The Shape of Water (2017): Submerged in Beauty With Tender Currents and Deep Emotions

Guillermo del Toro's "The Shape of Water" is a cinematic masterpiece that effortlessly blends fantasy, romance, and drama into a visually stunning and emotional experience. Set against the backdrop of Cold War-era America, the film weaves a unique narrative that challenges conventions and embraces the beauty of otherness.

The story revolves around Elisa (Sally Hawkins), a mute and lonely woman working as a cleaning lady in a high-security government laboratory. Her world takes an unexpected turn when she discovers a mysterious aquatic creature (Doug Jones) held captive in the facility. As she forms a profound and tender connection with the creature, a forbidden romance blooms between them, defying societal norms and prejudices.

Sally Hawkins delivers a remarkable performance as Elisa, communicating a wide range of emotions without uttering a single word. Her expressive face and body language bring authenticity to the character. Doug Jones, hidden beneath layers of prosthetics, brings the creature to life beautifully. The supporting cast shines as well, with Michael Shannon playing the role of the antagonist, Richard Strickland, with chilling intensity. Octavia Spencer and Richard Jenkins offer heartwarming performances as Elisa's friends, adding to the film's emotional core.

Del Toro's visionary direction infuses the film with a dreamlike quality, making every scene a visual marvel. The aquatic world is depicted in mesmerizing detail, with the laboratory's green-tinted environment contrasting the warm and intimate spaces Elisa inhabits. The film's color palette and lighting choices create a seamless blend of reality and fantasy. It is a story about love, acceptance, and finding beauty in the unconventional. Also, the film's musical score, composed by Alexandre Desplat, beautifully complements the visuals and emotions.

This film is a testament to the magic of cinema and the limitless possibilities of storytelling. 120 mins run by and there are so many emotions that you go through.

I rate it 4.5 out of 5.

Direction Rating: 1/1

Cinematography Rating: 1/1

Story Rating: 0.75/1

Acting Rating: 1/1

Film Score Rating: 0.75/1

IMDB Link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5580390/

Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XFYWazblaUA

Genre: Fantasy, Romance, Drama