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Cave Rescue (2019): Cast, Ratings & Where to Watch

Cave Rescue (2019) movie poster

Cave Rescue is a 2019 drama directed by Tom Waller, starring Ron Smoorenburg as USAF Specialist, Eoin O'Brien and Kelly B. Jones. It runs 1 hour 39 minutes. Its Echo Score is 37/100. Rent or buy it on Apple TV Store and Fandango At Home.

Cave Rescue (2019) movie poster
Released
Runtime
1h 39m (99 min)
Director
Tom Waller
Genre
Drama
Original language
Thai
After the credits
No No extra scene
The story

What Is Cave Rescue About?

The premise of Cave Rescue without spoilers.

Based on the real-life events that gripped the world, this film recounts the perilous mission to save a youth soccer team. When rising floodwaters trap a group of boys inside a vast cave system, an international team of skilled divers is urgently assembled. Facing treacherous conditions and dwindling hope, they race against time to reach the boys and bring them to safety.

Where to watch

Where to Watch Cave Rescue

Rent or buy it from Apple TV Store and Fandango At Home. US availability and prices from JustWatch.

Streaming availability in the US, powered by JustWatch logo

Cast & crew

Cave Rescue Cast & Characters

Ron Smoorenburg leads the cast as USAF Specialist, with Eoin O'Brien as USAF Sgt. O'Brien and Kelly B. Jones as Heathrow Ground Staff. Directed by Tom Waller; 28 actors are credited in all.

Also Starring in Cave Rescue

· 24 more
Show all 28 cast members
Ratings

Cave Rescue Reviews & Ratings

Our Echo Score gives it 37/100, strongest in story & flow (45) and weakest in rewatch factor (30).

37 /100

Cave Rescue Echo Score Breakdown

Cave Rescue offers a factual recount of the 2018 Thai cave incident but struggles to transcend its documentary‑style roots, resulting in a largely unsatisfying cinematic experience. Reviewers note uneven pacing, subpar cinematography, and thin character work that limit emotional impact. While some appreciate the authentic on‑location filming and occasional poignant moments, the film’s production flaws and narrative gaps dominate perception. Consequently, the movie delivers limited appeal beyond a single viewing.

Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.

  • Art & Craft 35

    In terms of art and craft, the film’s production values are widely criticized. Reviewers describe the cinematography as exhausting, with relentless handheld shots that obscure visual clarity, and note a lack of polished editing. Although some commend the on‑site shooting and realistic set pieces, the overall visual execution feels rough and detracts from immersion.

  • Character & Emotion 40

    When evaluating character and emotion, critics find the performances shallow and unengaging. The blend of professional actors with real participants results in uneven acting, with many characters described as one‑dimensional and lacking dialogue. A few reviewers mention an emotional ending that elicits tears, but overall the film fails to develop meaningful connections with its protagonists.

  • Story & Flow 45

    Regarding story and flow, the narrative is viewed as fragmented and slow. Reviewers point out an uninspired first half that lacks tension, missing details about how the boys survived, and an overemphasis on peripheral figures like pump operators. While the latter portion gains some emotional momentum, the overall pacing and limited insight keep the plot from fully engaging the audience.

  • Sensory Experience 35

    In terms of sensory experience, the film receives mixed feedback. Critics criticize the sound design and visual style, noting that the handheld camera work creates a jarring viewing experience and that subtitle gaps hinder comprehension of Thai dialogue. Some appreciate the authentic on‑location ambience and occasional effective musical cues, but overall the auditory and visual elements are considered uneven and detract from immersion.

  • Rewatch Factor 30

    Rewatch factor is generally low, with many reviewers advising viewers to seek alternative versions of the rescue story. The film’s pacing issues, weak character arcs, and unsatisfying visual execution reduce its replay value. Though a few consider it a worthwhile supplemental glimpse after watching other adaptations, the consensus suggests limited appeal for repeat viewings.

Details

Cave Rescue Also Known As

5 alternative titles, including “营救野猪队” and “Cuộc giải cứu trong hang sâu”.

Also known as
  • 营救野猪队
  • Cuộc giải cứu trong hang sâu
  • 洞穴救援
  • 동굴 구조작전
  • החילוץ מהמערה

Seen Cave Rescue?

FAQ

Cave Rescue FAQ: Where to Watch, Cast & Runtime

Runtime, release date, director, cast, where to watch, post-credit scenes and language of Cave Rescue, each answered in a sentence.

How long is Cave Rescue?

Cave Rescue runs 1 hour 39 minutes (99 minutes).

When was Cave Rescue released?

Cave Rescue was released on November 21, 2019.

Who directed Cave Rescue?

Cave Rescue was directed by Tom Waller.

More films by Tom Waller

Who is in the cast of Cave Rescue?

Cave Rescue stars Ron Smoorenburg as USAF Specialist, Eoin O'Brien as USAF Sgt. O'Brien and Kelly B. Jones as Heathrow Ground Staff, among 28 credited actors.

Where can I watch Cave Rescue?

In the US, Cave Rescue is available to rent or buy on Apple TV Store, Fandango At Home and Google Play Movies (availability from JustWatch).

Does Cave Rescue have a post-credit scene?

No. Cave Rescue has no extra scene during or after the credits.

What language is Cave Rescue in?

The original language of Cave Rescue is Thai.

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