The Bermuda Depths

It may be set in Bermuda but it's really about a love triangle. Between a boy, a seafish woman monster, and their naively adopted wayward turtle. The miniatures are quite winning in an adorably goofy way. I will most definitely be showing a few of the scenes to my son. Carl Weathers is always a joy to watch but the lead is more wooden than an Amish barn. I actively disliked the music score.

I paid money for this because I'd read it was visually unusual (& w/ the Rankin/Bass credit, I assumed it must be) & because Connie Sellecca was starring. Sellecca was certainly stunning, but visually unusual? Maybe in the sense that there are obvious toy models substituting for boats & copters, but what's most unusual is its hybrid nature: half Jaws ripoff/half fairy tale. It's also bad: glacially paced w/ a hero who ALWAYS looks troubled/angry & is loved by a magical being for no good reason.

The earnest, mournful romance at the center of the film is almost enough to overcome the cheesy special effects and long dull patches. That being said, there are some really great shots and some delicate, fine acting within. Also: a giant mutant flying sea turtle.

"Let's rip-off Jaws as a ghost story with a turtle!" The basic concept, 'ghost girl cursed to sea beast' is good but this has no teeth. The lead is entirely unlikable and sinks the whole cast. Screenplay is also garbage. Skip it.