THE BIG BLUE. Directed by Luc Besson; written by Luc Besson and Robert Garland; produced by Patrice Ledoux for Weintraub Entertainment Group. Starring Jean- Marc Barr, Rosanna Arquette and Jean Reno. Rated PG.
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The Big Blue is the first English language movie for director Besson. It's very much like a foreign film in its slow pacing, enigmatic characters and beautiful, exotic scenery. Viewers who like the ocean and are interested in marine life—particularly dolphins—will like it, although they might wish for more underwater scenes and fewer on land.
Mayol (Barr) is the mysterious central figure of The Big Blue. From boyhood, he's been intrigued and beguiled by the sea. Either through lots of practice, or by virtue of some natural gift, he grows up to be a natural for "free diving." Free, that is, from such encumbrances as scuba gear.
(There actually is a world champion free diver named Jacquea Mayol, who holds the depth record of 345 feet, and who was a consultant during the filming of The Big Blue. The screen version of Mayol possesses his diving skill, but not his personality.)
Joanna (Arquette) is a New York businesswoman who meets Mayol in an unlikely spot and falls for him instantly. They make an attractive couple in spite of his strangeness and quiet manner. Arquette is her usual charming self.
If you got enough exposure to the ocean during a weekend this summer, then avoid The Big Blue like the plague. But if you never can get enough, be sure to see it. You'll find some kindred spirits there.
September 7, 1988