Netflix’s latest disaster thriller The Rip promises tidal waves of tension and survival drama—but does it deliver? This Australian catastrophe film follows beachgoers caught in a deadly rip current situation that spirals into nightmare territory. Here’s our honest review of whether it’s worth your streaming time.
Table of Contents
The Rip Movie Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Title | The Rip |
| Streaming Platform | Netflix |
| Genre | Disaster/Thriller/Survival |
| Runtime | 97 Minutes |
| Director | Brendan Fletcher |
| Country of Origin | Australia |
| Language | English |
| Rating | TV-MA |
| Release Date | January 2026 |
| Our Rating | 6.5/10 |
Plot Summary (No Major Spoilers)
The Rip centers on a group of swimmers at a popular Australian beach who become trapped in a powerful rip current during what should be a routine beach day. As conditions worsen and rescue efforts fail, the survivors must make impossible choices while fighting exhaustion, hypothermia, and the unforgiving ocean.
What Works Well
Realistic Water Sequences: The ocean cinematography feels genuinely threatening, avoiding over-CGI disaster movie pitfalls
Strong Performances: Lead actors convey authentic panic and exhaustion convincingly
Tight Runtime: At 97 minutes, the film doesn’t overstay its welcome
Practical Effects: Real-world stunts add visceral impact missing from CGI-heavy competitors
Educational Angle: Actually teaches viewers about rip current dangers and survival techniques
Similar to survival thrillers like The Shallows, The Rip maximizes tension from a simple but deadly natural threat.
Where It Falls Short
Predictable Character Arcs: You can guess who survives within the first 20 minutes
Thin Character Development: Limited backstory makes it hard to emotionally invest
Pacing Issues: Middle section drags before the final act escalates
Convenient Plot Devices: Some rescue attempt failures feel contrived for drama
For more Netflix movie reviews and streaming recommendations, explore our entertainment section.
Verdict: Should You Watch The Rip?
Watch if you enjoy:
- Realistic disaster scenarios over blockbuster spectacle
- Ocean-based thrillers and survival stories
- Tight, focused narratives under 100 minutes
- Australian cinema with natural location shooting
Skip if you want:
- Character-driven emotional depth
- Unpredictable plot twists
- High-budget CGI disaster sequences
- Complex narratives with multiple storylines
Final Verdict: The Rip is a competent, watchable disaster thriller that executes its premise adequately without reaching greatness. It’s perfect for a casual Friday night watch but won’t leave lasting impact. Rating: 6.5/10
Comparisons to Similar Films
Better than: 47 Meters Down: Uncaged
On par with: The Shallows
Not as good as: Adrift or Open Water
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FAQs
Is The Rip on Netflix worth watching?
The Rip is a solid 6.5/10 disaster thriller with realistic ocean sequences and tight 97-minute runtime, perfect for casual viewing but lacking deep character development.
What is The Rip movie about on Netflix?
The Rip follows beachgoers trapped in a deadly rip current at an Australian beach, fighting for survival as rescue efforts fail and ocean conditions worsen.
