Let's face it: no one lining up to see a movie called "The Meg" that is a blatant "Jaws" -inspired ripoff is expecting an award-worthy film. I mean, no knock on Jason Statham, but can you really expect a critically-acclaimed film with him attached as the star? So, I'm not entirely sure what people were expecting. The ultra-low reviews are uncalled for. This is a fun film with lots of humor, jump scares, etc. and it leaves you with that same pit-in-the-stomach fear (endless, bottomless black sea that can hide anything until it's upon you) that most films of this genre do. The acting here is adequate. I think the producers were smart to include Asian cast members to appeal to the Asian market. They are all excellent and bring an almost "Godzilla" - like element to the film. The CGI and special effects are decent enough. That technology has come a long way and you've got to be particularly knit-picky to even notice it. The story is a little lacking, but apparently sone of it was made-up on the fly. In the end, you get a half-decent Jason Statham movie about a big-a** shark. I watched it with my son, and in spite of our shared apprehension, we enjoyed it. We laughed, we jumped; there was one point my son pulled his legs up on the couch... Worth the watch if you're into the concept. Just don't expect too much.
