The Woman in Cabin 10
Based on Ruth Ware’s novel of the same name and directed by Simon Stone, The Woman in Cabin 10 stars Keira Knightley as Laura Blacklock, an award-winning journalist invited to attend a luxury cruise for an assignment. Although the job was supposed to be a chance for her to unwind for a few days, events take a darker turn when she witnesses the guest from the neighbouring cabin fall overboard. When she informs the crew, however, she’s told that there never was anyone staying there and everyone on board has been accounted for. Determined to prove what she saw, Laura sets out to uncover the truth, a move which puts her life in grave danger.
Trapped on a yacht where every one of the ultra-wealthy guests is a suspect, this feature had the potential to be an enthralling mystery. Frustratingly, its trifecta of bland characters, undercooked plotlines, and uneven pacing sinks most of the fun.
To the film’s credit, Laura is an interesting character, and Knightley puts in a commendable turn in the role. As well as being a determined and skilled reporter, a harrowing event from her recent past has taken its toll on her mental well-being. In classic genre fashion, this detail is used as a means of gaslighting her into believing that it’s all in her head. Although the movie establishes a connection between her trauma-induced nightmares and what she saw that night, the script is quick to drop this line of inquiry, rendering the narrative far less interesting.
This lack of depth is also apparent in the supporting characters. Whether it’s a prominent rockstar, a social media influencer or the party’s host (played by Guy Pearce), each of the potential perpetrators has no defining personality other than being extraordinarily rich. The feature functions as a critique of the unchecked power of the elite. However, it’s one without much bite.
Following a steadily paced first half, the plot takes a sharp left turn after a major revelation at the midway point. Despite ramping up the urgency of the situation, the remaining half becomes one drawn-out final act that offers no further surprises.
Other than Knightley’s strong performance, there’s not much reason to embark on this latest Netflix thriller.
Andrew Murray
The Woman in Cabin 10 is released on Netflix on 10th October 2025.
Watch the trailer for The Woman in Cabin 10 here:
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