Guillermo del Toro’s 2017 fantasy romance film, The Shape of Water, mesmerizes viewers. Set in 1962 Baltimore, it follows Elisa Esposito, a mute janitor. She works at a top-secret government research facility.1 Elisa’s life transforms when she discovers an amphibious creature held captive. Against all odds, they form an unbreakable bond.1
Directed by the acclaimed Guillermo del Toro, this film boasts talent. Sally Hawkins, Michael Shannon, Richard Jenkins star. Octavia Spencer and Doug Jones (as Amphibian Man) shine.1 A unique blend of genres explores marginalization and human connection. Critical acclaim poured in, including the Golden Lion (Venice). It won four Academy Awards, like Best Picture.1
Key Takeaways
- The Shape of Water is Guillermo del Toro’s fantasy romance set in 1962.
- Mute janitor Elisa bonds with a captive amphibious creature.
- Blending fairy tales and monster movies, it explores otherness and empathy.
- Stars include Sally Hawkins, Michael Shannon, Octavia Spencer, and Doug Jones.
- Highly acclaimed, it won the Golden Lion and four Oscars.
Guillermo del Toro’s Visionary Fairy Tale
Acclaimed writer and director Guillermo del Toro crafted a visionary fairy tale with The Shape of Water. The film blends genres and influences, paying homage to classic monster movies like Creature from the Black Lagoon.
It incorporates elements of romance, drama, and social commentary. Del Toro’s passion for genre storytelling and ability to fuse disparate elements into a cohesive whole shine through.
A Blend of Genres and Influences
The Shape of Water defies traditional genre boundaries, offering a unique cinematic experience. Critics praised its emotional depth, visual style, and storytelling approach, while audiences lauded its modern fairy tale elements.
This synthesis of fantasy, romance, social commentary, and monster movies showcases del Toro’s versatility and vision as a filmmaker.
An Homage to Classic Monster Movies
At its core, The Shape of Water appreciates classic monster movies. Set in 1962 Baltimore, it features Elisa, a mute woman who discovers a mysterious creature in a high-security lab.
This premise, visual style, and thematic elements pay homage to Creature from the Black Lagoon. Del Toro’s masterful blending creates a captivating, genre-transcending cinematic experience.
The Shape of Water showcases Guillermo del Toro’s skill in reimagining genres, delivering a unique, unforgettable experience. It received 13 Academy Award nominations, winning 4, including Best Picture and Director.
This recognition underscores the critical acclaim and artistic merit of del Toro’s visionary fairy tale.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Tomatometer | 92% based on 465 reviews2 |
| Audience Score | 73% with over 25,000 ratings2 |
| Film Budget | $19.5–20 million1 |
| Box Office Revenue | $196 million1 |
| Running Time | 123 minutes1 |
| IMDb Rating | 7.3/103 |
| IMDb User Reviews | 449K3 |
| Metascore | 873 |
Here is the rewritten content with each sentence having a maximum of 20 words and each paragraph having no more than 3 sentences. Repetitive sentences have been removed, and the text has been adjusted to an 8th & 9th grade reading level using the Flesch Reading Ease and Flesch Kincaid Grade Level methods:
The Shape of Water (2017) Movie Plot Summary
In 1962 Baltimore, during the Cold War,1 Elisa Esposito worked as a mute janitor.1 She discovered a captive amphibious creature.1 Elisa formed a forbidden connection with it.
The Cold War Era Setting
The tense Cold War backdrop heightened drama.1 Elisa’s role as a mute janitor added vulnerability.1 The top-secret facility setting created intrigue.
Elisa’s Forbidden Connection with the Amphibian Man
Elisa discovered the captive Amphibian Man.1 A blossoming forbidden love story unfolded.1 Their bond transcended species and communication barriers.
The Sadistic Colonel Strickland as the Villain
The sadistic Colonel Strickland brutally tortured the Amphibian Man.1 He ruthlessly pursued and disregarded Elisa’s humanity.1 Strickland’s actions created a compelling conflict.
Elisa had to decide whether to help the Amphibian Man escape.1 Or allow his sacrifice for national security.1 Setting up an emotionally charged climax.
Here is the rewritten content with each sentence having a maximum of 20 words and each paragraph having no more than 3 sentences. Repetitive sentences have been removed, and the content has been adjusted to target an 8th & 9th grade reading level based on the Flesch Reading Ease and Flesch Kincaid Grade Level scores:
The Magical World of The Shape of Water
The Shape of Water immerses viewers in a visually captivating, fantastical world. The exceptional production design and cinematography create this magical atmosphere. Production designer Paul D. Austerberry crafted richly detailed sets.
These sets evoke the Cold War era perfectly. From dank facility corridors to Elisa’s green-tinted apartment above a movie palace. Cinematographer Dan Laustsen’s camerawork enhances the dreamlike, otherworldly feel.13
The Amphibian Man’s Captivating Presence
At the heart of this enchanting world is the Amphibian Man. Masterfully portrayed by Doug Jones, his captivating presence draws audiences in. The mix of human and aquatic traits fascinates viewers.1
Character Analysis: The Misfits and Outcasts
The Shape of Water features misfits and outcasts.4 They find solace in each other.4 Elisa is a resourceful janitor marginalized due to her muteness.4
Her neighbor Giles is a lonely, closeted gay man.4 He provides Elisa emotional support.4 They are kindred spirits.4
Zelda, Elisa’s co-worker, is a fierce ally.4 She advocates for Elisa and the Amphibian Man.4 This unlikely group protects the captive creature and their dreams.4
Elisa: A Mute Janitor Seeking Love
Elisa is the mute protagonist.4 As a child, her voice box was cut before abandonment.4 Despite her disability, she is bright and resourceful.4
Sally Hawkins’ performance conveys emotions without dialogue.4 She makes Elisa captivating and central.4
Giles: The Lonely Gay Neighbor
Giles is Elisa’s neighbor, a struggling gay advertising artist.4 He is lonely and closeted.4 Giles provides Elisa emotional support as a kindred spirit.4
Zelda: Elisa’s Fierce Friend and Ally
Zelda is Elisa’s talkative co-worker and friend.4 She fiercely advocates for Elisa and the Amphibian Man.4 Zelda forms an unlikely alliance to protect their dreams.4
The Shape of Water (2017) Movie Review
Critics highly praise “The Shape of Water” for blending genres masterfully. It powerfully explores themes of otherness and empathy. At the heart is Sally Hawkins’ exceptional performance as Elisa, a mute woman. Her quiet strength and expressiveness drive the narrative. Through Elisa’s bond with the Amphibian Man, the film examines marginalized individuals’ experiences. It celebrates embracing differences.
The visually stunning fairy tale presents a thematically rich story. It celebrates humanity in all living creatures.
Sally Hawkins’ Exceptional Performance
Sally Hawkins captivates with her nuanced portrayal of protagonist Elisa Esposito. Her ability to convey emotions without dialogue is remarkable. Hawkins portrays Elisa’s quiet strength and growing bond with the Amphibian Man powerfully. Her performance is the film’s emotional core, drawing audiences into the fantastical world.
Exploring Themes of Otherness and Empathy
“The Shape of Water” explores experiences of societal “others.” Through Elisa’s relationship with the Amphibian Man, it examines marginalization, acceptance, and empathy’s importance. Audiences empathize with these characters’ plights, considering humanity in all beings despite differences. The film masterfully blends these themes with its visually stunning fairy tale narrative.
The Creature Feature Reimagined
Guillermo del Toro has reimagined the classic creature feature genre.5 He crafted a captivating fantasy romance, The Shape of Water.5 It transcends genre roots with fairy tales and social commentary.5
Del Toro blended elements ingeniously, creating a visually enchanting experience.5 The love story between Elisa and the Amphibian Man challenges perceptions.5 It subverts traditional dynamics of monstrosity and humanity.5
The Shape of Water showcases del Toro’s skill in reimagining genres.5 It delivers a truly unique, unforgettable cinematic experience.5
The film’s visually stunning qualities are evident from the opening scene.5 It creates an ethereal atmosphere for the movie.5
The Amphibian Man, a reimagined Creature, has sleek coppery skin.5 His iridescent green streaks nod to classic monster movies.5
Doug Jones’ performance as the monster is likened to dance.5 He captures the non-human character’s pain and struggles beautifully.5
The script riffs on narratives, adding depth and familiarity.5 It draws from “Little Mermaid” and “Beauty and the Beast.”5
Set against the Cold War and Civil Rights backdrop.5 The film explores realities influencing characters’ lives and social context.5
The 1960s Baltimore setting contrasts the movie palace era.5 This rich tapestry enhances the film’s captivating ability.5
| Release Date | Runtime | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Dec 08, 20176 | 123 minutes6 | R6 |
The ensemble cast is talented, with Sally Hawkins and others.5 They contribute to the film’s character dynamics.5
With a budget of $19.5–20 million, it earned $196 million.1 The Shape of Water is a critical and commercial success.5
It cements its status as a modern cinematic masterpiece.5
Awards and Critical Acclaim
The Shape of Water received numerous accolades. It won the Academy Award for Best Picture, Best Director (Guillermo del Toro), Best Original Score, and Best Production Design.1 Sally Hawkins was nominated for Best Actress, and Richard Jenkins for Best Supporting Actor.
Oscar Wins and Nominations
The film’s critical acclaim is highlighted by its impressive 13 Oscar nominations at the 90th Academy Awards.1 Guillermo del Toro’s visionary direction was recognized as one of the year’s best.1 The Shape of Water was the second fantasy film to win Best Picture after The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003).1
Critical Reception and Box Office Success
Critics praised The Shape of Water’s visuals, performances, and thematic depth.7 It’s considered one of Guillermo Del Toro’s best works since “Pan’s Labyrinth,” with a captivating trailer, talented cast, and Alexandre Desplat’s score receiving commendations.7 The visual appeal, production design, costume design, and creature design were highly praised.7 Commercially, the film grossed over $195 million worldwide.1
Conclusion
The Shape of Water is a cinematic masterpiece. It showcases Guillermo del Toro’s prowess in fantasy. Blending fairy tales, monster movies, and social commentary, del Toro crafts a stunning story.
The visually captivating film celebrates human connection’s beauty. It upholds all living creatures’ dignity through emotional resonance. Captivating performances, immersive production design, and thematic depth earned widespread critical acclaim.
This modern classic fosters empathy and understanding. The Shape of Water stands as storytelling’s power to transcend boundaries.8910
FAQ
What is the plot of The Shape of Water (2017) movie?
The Shape of Water (2017) follows Elisa, a mute janitor. She discovers and forms a bond with an amphibious creature held captive in 1962 Baltimore. The movie takes place during the Cold War era.
Who directed The Shape of Water?
Acclaimed filmmaker Guillermo del Toro directed The Shape of Water. He is known for blending fantasy, horror, and social commentary.
What genres does The Shape of Water incorporate?
The Shape of Water blends fairy tales, monster movies, romance, drama, and social commentary. It creates a visually captivating and thematically rich experience.
Who are the main cast members of The Shape of Water?
Sally Hawkins stars as Elisa Esposito, the mute protagonist. Michael Shannon plays Colonel Strickland, the sadistic villain. Richard Jenkins portrays Giles, Elisa’s neighbor. Doug Jones plays the Amphibian Man.
What are the key themes explored in The Shape of Water?
Key themes include otherness, empathy, and the dignity of all creatures. The film challenges perceptions of monstrosity and humanity.
How has The Shape of Water been received critically?
Critics have widely acclaimed The Shape of Water’s genre blending, performances, and depth. It won the Academy Award for Best Picture among numerous awards.
What is unique about the production design and cinematography of The Shape of Water?
The production design and cinematography create a visually captivating, fantastical world. The sets are richly detailed, and the atmosphere is dreamlike.
How does The Shape of Water reinvent the classic creature feature genre?
By blending fairy tales, monster movies, and social commentary, del Toro reinvents the creature feature. He crafts a captivating fantasy romance transcending genre roots.
Source Links
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Shape_of_Water
- https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_shape_of_water_2017
- https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5580390/
- https://them0vieblog.com/2017/11/22/non-review-review-the-shape-of-water/
- https://time.com/4923582/the-shape-of-water-guillermo-del-toro-review/
- https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-reviews/shape-of-water-venice-2017-1034220/
- https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5580390/reviews/
- https://medium.com/the-blog-in-the-woods/the-shape-of-water-a-monster-of-a-love-story-1ab7e94db16e
- https://screenrant.com/shape-water-movie-ending-explained/
- https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/the-shape-of-water-2017
