit felt a little drawn out, and I would have preferred to instead see it woven into a longer disaster sequence, with the big collapse as the climax.
Richard Holm directs, and he has also written the screenplay together with his son Robin Holm aswell as Nicola Sinclair.
I have a difficult relationship with Swedish cinema, so I always get extra happy when a movie made in my home country surprises me, and this was 105 unexpectedly thrilling minutes in the movie theater!
...or something along those lines.
This well-made and fantastically exciting Swedish disaster movie paints a scenario in which the impending collapse becomes fact.
Frigga (Tuva Novotny) is in charge of safety in the mine, and she tries to balance the relationship she has with her demanding job with the relationship she has with her two children and her ex-husband (David Franzén), and now also her new boyfriend (Kardo Razzazi) - who have just come up from Uppsala to surprise her in Kiruna, right on time for when everything starts going to hell.
Avgrunden certainly lives up to all the usual disaster movie standards: From a slow build of tension, to the total disaster - and everything in between.
It has characters with history, and whose personal lives you actually invest in - and to keep the tension high, the movie doesn't shy away from sacrificing a few of them.
But even if it is "standard", it is GOOD standard!
The scenes in the mine are claustrophobic on an unexpectedly high level, and the "crawling through the narrow passage" sequence in particular left me short of breath!
The chaos out on the street lacks those real mammoth proportions, but for a Swedish movie it was still impressive!
The last bit felt a little drawn out, and I would have preferred to instead see it woven into a longer disaster sequence, with the big collapse as the climax.
Richard Holm directs, and he has also written the screenplay together with his son Robin Holm aswell as Nicola Sinclair.
I have a difficult relationship with Swedish cinema, so I always get extra happy when a movie made in my home country surprises me, and this was 105 unexpectedly thrilling minutes in the movie theater!
- mickekarlsson1974
- Sep 14, 2023
- Permalink
This movie had potentially been really good if it wasn't a lot of family drama in it.
The bad language between young teenagers in the movie gives a bad message to viewers to.
It had some thrilling moments but nothing more.
This was a bad attempt to replicate other disaster movies.
I am sorry to say but I can't recommend this film at all.
There are better ways to spend money on theatre this days.
It pains me to see good actors in a bad picture.
I love Tuva and she has great potential if she only get the chance.
To summarize this movie I have to say that it lacked depth and it was quite messy.
The bad language between young teenagers in the movie gives a bad message to viewers to.
It had some thrilling moments but nothing more.
This was a bad attempt to replicate other disaster movies.
I am sorry to say but I can't recommend this film at all.
There are better ways to spend money on theatre this days.
It pains me to see good actors in a bad picture.
I love Tuva and she has great potential if she only get the chance.
To summarize this movie I have to say that it lacked depth and it was quite messy.
- realbatman
- Sep 15, 2023
- Permalink
Plays out like it was written by a high school film student and their grandparents. Whoever wrote this needs to go back to school and find some creativity. Don't waste your hard earned money on this. It's a shame because the actors are good and the area it takes place in is historically interesting. But really none of the areas history is really explored and it may as well served as a green screen background with a b-grade story slapped on top of it. Useless romances and agrevated relations, poor CGI that looks like it came straight out of the 90s. This was meant to be one of Swedens big budget movies of the year. What a waste.
- MacNorrland
- Sep 17, 2023
- Permalink
Horrible acting and writing, making me cringe throughout the entire movie... I was hoping that it would get better and never did, only worse. Too many scenes where everyone just stares at the cracks opening up and does nothing. Too many scenes of people walking really slowly in dangerous situations where they should be running for their lives. Really awkward scenes where people have small talks and heart-to-hearts while in situations that require immediate action when people are dying. Common sense is nonexistent in this movie. Don't waste your time like I did, I wish I could wipe it from my memory it was so bad! This is the kind of movie that leaves you mad at the end of it for being absolutely horrible for the entire movie.
I really was excited to hear about this movie, both as it's the first ever Swedish catastrophe movie, but also that it takes place in the unique town of beautiful Kiruna.
The film is based on an actual possible event. The town of Kiruna is in the process of being moved three kilometers away from where it's situated today due to that the substantial mining underneath is leading to the town's sinking. And moving a town with 23.000 inhabitants is a huge task.
I also had great hopes as I heard talented Tuva Novotny was the lead actress, as an actor always doing well.
The plot is that Novotny's character is in charge of safety in the mines, when the ground it starting to falter around them.
But disappointment was huge both to see silly instructing, bad acting (if not from Novotny) and cliché after cliché, and rather stupid action.
I'm afraid to say that the story is not at all exciting, and even worse, it's boring.
I take it that the Swedes are inspired by the many great catastrope movies coming out of Norway since 2011 (The Wave, The Quake, The Tunnel, The Burning Sea, Troll, People in the sun, Pioneer, etc) but this is not reaching up to any of them.
The film is based on an actual possible event. The town of Kiruna is in the process of being moved three kilometers away from where it's situated today due to that the substantial mining underneath is leading to the town's sinking. And moving a town with 23.000 inhabitants is a huge task.
I also had great hopes as I heard talented Tuva Novotny was the lead actress, as an actor always doing well.
The plot is that Novotny's character is in charge of safety in the mines, when the ground it starting to falter around them.
But disappointment was huge both to see silly instructing, bad acting (if not from Novotny) and cliché after cliché, and rather stupid action.
I'm afraid to say that the story is not at all exciting, and even worse, it's boring.
I take it that the Swedes are inspired by the many great catastrope movies coming out of Norway since 2011 (The Wave, The Quake, The Tunnel, The Burning Sea, Troll, People in the sun, Pioneer, etc) but this is not reaching up to any of them.