I was disappointed by The Deep Blue Sea. This is particularly hearbreaking since it comes from renowned British director Terence Davies, the master behind achievements like Distant Voices, Still Lives and The Long Day Closes.

There were definitely things to admire here like the beautiful cinematography, the frequent use of ellipsis in the editing and the smoothly fluid camerawork. However, the film ultimately relied on the lead actress and her chemistry with her lover. Unfortunately, Rachel Weisz could not handle the gravity that the role required. I was expecting acting at the level of Hannah Schygulla in The Marriage of Maria Braun or Julianne Moore in Far From Heaven, but I was only given something pedestrian. Also, the chemistry and sexual tension between her and Tom Hiddleston was not palpable (or even non-existent). I only felt the electricity during a well-shot sex scene but that was when Davies intentionally left out their faces! Simon Russell Beale was top-notch in here and was best in show in his limited screentime as the husband. He was the only one convincing in this supposedly tragic and devastating tale of unrequited love.

The Deep Blue Sea definitely has unrealized potential. It felt like an old antique gathering dust in the attic that was beautiful to look at but best left there. I expect a better work next time, Mr. Davies!