7 Ways The Meg Was Much Better Than You Expected

Yes, CGI is at almost photorealistic levels these days, but it was still a nice surprise to see this B-movie do it so well. Not only does it look cool, they use it just the right amount. Some close-ups, some long shots, and some fear inducing scenes with no shark at all. Just shadows, ripples, and music.

Spielberg’s Jaws is still the go-to shark movie. For all The Meg’s good points, it hasn’t quite won that crown. But way back in 1975, there were a lot of difficulties getting the shark to be effectively frightening on screen. Spielberg managed this problem effectively, but Jaws sequels didn’t handle their shortcomings quite so well.

The Meg though may very well be the blueprint for monster movies to come. We see hints and flashes of its power all through the first half, but never really see the shark itself. Even as we move from the darkness of the deep, all we’re given is the mighty tail, the huge sharp teeth.

With the plot stressing the significance of the creature’s size so much, director John Turteltaub plays it cool. In avoiding the temptation to reveal his hand early, the movie sets up a wonderfully tense finale.