Many good things can be said about James Cameron’s The Abyss. Technically, Mikael Salomon’s underwater coverage overflows with mystery. However, despite being a huge fan of actor Michael Biehn (The Terminator), his performance leaves a lot to be desired. Apparently, 20th Century Fox went out of their way to promote Biehn’s Oscar campaign. Despite the hard work, he failed to garner a Best Supporting Actor nomination, and it’s not hard to see why. He doesn't convince as a soldier experiencing High Pressure Nervous Syndrome. The physical tics, including agitation and shaky hands, seem like gimmicks rather than authentic, emotional signs of madness.

During the opening sequence, the Montana, an American ballistic missile submarine, sinks in two thousand feet of water. In spite of hurricane warnings, a deep sea drilling crew and several Navy Seals are dispatched. While conducting the search for survivors, two people experience encounters of a different kind.

Before the hammer comes down, let me say that the special effects, sound editing and two central performances remain impeccable. Ed Harris plays an engaging protagonist, still holding on to the dream of a failed marriage. He refuses to take his wedding ring off. Now that’s commitment for you! Meanwhile, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio delivers the performance of her career. It’s easy to regard her as obnoxious, yet she reveals extra dimensions as the plot unfolds.

Unfortunately, The Abyss seems dogged by an array of pacing issues. Although the Special Edition clarifies certain narrative elements, the film meanders through its genre clichés. Neither the love story nor the ET reference nor the danger of World War Three (with the Russians) can untangle such murky editing.

(Released by 20th Century Fox Film Corporation and rated "PG-13" by MPAA.)