The Shape of Water (2017) Review

Guillermo del Toro's 2017 film, The Shape of Water, is a visual and emotional feast that appeals to both film lovers and collectors. It’s set during the Cold War era, where the lines between reality and fantasy blur beautifully. Del Toro, known for his unique storytelling and striking visuals, presents a love story that’s both unusual and enchanting, making it a standout in his impressive filmography.

Plot Summary

The story unfolds in a high-security government laboratory during the early 1960s. Elisa Esposito, a mute cleaning woman, discovers a classified experiment: an amphibious creature captured from South America. As Elisa grows closer to this creature, what begins as curiosity blossoms into a deeper, more complex relationship. Meanwhile, the facility’s security leads, and the government is interested in dissecting the creature for its secrets, setting up a tense backdrop to the growing connection between Elisa and the creature.

Performances

Sally Hawkins delivers a powerful performance as Elisa, using her expressive eyes and body language to convey a spectrum of emotions without uttering a single word. Her portrayal is both vulnerable and resilient, inviting audiences to empathize with her character’s longing for connection. Doug Jones, a frequent del Toro collaborator, dons the creature suit and breathes life into a character that, although non-verbal, becomes a central figure of empathy and intrigue. Michael Shannon plays the antagonist, Strickland, with a fierce intensity that underscores the film’s tension, while Richard Jenkins and Octavia Spencer provide incredible support, adding layers of warmth and humor.

Direction and Craft

Del Toro’s direction is nothing short of meticulous. Each frame is a reflection to his love for storytelling through visuals. The film’s color palette, dominated by shades of green, blue, and teal, creates an immersive atmosphere that mirrors the underwater world. The production design is equally impressive, capturing the essence of the 1960s with a blend of realism and fantasy. Alexandre Desplat’s score complements the visuals perfectly, enhancing the emotional depth of the narrative without overshadowing it.

The film's practical effects, especially the creature design, are a highlight. Del Toro’s decision to use practical effects over CGI gives the film a tangible quality, making the creature's interactions with Elisa feel authentic and emotionally resonant. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect, from the creature's scales to the intricacies of the laboratory setting.

Collector's Verdict

For collectors, The Shape of Water is a rewarding acquisition, especially on Blu-ray. The visual and audio presentation is stunning, capturing the film's intricate details and lush score. While the film is commonly available, its packaging often includes insightful extras like behind-the-scenes features and director commentaries that enrich the viewing experience.

Del Toro fans will appreciate the opportunity to explore the creative process behind the film, from concept art to the practical effects that bring the creature to life. The Blu-ray edition, in particular, is the best format to own as it does justice to the film’s rich visuals and sound design.

Star Rating

With its unique blend of romance and fantasy, The Shape of Water deserves a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars. It’s a film that showcases the power of storytelling through visuals and a reflection to the strength of human (and non-human) connection. Its availability in a common format makes it accessible, but the quality of its presentation ensures it remains a valued piece in any collection.

In conclusion, The Shape of Water is more than just a film; it's an experience that lingers long after the credits roll. Its blend of genres and strong performances make it a must-have for any serious collector, and its presentation on Blu-ray ensures it can be enjoyed in all its beautifully detailed glory.