Maneater
Performance & Direction: Maneater Review
Last updated: February 16, 2026
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Maneater (2022) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 4.5/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Mystery.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass
The success of any Mystery is often anchored by its ensemble, and Maneater features a noteworthy lineup led by Nicky Whelan . Supported by the likes of Trace Adkins and Jeff Fahey , 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: Maneater
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2022, Maneater is a Mystery, Thriller, Horror film directed by Justin Lee. The narrative presents a compelling narrative that engages viewers from start to finish. This summary provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Nicky Whelan.
Story Breakdown
The title presents its narrative with careful attention to pacing and character development. A group of friends on vacation in a seeming island paradise are stalked by an unrelenting great white after an accident leaves them stranded and left for dead. The story unfolds naturally, allowing viewers to become invested in the outcome while maintaining engagement throughout.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: The title establishes its world and central conflict efficiently in the opening act.
- Character Arc: Character development is present but somewhat formulaic, following familiar patterns without adding fresh perspectives to the genre.
- Climax & Resolution: The climax brings together the narrative threads, providing resolution while staying true to the established tone.
Ending Explained: Maneater
Ending Breakdown: Directed by Justin Lee, Maneater attempts to tie together its various plot elements. The finale presents its approach to mystery resolution.
The final reveal recontextualizes earlier scenes involving Nicky Whelan, 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 mystery themes established throughout the runtime.
The final moments of Maneater reflect the filmmakers' creative choices, offering an ending that aligns with the film's tone and style.
Who Should Watch Maneater?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Mystery films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
Top Cast: Maneater
All Cast & Crew →
Where to Watch Maneater Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
Lionsgate Play
VI movies and tv
Lionsgate Play Apple TV Channel
Lionsgate Play Amazon Channel🎟️ Rent on
Amazon VideoManeater Parents Guide & Age Rating
2022 AdvisoryWondering about Maneater age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Maneater is 86 minutes (1h 26m). Ensuring you have enough time for the full cinematic experience.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 4.5/10, and global performance metrics, Maneater is classified as a AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 2022 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Maneater worth watching?
Maneater is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Mystery movies. It has a verified rating of 4.5/10 and stands as a AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Maneater parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Maneater identifies it as R. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the total runtime of Maneater?
The total duration of Maneater is 86 minutes, which is approximately 1h 26m long.
Best Movies to Watch if you liked Maneater
How Maneater Compares & Where it Ranks
Critic Reviews for Maneater
**The ridiculous casting/directing choices make Maneater more confusing and unenjoyable. There are many other fish (or sharks) in the sea to watch over this one.** Even though Maneater was a streaming movie, it was every bit a TV movie from the 1990s as could be. The acting, music, editing, and CGI were all dreadful. The most mind-boggling thing about this film was the casting. The friends that fall prey to the crazed man-eating shark were clearly supposed to be college-aged partiers. Throughout the film, statements about just finishing school and calling one of them “kid” confirm the intended age of the characters, but the entire cast looks late 30s or early 40s. I googled it, and they look that way because they are that age! Why do you cast people twice the age of the roles they are supposed to play? It made everything more far-fetched and poorly done. 2022 has not proven itself a good year for shark movies.
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.
