Dark Water
Performance & Direction: Dark Water Review
Last updated: February 16, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Dark Water (2005) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.7/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Horror.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Horror is often anchored by its ensemble, and Dark Water features a noteworthy lineup led by Jennifer Connelly . Supported by the likes of John C. Reilly and Tim Roth , the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
Story & Plot Summary: Dark Water
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2005, Dark Water is a Horror, Mystery film directed by Walter Salles. The narrative crafts an atmosphere of dread and suspense, using psychological terror and visual scares. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Jennifer Connelly.
Story Breakdown
The horror unfolds through carefully crafted atmosphere and escalating dread. Dahlia and her five-year-old daughter are ready to begin a new life together. But their new apartment — dilapidated and worn — suddenly seems to take on a life of its own. Mysterious noises, persistent leaks of dark water and other strange happenings send Dahlia on a haunting and mystifying pursuit — one that unleashes a torrent of living nightmares. Director Walter Salles uses both psychological terror and visceral scares, building tension through what's unseen as much as what's shown. The pacing allows for breathing room between scares, making each frightening moment more effective.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: An unsettling prologue sets the ominous tone, hinting at the terror to come while establishing the rules of this world.
- Character Arc: Character development is present but somewhat formulaic, following familiar patterns without adding fresh perspectives to the genre.
- Climax & Resolution: The final act escalates the terror to its peak, forcing characters to confront the source of horror directly.
Ending Explained: Dark Water
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Walter Salles, Dark Water attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to horror resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Jennifer Connelly, offering viewers material for post-viewing discussion.
Ending Analysis:
- Narrative Resolution: The story concludes by addressing its primary narrative threads, providing closure while maintaining some ambiguity.
- Character Arcs: Character journeys reach their narrative endpoints, reflecting the film's thematic priorities.
- Thematic Payoff: The ending reinforces the horror themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Dark Water reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Dark Water?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Horror films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Box Office Collection: Dark Water
| Metric / Region | Collection (Approx) |
|---|---|
| Production Budget | $30.0M |
| Worldwide Gross | $68.4M |
| Trade Verdict | FINANCIAL DISAPPOINTMENT |
Dark Water Budget
The estimated production budget for Dark Water is $30.0M. This figure covers principal photography, talent acquisitions, and visual effects. When accounting for global marketing and distribution, the break-even point is typically 2x the base production cost.
Top Cast: Dark Water
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Where to Watch Dark Water Online?
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Fandango At HomeDark Water Parents Guide & Age Rating
2005 AdvisoryWondering about Dark Water age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Dark Water is 105 minutes (1h 45m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.7/10, and global performance metrics, Dark Water is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2005 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dark Water worth watching?
Dark Water is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Horror movies. It has a verified rating of 5.7/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Dark Water parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Dark Water identifies it as PG-13. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Dark Water?
The total duration of Dark Water is 105 minutes, which is approximately 1h 45m long.
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movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
