9 Horror Movie Victims Who Gave Up... And Survived
2. Bud Brigman - The Abyss
In The Abyss, Bud Brigman leads a SEAL team (including his ex-wife, Lindsey) to locate a lost nuclear submarine. But during their mission, Bud's team come into contact with a water-controlling NTI (non-terrestrial intelligence), which is what caused the submarine to get lost in the first place.
When the SEAL team discover the sub's nukes are set to detonate, Bud puts on a diver's suit, makes his way towards the vessel, and dismantles it. When Lindsey realise Bud has barely any oxygen left, she urges him to rush back.
Instead of panicking, Bud knew he wouldn't have enough air to make his way back, telling Lindsey his mission was a "One Way Ticket". After saying goodbye, Bud turns off his communicator, and waits for his oxygen tank to deplete.
Suddenly, the NTI that the SEAL team met earlier appears, and brings Bud to a submerged city, where he's able to breathe. The NTI explains that his species had grown so tired of humanity's wars, they were preparing to drown the whole world. But upon noticing Bud was willing to sacrifice himself for the greater good, the NTIs changed their mind.
Ironically, Bud's attempt to take his own life indirectly saved all of mankind.