I usually don't pay any attention to the favorable quotes and exaggerated comparisons to classic films that are often conspicuously printed on DVD-covers, but in case of "Sea Fever" I read one that is fairly accurate. The box proudly exclaims that it's "Cabin Fever" meets "The Thing", and you know what? That description honestly isn't too far off. Obviously the two well-known films are still a lot better, especially "The Thing", but in terms of plot, type of horror monster, and atmosphere "Sea Fever" definitely plays in the same league.
When a deeply superstitious and financially struggling Irish fishermen crew heads into a forbidden zone for fishing, a strange creature suddenly attaches itself to their boat and leaves behind a strange substance. Before the timid and introvert biology student Siobhán can run a proper analysis, crew members are falling ill, and tension aboard starts rising. "Sea Fever" is not a very fast-paced or highly spectacular horror/thriller, but benefices greatly from its thoroughly grim and uncanny atmosphere. The cheap and ramshackle looking fishing boat, in combination with the sober casting and genuine Irish accents, also gives the film a very authentic and persuasive look and feel. The gorgeous Hermione Corfield is excellent as the student outcast amidst a group of diehard fishermen (and fisherwomen!), and writer/director Nessa Hardiman makes very good use of the claustrophobic locations and suffocating ambiance. Of course, I also hoped for the film to contain a bit more action and blood/gore, and the ending is a too bleak and more dramatic than necessary. Nonetheless, a worthwhile film to check out.
