BLACK WATER
2018
Aurélien Vernhes-Lermusiaux
SYNOPSIS
Black Water is an action thriller directed by Pasha Patriki. The story follows Scott Wheeler, played by Jean-Claude Van Damme, an undercover CIA operative who wakes up imprisoned inside a secret facility located aboard a nuclear submarine. After being framed for treason and stripped of his identity, Wheeler must join forces with fellow captive Marco, portrayed by Dolph Lundgren, to fight their way through the submarine’s armed crew, uncover the truth behind his capture, and escape before it is too late.
FESTIVALS & AWARDS
Release & Distribution
The film was released on May 25, 2018 primarily through the direct-to-video market and digital platforms in the United States, without a significant presence at major international film festivals.
Critical reception was mixed, with reviews pointing to classic action and thriller genre elements, while Don Johnson’s performance was frequently highlighted as one of the film’s strongest aspects by specialized critics.
Production & Context
Black Water was promoted as the fifth cinematic collaboration between Jean-Claude Van Damme and Dolph Lundgren, and the second film in which both actors portray allied characters within the story.