Deep Water (2022), directed by Adrian Lyne and based on Patricia Highsmith’s novel of the same name, is a psychological thriller that dives into the complexities of a crumbling marriage steeped in deception, manipulation, and dark secrets. Marking Lyne’s return to filmmaking after a two-decade hiatus, the film stars Ben Affleck and Ana de Armas in a simmering tale of passion and peril.

The story centers on Vic Van Allen (Ben Affleck) and his wife, Melinda (Ana de Armas), who appear to lead a privileged life in their affluent suburban community. Beneath their polished exterior, however, lies a deeply dysfunctional relationship. Vic tolerates Melinda’s overt infidelity to avoid divorce, while Melinda flaunts her lovers, seemingly relishing her ability to provoke her husband.

The dynamic between Vic and Melinda grows increasingly toxic as Vic’s jealousy and resentment simmer beneath the surface. When one of Melinda’s lovers mysteriously disappears, Vic begins to fuel rumors that he was involved, using these insinuations to assert a twisted control over their marriage. As the line between manipulation and reality blurs, their games spiral into a dangerous realm, threatening both their lives and the lives of those around them.

Ben Affleck delivers a restrained yet menacing performance as Vic, portraying a man whose outward calm masks a seething, volatile core. Ana de Armas, on the other hand, exudes sensuality and unpredictability as Melinda, embodying a character who is both alluring and destructive. Together, their chemistry crackles with tension, creating a relationship that is as captivating as it is unsettling.

Adrian Lyne, known for his exploration of eroticism and moral ambiguity in films like Fatal Attraction and Unfaithful, brings his signature style to Deep Water. The film is laced with a moody, atmospheric tension, using its lush suburban setting as a backdrop for the dark psychological games at play. Cinematographer Eigil Bryld enhances the film’s tone with shadowy, intimate visuals that underscore the characters’ internal conflicts.

Despite its strong performances and atmospheric direction, Deep Water received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised its exploration of marital dysfunction and its noir sensibilities, others felt the narrative lacked the depth and cohesion of Highsmith’s novel. The pacing, which alternates between slow-burn suspense and moments of shocking intensity, drew polarized responses, with some finding it engaging and others considering it uneven.

Thematically, Deep Water delves into the darker aspects of human relationships, examining themes of control, obsession, and the masks people wear to maintain appearances. It also probes the thin line between love and hatred, illustrating how a relationship built on power struggles can lead to devastating consequences.

Deep Water is a provocative and unsettling psychological thriller that thrives on its performances and atmospheric tension. While it may not resonate with all audiences, its exploration of the darker corners of love and marriage ensures it remains a compelling entry in Adrian Lyne’s filmography.