Breaking Surface is a heart-stopping Norwegian survival thriller that will leave you breathless. Directed by Johannes Åhdén, this taut, claustrophobic film takes place almost entirely underwater, making it a true test of endurance — both for the characters and the audience. With minimal dialogue and relentless tension, Breaking Surface is a masterclass in suspense, survival, and the will to fight against impossible odds.

The plot centers around two sisters, Ida and Tessa, who venture out on a diving trip in the freezing waters off the Norwegian coast. What begins as a routine dive quickly turns into a nightmare when a freak accident traps Tessa at the bottom of the sea, leaving her unable to ascend to the surface. With no communication, no help, and time running out, Ida must summon every ounce of strength and courage to rescue her sister from the depths before the situation becomes fatal.

The beauty of Breaking Surface lies in its simplicity. The story doesn’t need elaborate backstories or unnecessary subplots. Instead, it focuses entirely on the perilous situation the sisters find themselves in, creating a suffocating atmosphere of urgency and fear. The cold, dark waters become an almost sentient force, pushing the characters to their physical and emotional limits.

The performances are outstanding, particularly by Moa Gammel (Ida) and Trine Wiggen (Tessa), who bring emotional depth to their roles. They embody the fear, frustration, and desperation that come with being trapped in an unforgiving environment, and their bond as sisters makes the stakes all the more personal. The film’s pacing is tight, with no wasted time as it builds a relentless sense of impending doom.

Visually, the underwater cinematography is stunning and claustrophobic, adding to the tension. The scenes shot beneath the waves are both beautiful and terrifying — the vast expanse of the ocean feels like an ever-present threat, an unpredictable and cold force that is always lurking just out of sight. The sound design amplifies the intensity, with muffled, drowning noises and the sound of water creating a haunting backdrop to the sisters’ ordeal.