“Black Water” is a 2007 Australian survival thriller film directed by Andrew Traucki and David Nerlich. The movie stars Diana Glenn, Maeve Dermody, and Andy Rodoreda in lead roles. Released on July 4, 2007, the film is based on a true story and is set in the remote mangrove swamps of Northern Australia. It is a tense, minimalist thriller that pits its characters against a ᴅᴇᴀᴅly saltwater crocodile in a fight for survival.
The story follows Grace (Diana Glenn), her boyfriend Adam (Andy Rodoreda), and her younger sister Lee (Maeve Dermody) as they embark on a fishing trip in the mangroves. Guided by a local boatman, Jim, their peaceful outing takes a horrifying turn when their boat is capsized by a mᴀssive crocodile. Jim is killed in the attack, leaving the three stranded in the middle of the swamp. With no way to call for help and the crocodile lurking nearby, the group climbs into the branches of a tree to stay out of the water.
As the hours pᴀss, tensions rise, and the group is forced to make desperate decisions to survive. Adam attempts to retrieve the capsized boat but is attacked and killed by the crocodile. Grace and Lee, now alone, must summon their courage to outwit the predator. In a harrowing climax, Grace confronts the crocodile head-on, managing to kill it and escape with her sister.
“Black Water” received critical acclaim for its realistic portrayal of survival and its use of practical effects, including real crocodile footage. The film’s minimalist approach, focusing on the characters’ psychological and physical struggles, was praised for creating an atmosphere of relentless tension. Diana Glenn and Maeve Dermody delivered standout performances, capturing the fear and determination of their characters.
Despite its modest budget, “Black Water” became a sleeper hit, earning a cult following among fans of survival horror. Its success led to a spiritual sequel, Black Water: Abyss (2020), further cementing its place as one of the most gripping crocodile survival films in cinema history.