Review: Bait (2012)
A thrilling mix of disaster and horror, Bait (2012) delivers a unique premise: a group of strangers trapped in a flooded supermarket with a hungry great white shark. Directed by Kimble Rendall, this Australian-Singaporean production blends survival horror with action-packed sequences, creating an entertaining yet over-the-top experience.
Plot and Atmosphere
After a tsunami strikes a coastal town, survivors find themselves stranded inside a submerged grocery store. However, the rising water isn’t the only threat—two massive great white sharks are lurking, turning the flooded aisles into a deadly hunting ground. With limited resources and no easy escape, the group must outsmart the predators while dealing with personal conflicts and the increasing danger around them.
Action and Effects
The film delivers some intense shark attack sequences, though the CGI is inconsistent, ranging from decent to unconvincing. The use of an indoor setting adds claustrophobia and tension, making the environment just as dangerous as the sharks themselves. While some of the horror elements are effective, the film occasionally leans into cheesy dialogue and predictable character arcs.
Cast and Performances
The ensemble cast, including Xavier Samuel, Julian McMahon, and Sharni Vinson, delivers solid performances despite a script filled with clichés. The characters follow typical survival-horror archetypes, but their interactions keep the story engaging.
Final Thoughts
Bait (2012) is a fun, action-packed creature feature that doesn’t take itself too seriously. While the CGI sharks and some of the dialogue might not be the best, the film still provides plenty of suspense and thrills for fans of shark attack movies.
⭐ Rating: 6.5/10 – A fun, ridiculous, and entertaining shark thriller.