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The Abyss

The Abyss (1989) - Jumpscare Guide

19892:20:00
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7.5
PG-13

Plot

A civilian oil rig crew is recruited to conduct a search and rescue effort when a nuclear submarine mysteriously sinks. One diver soon finds himself on a spectacular odyssey 25,000 feet below the ocean's surface where he confronts a mysterious force that has the power to change the world or destroy it.

Director

James Cameron
James Cameron

Cast

Ed Harris
Ed HarrisVirgil 'Bud' Brigman
Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio
Mary Elizabeth MastrantonioLindsey Brigman
Michael Biehn
Michael BiehnLieutenant Hiram Coffey
Leo Burmester
Leo BurmesterCatton ‘Catfish’ De Vries
Todd Graff
Todd GraffAlan 'Hippy' Carnes
John Bedford Lloyd
John Bedford LloydJammer Willis
Kimberly Scott
Kimberly ScottLisa 'One Night' Standing
Chris Elliott
Chris ElliottBendix
J.C. Quinn
J.C. QuinnArliss 'Sonny' Dawson
Pierce Oliver Brewer, Jr.Lew Finler
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Does The Abyss Have Jump Scares?

YesThe Abyss (1989) has 2 jump scares (0 major, 2 minor)

First scare: 01:15:54 | Last scare: 01:35:39

Scare Level: Low — Beginner-friendly

Jumpscare Rating
B

Minimal Jumpscares

Short: Occasional mild startles that are easily anticipated. Suitable for beginners.

The Abyss earns a B rating with minimal jumpscares that use subtle timing rather than aggressive intensity. The few shock moments present use restrained visual shifts and gentle audio cues, making this accessible for viewers building their horror tolerance. Perfect for those seeking atmospheric tension with occasional, manageable startles.

Analysis:

Total: 2Minor: 2Intensity: 2

Contains 2 minor jumpscares.

0.5/10
COZY
So mild, you might forget you're watching a horror movie. Perfect for a date night where you want to seem brave.
Fear Factor Analysis
Cozy
Flashing LightsGore/BloodNeedlesVomitingSelf HarmAnxietyDrowningClaustrophobia

Common Questions About The Abyss

Total Jumpscares: 2

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Jumpscare Timeline

See when jumpscares occur throughout the movie

Start Movie

00:00:00 / 02:20:00
3 Safe Zones - Relax

Jumpscare Details

01:15:54
Minor

Hippy witnesses SEALs arming a warhead to a remote c3RvbG vehicle. Turning to warn his allies, he finds Coffey's silent, imposing form suddenly inches away.

Submitted by: Horror_Hannah

01:35:39
Minor

Lindsey's desperate radio plea for "assist—" is violently drowned out by a shower of sparks from the electronics, instantly killing all power and plunging the room into absolute blackness.

Submitted by: Horror_Hannah

Ask AI about The Abyss

ClaudeGemini
Perplexity