10 Shows & Movies Similar to The Rig (2023)

Description: Similar to 'The Rig' (2023), 'The Abyss' is a deep-sea thriller that combines elements of science fiction and horror. Both films explore the dangers of underwater exploration and the psychological toll it takes on the crew. The claustrophobic setting and the unknown threats lurking in the depths are central themes in both movies.

Fact: 'The Abyss' was groundbreaking for its underwater filming techniques and special effects. The film's climax features one of the first CGI water tentacles, a milestone in visual effects. Director James Cameron pushed the cast and crew to their limits, with some underwater scenes requiring actors to hold their breath for extended periods.

Description: 'Leviathan' shares with 'The Rig' the premise of a deep-sea crew encountering a monstrous threat. Both films blend sci-fi and horror, with the ocean's depths serving as a backdrop for terror. The themes of corporate greed and the dangers of unchecked experimentation are also present in both.

Fact: 'Leviathan' was one of several underwater horror films released in the late 1980s. The creature effects were created by Stan Winston, known for his work on 'Aliens' and 'Jurassic Park'. The film's cast includes Peter Weller and Richard Crenna.

Description: 'Sphere' and 'The Rig' both involve a team of experts trapped in an isolated environment facing an unknown and potentially deadly force. The psychological tension and the exploration of human fear and paranoia are central to both stories. The underwater setting adds to the claustrophobic atmosphere.

Fact: 'Sphere' is based on Michael Crichton's novel of the same name. The film's underwater scenes were shot in a giant water tank. The cast included Dustin Hoffman, Sharon Stone, and Samuel L. Jackson.

Description: 'Below' and 'The Rig' both take place in confined, underwater environments where the crew must deal with both external dangers and internal conflicts. The supernatural undertones in 'Below' add a layer of mystery similar to the unexplained events in 'The Rig'. The tension and paranoia among the crew are central to both films.

Fact: 'Below' was written by Darren Aronofsky and directed by David Twohy. The film's submarine set was built to be fully submersible. 'Below' was inspired by classic ghost stories set in isolated locations.

Description: 'The Cave' shares with 'The Rig' the theme of a team trapped in a dangerous, isolated environment with a mysterious threat. Both films combine elements of adventure and horror, with the characters relying on their wits to survive. The exploration of uncharted territories and the unknown dangers within are key similarities.

Fact: 'The Cave' was filmed in Romania, using actual cave systems. The film's creatures were designed by Patrick Tatopoulos, known for his work on 'Godzilla' (1998). The cast includes Cole Hauser and Eddie Cibrian.

Description: 'Sanctum' and 'The Rig' both focus on survival in extreme underwater conditions. The claustrophobic settings and the struggle against nature's unpredictability are central to both films. The emotional and physical challenges faced by the characters create a tense and gripping narrative.

Fact: 'Sanctum' was executive produced by James Cameron. The film is based on the real-life experiences of co-writer Andrew Wight. Much of the filming took place in underwater caves in Australia.

Description: 'The Deep House' and 'The Rig' both use underwater settings to create a sense of dread and isolation. Both films involve a team discovering something terrifying beneath the surface, with the water itself becoming a character. The supernatural elements in 'The Deep House' parallel the unknown threats in 'The Rig'.

Fact: 'The Deep House' was filmed in an actual submerged house. The directors, Alexandre Bustillo and Julien Maury, are known for their work in French horror. The film combines haunted house and underwater horror genres.

Description: Like 'The Rig', 'Deepwater Horizon' is based on real-life events involving an offshore drilling rig disaster. Both films highlight the human cost of industrial accidents and the bravery of those who fight to survive. The tension and realism in 'Deepwater Horizon' mirror the high-stakes drama of 'The Rig'.

Fact: 'Deepwater Horizon' used practical effects to recreate the explosion, including real fire and water. The film's set was built to scale, replicating the actual rig's dimensions. Mark Wahlberg met with survivors to prepare for his role.

Description: While 'The Meg' is more action-oriented, it shares with 'The Rig' the setting of an underwater facility threatened by a massive, ancient creature. Both films explore the dangers of deep-sea exploration and the unpredictability of the ocean's depths. The suspense and survival elements are key similarities.

Fact: 'The Meg' is based on the novel 'Meg: A Novel of Deep Terror' by Steve Alten. The film's budget was over $150 million, making it one of the most expensive shark movies ever made. Jason Statham trained in free diving for his role.

Description: 'Underwater' shares with 'The Rig' the setting of an underwater facility facing catastrophic failure and unknown terrors. Both films emphasize survival against overwhelming odds and the isolation of being trapped deep beneath the ocean's surface. The blend of sci-fi and horror elements is a key similarity.

Fact: 'Underwater' was inspired by real-life deep-sea drilling disasters. The film's creature designs were kept secret to enhance the suspense. Kristen Stewart performed many of her own stunts, including underwater sequences.