10 Films You Didn't Realise Were Gigantic Successes
2. Open Water (2004)
If the above trailer for Open Water were to find itself on a cinema screen in 2019, you'd probably be left scratching your head, whilst wondering whether what you'd just seen was a parody or an elaborate prank.
However in 2003, Open Water incredibly managed to lure people into the shark-infested environment that was the middle of the ocean (off the back of this 'B-movie' level marketing) and the film itself was actually fairly well received by critics and fans alike.
Based on a true story, the film first appeared at Sundance before making a splash in cinemas around the world. Praised for its 'visceral feeling' and minimalistic approach, the picture - which cost a petite $100,000 to capture on film - eventually reeled in a massive $55.5 million at the box office.
The subsequent follow-ups may have tarnished whatever credibility this terrifying survival thriller had originally conjured up. But, Open Water should always be regarded as an example of what level of success can be achieved on a low budget, when you have a decent premise to work with...regardless of how wretched the trailers made the concept appear at first.