The Shape of Water (2017)
Directed by: Guillermo del
Toro
Starring: Sally Hawkins,
Doug Jones, Michael Shannon, Octavia Spencer, Richard Jenkins
Genre: Fantasy, Romance,
Drama
Release Date: December 1,
2017
Introduction: A Unique Fairy Tale
The Shape of Water is a
visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that transcends the
conventional boundaries of storytelling. Directed by Guillermo del Toro, this
fairy tale for adults intertwines elements of fantasy and romance against the
backdrop of the Cold War era. The film explores themes of love, acceptance, and
the power of connection, challenging societal norms and prejudices through the
lens of an unconventional love story.
Setting the Scene: A Cold
War America
1. The World of 1962
The film is set in
Baltimore during the height of the Cold War, a time marked by fear, mistrust,
and secrecy. The atmosphere is thick with tension, mirroring the struggles
faced by the characters. The story unfolds in a government laboratory where the
protagonist, Elisa Esposito (Sally Hawkins), works as a mute janitor.
2. Elisa’s Life
Elisa lives a solitary
life, marked by her inability to speak and her mundane job. She communicates
through sign language, finding solace in her routine and the companionship of
her neighbor, Giles (Richard Jenkins), an aspiring artist. Despite her quiet
existence, Elisa harbors a deep yearning for connection and love, feeling
isolated in a world that often overlooks her.
The Encounter: A Mysterious
Creature
1. The Amphibian Man
Elisa’s life takes a
dramatic turn when she discovers a mysterious creature (Doug Jones) being held
captive in the laboratory. Dubbed the "Amphibian Man," the creature
is an aquatic being captured from the Amazon River. Elisa is immediately drawn
to him, sensing a connection that transcends language and societal barriers.
2. A Forbidden Bond
As Elisa spends more time
with the Amphibian Man, a profound bond develops between them. Through their
silent communication, they share moments of intimacy and understanding,
showcasing the power of love that goes beyond spoken words. Their relationship
becomes a refuge from the harsh realities of the outside world, highlighting
the theme of connection in the face of adversity.
The Antagonists: Fear and Control
1. Strickland’s Threat
The main antagonist,
Colonel Richard Strickland (Michael Shannon), embodies the oppressive forces at
play. Strickland is a ruthless government agent determined to exploit the
creature for military purposes, viewing it as a mere specimen rather than a
sentient being. His brutal treatment of the Amphibian Man contrasts sharply
with Elisa’s compassionate approach, highlighting the struggle between
exploitation and empathy.
2. Societal Prejudice
The film also explores
themes of societal prejudice and the fear of the "other." The
Amphibian Man represents not only a physical difference but also the idea of
acceptance beyond conventional norms. Elisa, a mute woman, and the creature, a
non-human being, both face marginalization and judgment from society,
emphasizing the film’s critique of prejudice based on appearance and ability.
The Escape: Love Against
All Odds
1. A Plan to Rescue
When Elisa learns of the
government’s plans to dissect the Amphibian Man, she devises a daring plan to
rescue him. With the help of Giles and her co-worker, Zelda (Octavia Spencer),
they orchestrate a daring escape that takes them through the dark underbelly of
the laboratory. The tension builds as they navigate the obstacles that stand in
the way of their love.
2. The Journey of
Liberation
Elisa’s determination to
save the Amphibian Man serves as a powerful testament to the lengths one will
go for love. The film beautifully captures the essence of sacrifice, as Elisa
risks everything to ensure the creature’s freedom. Their journey symbolizes the
struggle against societal constraints and the pursuit of true happiness.
The Climax: Love and Sacrifice
1. The Final Confrontation
In a gripping climax,
Strickland discovers Elisa's plan and confronts her in a tense showdown. The
scene is fraught with emotion, as the stakes reach their peak. Elisa must
confront her own fears and the societal norms that threaten to tear them apart.
The fight for love culminates in a heart-wrenching moment, forcing both
characters to face the consequences of their choices.
2. The Power of Choice
Elisa’s choice to embrace
love, even in the face of danger, underscores the film’s central message about
the transformative power of connection. The climax is not just a physical
battle; it represents the struggle between love and societal expectations,
ultimately leading to a cathartic resolution that reaffirms the value of
compassion and acceptance.
The Conclusion: A
Bittersweet Resolution
1. The Aftermath
In the aftermath of the
confrontation, Elisa and the Amphibian Man escape to a secluded location where
they can be free from societal judgment. The film’s conclusion offers a
poignant reflection on the nature of love and sacrifice. Their relationship
blossoms in a world untouched by prejudice, allowing them to fully embrace
their identities and the love they share.
2. The Final Scene
The film ends on a
bittersweet note, with Elisa submerged in water, symbolizing her transformation
and acceptance of her identity. The closing moments invite viewers to ponder
the nature of love, identity, and what it means to be truly alive. The final line,
"I believe," serves as a powerful affirmation of hope, love, and the
enduring nature of connection.
Themes and Messages: Love
Beyond Boundaries
The Shape of Water is rich
with themes that resonate deeply with audiences, prompting reflection on love,
acceptance, and the human experience.
1. The Power of Connection
At its core, the film
emphasizes the importance of connection and understanding in a world filled
with division and prejudice. Elisa’s relationship with the Amphibian Man
transcends traditional boundaries, highlighting the transformative power of
love to overcome societal constraints.
2. Acceptance of the
"Other"
The film beautifully
explores the concept of acceptance, showcasing how love can flourish in
unexpected forms. Both Elisa and the Amphibian Man represent marginalized
identities, challenging viewers to reconsider their perceptions of what
constitutes love and companionship.
3. The Struggle Against
Oppression
The narrative also serves
as a critique of oppressive systems that seek to control and exploit those who
are different. Strickland’s character embodies the destructive forces of fear
and control, emphasizing the need for empathy and compassion in the face of
adversity.
Cinematic Brilliance: Guillermo del Toro’s Vision
Guillermo del Toro’s
direction shines through in every aspect of The Shape of Water. His unique
blend of fantasy and realism creates a visually stunning film that immerses
viewers in a world of magic and wonder. The cinematography by Dan Laustsen
captures the ethereal beauty of the underwater scenes and the gritty reality of
1960s America.
The film’s score, composed
by Alexandre Desplat, enhances the emotional depth of the narrative, weaving a
haunting melody that lingers long after the credits roll. The performances of
the cast, particularly Sally Hawkins as Elisa, are nothing short of
extraordinary. Hawkins conveys a range of emotions without uttering a single
word, demonstrating the power of non-verbal communication in conveying love and
vulnerability.
Conclusion: A Modern Fairy
Tale
The Shape of Water is more
than just a love story; it is a profound exploration of connection, acceptance,
and the beauty of the unconventional. Guillermo del Toro’s masterful
storytelling, combined with stellar performances and stunning visuals, creates
a cinematic experience that lingers in the heart and mind.
The film challenges audiences to reconsider their definitions of love and humanity, reminding us that true connection can be found in the most unexpected places. As Elisa and the Amphibian Man embrace their love against all odds, The Shape of Water stands as a timeless testament to the power of love to transcend boundaries and defy societal expectations.
