If you're a fan of tense, claustrophobic horror set in confined spaces, there's a hidden gem now waiting for you on free streaming. David Twohy's Below, a 2002 WWII submarine thriller with a supernatural twist, has quietly made its way to Pluto TV, and it's the perfect pick for a spooky October night.
Long before Netflix's Below (the one with Josh Hartnett and a sea creature) became a global hit, this earlier film with the same name offered a very different kind of nautical nightmare. Directed by David Twohy, who co-wrote the screenplay with Darren Aronofsky and Lucas Sussman, this 2002 release is a prime example of psychological horror set against the backdrop of war. It's a film that didn't get the attention it deserved upon its initial release, but it has since gained a cult following—and now, over two decades later, it's available to stream for free.
What Is 'Below' About?
Set in 1943, Below follows the crew of the USS Tiger Shark, a U.S. Navy submarine on patrol in the Atlantic. Their routine mission takes a dark turn when they rescue three survivors from a sunken British hospital ship. Among the survivors is a German prisoner of war, whom the commanding officer, Lieutenant Brice, immediately executes. That act sets off a chain of eerie events: the crew begins hearing disembodied voices, strange mechanical failures plague the sub, and crew members start dying in horrifying accidents. The submarine becomes a floating tomb, and the line between reality and supernatural terror blurs.
The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Bruce Greenwood, Olivia Williams, Matthew Davis, Holt McCallany, Scott Foley, Zach Galifianakis, Jason Flemyng, and Dexter Fletcher. Their performances add a layer of authenticity to the mounting dread, making the confined setting feel even more suffocating.
Why It's Worth Your Time
While Below wasn't a box office success—earning only $2.6 million against a $40 million budget—it has aged well. Critics have praised its claustrophobic atmosphere, the detailed submarine sets, and the strong cast. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 65% Tomatometer score, though audiences were less enthusiastic, giving it 45%. Some found the story's resolution unsatisfying and felt it leaned too heavily on familiar ghost-story tropes. But for those who appreciate slow-burn tension and a sense of dread that builds with every creak of the hull, Below is a rewarding watch.
If you're in the mood for more horror that gets under your skin, check out our list of horror movies that hook you instantly. Or, if you prefer your scares on the page, these eldritch horror books might be your next obsession.
Below is now streaming for free on Pluto TV. It's a perfect addition to your October viewing lineup, offering a unique blend of war drama and supernatural horror that you won't soon forget.
