Guillermo Del Toro is back with another mesmerising film, 'The Shape of Water'
'The Shape of Water' tells the story of a top secret research facility in the 1960s where a lonely janitor forms a unique relationship with an amphibious creature that is being held in captivity. While the production design, the world, and creature creation of Mexican filmmaker Guillermo Del Toro’s films still remain top notch, this was one weird film all in typical Del Toro fashion.
Much like his previous films though, the audience questions the relevance of violence, and unnecessary gore. Michael Shannon’s character Richard drags a dying man across the ground after he is injured by a bullet wound to the cheek, and the reveal of how the sea creature and a mute woman managed to sleep together (which is, frankly, quite hilarious) is explored.
But narrative isn't the only reason one forks out money for a Del Toro movie ticket. The visuals are also stunning, and even when the film becomes gradually darker in its natural plot progression, Del Toro’s artistry holds true. The world and mythology Del Toro creates is why audiences keep coming back for more - for the sheer originality of his creatures, and diversity of the well-written characters.
'The Shape of Water' finds Del Toro at his best when it comes to characters and casting - especially Sally Hawkins’ mute character Elisa, which is deserving of much recognition.
Namely, Octavia Spencer steals the show, doing a fantastic job of playing the smart, strong, and independent woman (which Hollywood needs right now). And Michael Shannon's performance is exceptional in the role of "the bad guy" we typically know him to play.
The most disappointing thing about Guillermo Del Toro’s work however, is that he so far been unable to live up to the high standard and success of 'Pan’s Labyrinth'. There is something lacking in the usual magical realism of his latest films, as the 'love fixes all' trope isn’t enough anymore. While 'The Shape of Water' isn’t at any by any means groundbreaking, it is mesmerising, though uncomfortable enough for some moviegoers to walk out of the cinema the second we realised Elisa was in love!
While the New York Observe may not have gotten it right in labelling the film “a loopy, lunkheaded load of drivel”, it could in some ways be considered one of Del Toro’s strongest works yet. We expect the film will pass the 'Del Toro fans' test, but it unfortunately won't impress the majority.
'The Shape of Water' is in cinemas now.
