Episode 50 : The Abyss

James Cameron’s THE ABYSS was a technological marvel in 1989. For many, the film remains a mystery, overshadowed by other Cameron films which reaped the benefits of THE ABYSS’ monumental achievements. Having nearly missed the late-1980s underwater movie wave, THE ABYSS played a massively integral part in Cameron’s career. For our 50th Episode, we’re diving into what made this nearly unimaginable film not only possible, but a feat still awe-inspiring 30 years later. Synopsis: A team of underwater oil rig workers are enlisted to seek out a sunken nuclear submarine. Battling weather problems from above and Navy Seals with an alternative mission, the civilian team discovers an alien species looking to make contact. Discussions include: Aspects of underwater filmmaking, including immense difficulties, dangers and unforeseen challenges; training and hardships faced by the cast and crew; Cameron’s perfectionism and methodical troubleshooting; newly invented technology/special effects; differences between the theatrical and extended cuts of the film; use of *real* underwater breathing liquid; Cameron’s personal influence on the script and use of purposeful sexism; what hindered the film’s release; our love of the cast and why this ambitious movie is so unrelentingly intense.**Starring Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Ed Harris, Michael Biehn. Directed by James Cameron.** **PICKS OF THE WEEK** —Lindsay’s Pick, ANACONDA (1997): A documentary film crew falls prey to an opportunistic, snake-hunting stranger, while being stalked by giant Amazonian anacondas. **Starring Jennifer Lopez, Ice Cube, Jon Voight, Owen Wilson. Directed by Luis Llosa.** —Justin’s Pick, STRANGE DAYS (1995): Before the dawn of a new millennium, this flashy, neo-noir thriller follows a shady Los Angeles ex-cop/grifter selling visions of the future and uncovering what dangers lay ahead. **Starring Juliette Lewis, Angela Bassett, Ralph Fiennes, Tom Sizemore. Directed by Kathryn Bigelow.** MURRAYMOMENT: Behind the scenes snippets of Billy’s time filming The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou. FINAL THOUGHTS: Marketing and reception of THE ABYSS, in relation to other underwater movies released around the same time. NEXT UP:LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, THE FABULOUS STAINS (1982)!