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)!
Episode 16 : Fright Night (1985)
Episode 15 : A Nightmare On Elm Street (1984)
Episode 14 : Serial Mom
Episode 13 : Pet Sematary
Episode 12 : Quick Change
Episode 11 part two : The Monster Squad (Interview w/ Andre Gower & Henry McComas)
Episode 11 part one : The Monster Squad
Episode 10 : Robocop (1987)
Episode 9 : Stand By Me
Episode 8 : Working Girl
Episode 7 : The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)
Episode 6 : Weird Science
Episode 5 : Predator (1987)
Episode 4 : Fatal Attraction
Episode 3 : Reality Bites
Episode 2 : The Lost Boys
Episode 1 : Ed Wood
Episode 0 : an introduction to Don’t Push Pause
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