Get ready to be divided—Netflix’s latest psychological thriller, The Woman in Cabin 10, has stormed the charts and sparked a heated debate among viewers. Starring Keira Knightley, this 90-minute adaptation of Ruth Ware’s bestselling novel follows journalist Lo as she uncovers a chilling mystery aboard a luxury superyacht. But here’s where it gets controversial: while some fans are calling it 'amazing' and 'gripping,' others are left disappointed, arguing the film falls short of the book’s depth. Is it a thrilling ride or a missed opportunity?
Since its release on October 10, The Woman in Cabin 10 has claimed the top spot on Netflix’s global charts. But the buzz isn’t all positive. One viewer praised Knightley’s performance but criticized the film’s pacing, suggesting a limited series might have better served the story. Another pointed out that the adaptation smoothed over the book’s best elements—the protagonist’s unreliability and the claustrophobic tension—in favor of a more generic thriller. And this is the part most people miss: despite its star-studded cast, including Guy Pearce, Hannah Waddingham, and David Morrissey, the film currently holds a disappointing 27% on Rotten Tomatoes.
Critics haven’t held back either. The Guardian called the drama 'cardboard quality,' while The Independent labeled it 'Agatha Christie for people with limited attention spans.' Yet, some viewers are baffled by the negative reviews, calling it 'highly entertaining' and urging others to judge for themselves. So, is The Woman in Cabin 10 a masterpiece or a misstep?
The plot centers on Lo, who witnesses a passenger go overboard—only to be told it was all a dream. As she digs deeper, her life is put in danger. With a cast that also includes David Ajala, Kaya Scodelario, and Art Malik, the film had all the ingredients for success. But did it deliver? That’s where opinions clash.
Here’s the burning question: Did the adaptation do justice to Ruth Ware’s novel, or did it lose its edge in the transition to screen? Let us know in the comments—we want to hear your take on this divisive thriller!
