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The Bermuda Depths Blu-ray Review

“The Bermuda Depths” lacks depth.

Based on a story by Arthur Rankin, “The Bermuda Depths” tells the story of a young man (Magnus) who lost his father to a mysterious accident AND his best friend Jenny in his youth. Now, as an adult, he’s looking for answers and may just find them in the form of a mystifying beautiful swimming woman and a giant turtle. Elsewhere in the movie is the story of a scientist (Dr. Paulis) and his partner (Eric- an old friend of Magnus) who are looking for unknown creatures in the sea. As you can guess, they are drawn to the giant turtle.

While there are certainly those that will have fond memories of seeing this on television back in 1978, I doubt there will be much interest in this bizarre dud outside of that niche group. It’s a shame because this fantasy movie was ripe with potential. I mean, how can you not be intrigued by a live-action Bermuda Triangle based fantasy movie produced by Rankin and Bass (the minds behind the iconic stop motion animated holiday specials) that stars Burl Ives and Carl Weathers and features a gigantic turtle? Alas, director Tom Kotani tells the story at a glacial pace and writer William Overgard does little with the ideas presented here. It tries to be many things at once be it a sea faring adventure, a tragic romance, a “Moby Dick” esque quest, a fantasy, a mystery and even some sci-fi, but it never quite gels like it should despite it’s creative ambitions. You’re left wanting more but not in the good way. 

I wish I could say the cast helps the movie, but it’s largely filled with wooden performances. Leigh McCloskey has no screen presence outside of his looks, Burl Ives doesn’t seem too interested, and Connie Sellecca doesn’t have enough of a character to work with. Only Carl Weathers turns in a lively performance here as the curious Eric.  

Note: This disc contains the U.S. Broadcast Television Version and the International Theatrical Version which are presented in different aspect ratios.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 1.33:1 1080p (U.S.) and 1.85:1 1080p (International). How does it look? Fans will undoubtedly be stunned by this new transfer as it is crystal clear. While the 1.85:1 version looks grand, the U.S. cut looks even better.

Audio Track: 2.0 DTS-HD MA. How does it sound? A nice clean 2.0 track.

The lone extra is a commentary by author/TV movie historian Amanda Reyes and Lance Vaughan (Kindertrauma founder).

March 26, 2021 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | fantasy, Giant Turtle Movie, Rankin Bass, The Bermuda Depths Blu-ray Review