Even disappointing movies can shine for a moment or two. Regarding submarine thriller Black Sea, Jude Law turns in a bravura performance as Robinson, a working stiff who loses his job. Yet, it’s not long before he heads out to plunder a U-boat containing Nazi gold.

Director Kevin Macdonald gives us the basics, yet only Law’s character comes equipped with a back story. This estranged father and husband has always put work before family. So, does seeking the treasure offer an act of redemption or merely an escape from life’s greater responsibilities? Because Macdonald doesn't answer these questions, it’s difficult to pinpoint the primary motivation.

Meanwhile, tensions between British and Russian crew members flare up over disbursement of future spoils. However, it’s a smokescreen as Black Sea struggles to navigate the treacherous waters of expectation.

John Huston’s The Treasure of the Sierra Madre showed how riches can pollute the human spirit, so it’s hard conjuring a script with the necessary vibrancy. As such, writer Dennis Kelly faces an insurmountable task. On a more pressing note, the latter rarely justifies our involvement as the plot reaches convoluted extremes.

Striking it rich can lead to envy and avarice. Unfortunately for Macdonald, simply placing these attributes in capital letters doesn't raise Black Sea above such shallow ambitions.

(Released by Focus Features and rated “R” for language throughout, some graphic images and violence.)