Movie: The Shape of Water
Direction: Guillermo del Toro
Cast: Sally Hawkins, Michael Shannon, Richard Jenkins, Doug Jones, Michael Stuhlbarg, Octavia Spencer
Music: Alexandre Desplat
Cinematographer: Dan Laustsen
Editor: Sidney Wolinsky
Genre: Drama, Adventure
Rating: ∗∗∗∗
What is it about: It’s a fantasy drama which revolves around a mute helper (Sally Hawkins) and a humanoid-amphibian creature. Their unconventional relationship forms the crux of the story directed by Guillermo Del Toro.
Why it’s disappointing: This could stay put for this movie.
What to watch out for: There’s a great affinity to mystical creatures when it comes to director Guillermo, he has this penchant to present them in the most adorable way. Which one may find weird, but he has the nake to put it across. Right from Pan Labyrinth, Hellboy till “The Shape of Water”. They have one thing in common, their unique representation of character. It has a generous amount of spirit which makes you fall in love with it. Regardless of it being unconventional you want it to be true. The fairy tale laced in this story is tastefully infused. The screenplay was smooth like silk which flows through effortlessly.
Sally Hawkins as Elisa was brilliant. She exuberates tremendous amount of positivity. Her character being mute speaks more than anyone else in the film. Her affinity towards the creature is very natural and convincing. Her performance is highly attuned to its attire. A strong contender at the Academy Awards this year.
Michael Shannon displayed a great amount of evil and performed it with great diligence. Michael Stuhlbarg as Dr. Robert Hoffstetler did a commendable job. Octavia Spencer as Zelda in spite of being stereotyped she demands your attention with her strong screen presence.
The cinematography by Dan Laustsen was splendid, it was perfectly edited by Sidney Wolinsky. Music by Alexandre Desplat was refreshing. The VFX was seamless and enveloped by a subtle sound mix and design.
Verdict: Guillermo Del Toro, does it again with a flair giving a twist of his own to a fairy tale which one would find unconventional and lovely at the same time. Definitely worth a watch, don’t miss it for anything.
