The film presents a detailed account of the lead-up to the incident, the international search-and-rescue operation, and the broader implications for deep-sea tourism and safety regulations. Drawing on interviews, archival footage, and expert commentary, the documentary investigates both the human stories and the systemic failures involved in the tragedy.
Titan: The OceanGate Disaster had its world premiere at the Tribeca Festival on June 6, 2025, and was released globally by Netflix on June 11, 2025. The film received critical praise for its restrained direction and comprehensive treatment of the disaster, with particular attention to its ethical and technical insights into high-risk underwater exploration.
The film features interviews from former OceanGate employees including David Lochridge, who was OceanGate's former Director of Marine Operations and the primary whistleblower, former intern Emily Hammermeister.[3] Sydney Nargeolet, the daughter of Paul-Henry Nargeolet was interviewed and provided testimony as a victim's family member.[4] Additionally, Mark Harris, an investigative journalist for Wired who reported on the OceanGate disaster was also interviewed for the film.[5]
Dennis Harvey of Variety described the documentary as "gripping to a point if arguably a bit overlong," adding that it carries "the grim suspense of similar nonfiction catastrophe accounts, like The Rescue (2021), without the inspirational angle—or, needless to say, the rescue."[11]The New York Times found the film emotionally restrained but effective, stating it "evokes the claustrophobia of disaster" while resisting dramatization.[12]Common Sense Media gave a mixed review, praising its educational value but warning that younger viewers may find it disturbing.[13]Slate noted the film's exploration of Stockton Rush's character, describing it as revealing "the sickness writ small" in his relentless drive.[14]
Some reviewers praised the film's focus and construction. The Guardian described it as "a haunting autopsy of ambition and arrogance," singling out the testimony of whistleblowers and surviving families.[15]The Wall Street Journal wrote that the film "succeeds as a cautionary tale of unchecked ambition" and "captures the psychological ecosystem that enabled OceanGate."[16]Entertainment Weekly emphasized the documentary's character-driven narrative, stating it "delves into the psyche of ... CEO Stockton Rush and explores his relentless quest ... at any cost."[17]Decider recommended audiences stream the film, applauding its journalistic rigor while noting that it "offers few surprises to those who followed the story closely."[18]
Other critics offered a more critical take. Matt Goldberg of TheWrap faulted the film for "failing to discover the depths of the issues that led to the fateful implosion," suggesting that it placed too much emphasis on Rush's personal misjudgments.[19]The A.V. Club found the documentary "thoroughly researched but emotionally inert," contending that it "illuminates more about corporate ego than the tragedy's human toll."[20]
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