Whalefall 2026
The most intense, claustrophobic movie I've seen in quite some time, and the scariest I've seen in theaters this October. 3.5 out of 5.Mike, reviewed October 15, 2026
Whalefall is the most intense, claustrophobic movie I have seen in quite some time, and I'm giving it a 3.5 out of 5. I saw it early, and this review is spoiler-free.
Austin Abrams plays Jay, who dives off the coast of California to find his father's remains and ends up inside the belly of a whale. His dad is played by Josh Brolin, who we see a lot of in flashbacks. Brian Duffield directs.
Jay gets inside the whale a lot sooner than I expected, and just when things couldn't get any worse for him, they get worse. Luckily, the flashbacks with his dad break us out of there, which is a good breather. Even in a wetsuit and mask, Austin Abrams makes you feel every bit of that struggle.
I will say the metaphor between the ocean, the whale and his father didn't fully land for me, and the third act leans on far too many conveniences. But the cinematography and the sound design are excellent. I saw it in Dolby, and I'd recommend a large-format screen if you can.
Honestly, it's the scariest movie I've seen in theaters this October so far.
Every Tuesday, the week in one email
What’s out on disc that day and what’s coming. One email, Tuesday morning, nothing else. You confirm it from your inbox.
You’re on the Tuesday list. Thanks.
Did I get it right?
One tap. No account. Your votes build a taste match with mine.
