A review of the 2017 film “The Shape of Water” is a critical assessment of its merits, such as its storytelling, acting, and technical aspects. For instance, a reviewer might analyze the film’s unique blend of fantasy and romance, praise the performances of Sally Hawkins and Doug Jones, and discuss the film’s stunning visuals and haunting score.
Reviews of films like “The Shape of Water” play a significant role in informing audiences about the quality of a film and guiding their decision on whether or not to see it. They can also provide valuable insights into the creative process behind the film, offering a deeper understanding of the director’s vision, the actors’ performances, and the technical achievements.
Historically, film reviews have been published in newspapers, magazines, and online platforms, but with the advent of social media, anyone can share their thoughts on films, making the reviewing process more democratic and accessible.
Review
A review of the 2017 film “The Shape of Water” examines several key aspects that contribute to its overall quality and impact. These aspects include:
- Storytelling
- Characters
- Acting
- Directing
- Cinematography
- Production Design
- Music
- Editing
Each of these aspects plays a crucial role in shaping the film’s unique atmosphere, narrative flow, and emotional resonance. The compelling storytelling, for instance, immerses the audience in a fantastical yet believable world, while the superb acting brings the characters to life with depth and nuance. The film’s stunning visuals, masterful directing, and haunting score further enhance the overall experience, creating a film that is both visually captivating and emotionally affecting.
Storytelling
Storytelling is a critical component of any film review, as it provides a framework for analyzing and evaluating the film’s narrative structure, character development, and overall impact.
In the case of “The Shape of Water”, the storytelling is particularly noteworthy for its ability to blend fantasy and romance in a way that is both believable and emotionally resonant. The film’s central love story between a mute cleaning woman and a fish-like creature is both unconventional and deeply moving, and it is the film’s well-crafted storytelling that makes this unlikely romance so believable.
The film’s director, Guillermo del Toro, uses a variety of storytelling techniques to create a rich and immersive world for his characters. He employs flashbacks to reveal the backstory of the creature, and he uses symbolism and metaphor to create a sense of wonder and mystery. The film’s pacing is also expertly controlled, building to a that is both emotionally satisfying and visually stunning.
Characters
The characters in “The Shape of Water” are critical to the film’s success. They are complex and well-developed, and their relationships with each other are both believable and emotionally resonant. The film’s central love story between Elisa Esposito, a mute cleaning woman, and the Amphibian Man, a fish-like creature, is particularly well-crafted. The two characters are from very different worlds, but they are drawn to each other’s kindness and compassion.
The supporting characters are equally well-developed. Giles, Elisa’s neighbor, is a closeted gay man who becomes her confidant and helps her to accept her feelings for the Amphibian Man. Zelda Fuller, Elisa’s co-worker, is a strong and independent woman who provides comic relief and helps to keep Elisa grounded. Richard Strickland, the film’s villain, is a cruel and sadistic man who represents the forces of intolerance and oppression.
The characters in “The Shape of Water” are more than just plot devices. They are fully realized individuals with their own motivations and desires. Their interactions with each other drive the story forward and create a rich and complex emotional landscape. The film’s success is due in large part to the strength of its characters.
Acting
The acting in “The Shape of Water” is universally praised for its excellence. The performances of the main cast, particularly Sally Hawkins and Doug Jones, are nothing short of extraordinary. Hawkins brings a quiet strength and vulnerability to the role of Elisa Esposito, a mute cleaning woman who falls in love with the Amphibian Man. Jones gives a tour-de-force performance as the Amphibian Man, a creature who is both physically and emotionally scarred. His performance is both heartbreaking and awe-inspiring.
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Range of Emotion
The actors in “The Shape of Water” are able to convey a wide range of emotions, from love and compassion to fear and anger. They do this through their facial expressions, body language, and vocal performances. -
Physicality
The actors in “The Shape of Water” use their bodies to tell the story. They move with grace and precision, and they use their physicality to create a sense of realism and authenticity. -
Chemistry
The actors in “The Shape of Water” have great chemistry with each other. They are able to create a sense of intimacy and connection, which makes their performances even more believable. -
Accent and Dialect
The actors in “The Shape of Water” use their accents and dialects to create distinct and memorable characters. Sally Hawkins’ performance as Elisa Esposito is particularly noteworthy for her use of a Baltimore accent.
The acting in “The Shape of Water” is a master class in the art of performance. The actors bring their characters to life with such skill and dedication that it is impossible to look away. Their performances are a major reason why the film is so successful.
Directing
Guillermo del Toro’s masterful directing is a critical component of the success of “The Shape of Water”. Del Toro uses a variety of techniques to create a film that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. His use of lighting, camera angles, and editing create a sense of atmosphere and mood that is essential to the film’s success.
For example, del Toro uses dark and shadowy lighting to create a sense of mystery and suspense. He also uses close-up shots to create a sense of intimacy between the characters. And he uses slow-motion photography to create a sense of wonder and awe.
Del Toro’s directing is also evident in the film’s performances. He elicits nuanced and powerful performances from his cast, particularly Sally Hawkins and Doug Jones. Hawkins brings a quiet strength and vulnerability to the role of Elisa Esposito, and Jones gives a tour-de-force performance as the Amphibian Man.
Del Toro’s directing is a master class in the art of filmmaking. His use of lighting, camera angles, editing, and performance creates a film that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. “The Shape of Water” is a testament to del Toro’s skill as a director.
Cinematography
Cinematography is the art of making motion pictures, and it plays a critical role in the overall quality and impact of a film. In the case of “The Shape of Water”, the cinematography is particularly noteworthy for its ability to create a visually stunning and emotionally resonant world for the characters.
The film’s cinematographer, Dan Laustsen, uses a variety of techniques to create a unique and memorable visual aesthetic. For example, he uses dark and shadowy lighting to create a sense of mystery and suspense, and he uses close-up shots to create a sense of intimacy between the characters. He also uses a variety of camera angles to create a sense of tension and unease.
The cinematography in “The Shape of Water” is more than just a technical achievement. It is an integral part of the film’s storytelling, and it helps to create a truly immersive experience for the viewer. For example, the film’s use of water imagery is a powerful visual metaphor for the film’s themes of love, acceptance, and transformation.
The cinematography in “The Shape of Water” is a master class in the art of filmmaking. It is a critical component of the film’s success, and it helps to create a film that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.
Production Design
Production design is a critical element of any film review, as it encompasses the visual aspects of the film, including the sets, costumes, props, and lighting. In the case of “The Shape of Water”, the production design is particularly noteworthy for its ability to create a unique and memorable world for the characters.
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Set Design
The film’s sets are meticulously designed to create a sense of time and place. The film is set in Baltimore in the 1960s, and the sets recreate the look and feel of the era. For example, the film’s opening scene is set in a movie theater, and the set is designed to look like a real movie theater from the 1960s. -
Costume Design
The film’s costumes are also meticulously designed to create a sense of time and place. The costumes are designed to reflect the characters’ personalities and social status. For example, Elisa Esposito, the film’s protagonist, is a cleaning woman, and her costumes are simple and practical. In contrast, Richard Strickland, the film’s villain, is a government agent, and his costumes are more formal and tailored. -
Prop Design
The film’s props are also meticulously designed to create a sense of time and place. The props are designed to look like real objects from the 1960s. For example, the film’s characters use typewriters and rotary phones, which were common objects in the 1960s. -
Lighting Design
The film’s lighting is also meticulously designed to create a sense of time and place. The lighting is used to create a variety of moods and atmospheres. For example, the film’s opening scene is set in a dark and shadowy movie theater, which creates a sense of mystery and suspense.
The production design of “The Shape of Water” is a master class in the art of filmmaking. It is a critical component of the film’s success, and it helps to create a film that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.
Music
Music plays a critical role in “The Shape of Water”, contributing significantly to the film’s overall atmosphere, emotional impact, and storytelling. Composer Alexandre Desplat creates a haunting and evocative score that perfectly complements the film’s visuals and themes.
The music in “The Shape of Water” is both beautiful and unsettling, reflecting the film’s own unique blend of fantasy and romance. The score features a mix of orchestral and electronic elements, creating a rich and textured soundscape that immerses the viewer in the film’s world. Desplat’s use of leitmotifs also helps to develop the film’s characters and themes, creating a cohesive and emotionally resonant experience.
One of the most striking examples of the music’s power in “The Shape of Water” is the use of the song “La Javanaise” by Serge Gainsbourg. The song is played several times throughout the film, most notably during a scene where Elisa and the Amphibian Man share a passionate kiss. The song’s lyrics, which speak of love and longing, perfectly encapsulate the film’s central romance.
The music in “The Shape of Water” is not just a background element. It is an integral part of the film’s storytelling, helping to create a truly immersive and emotionally resonant experience. Desplat’s score is a masterclass in film composition, and it is one of the key reasons why “The Shape of Water” is such a successful film.
Editing
Editing plays a crucial role in shaping the narrative, pacing, and overall impact of “The Shape of Water”. The editor’s skillful assembly of shots, scenes, and sequences creates a cohesive and emotionally resonant cinematic experience.
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Narrative Flow
The editor ensures a smooth and logical progression of events, maintaining the film’s narrative flow. This involves selecting and arranging shots to create a coherent and engaging story.
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Pacing
Editing controls the film’s pace, alternating between fast-paced action sequences and slower, more contemplative moments. This pacing helps build tension, suspense, and emotional impact.
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Emotional Impact
The editor uses techniques like cutting on action, juxtaposing shots, and creating rhythmic montages to evoke specific emotions in the viewer. These techniques enhance the film’s emotional resonance and leave a lasting impression.
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Technical Precision
Editing involves meticulous attention to detail, ensuring seamless transitions between shots and scenes. The editor’s technical skills contribute to the film’s overall polish and professionalism.
The editing of “The Shape of Water” is a masterclass in cinematic storytelling. The editor’s masterful handling of narrative flow, pacing, emotional impact, and technical precision elevates the film to a truly immersive and emotionally resonant experience.
FAQs about Review
This FAQ section addresses common queries and provides clarifications about the review of the 2017 film “The Shape of Water”.
Question 1: What aspects of the film are covered in the review?
Answer: The review examines various aspects of the film, including its storytelling, characters, acting, directing, cinematography, production design, music, and editing.
Question 2: What makes the film’s storytelling unique?
Answer: The film’s storytelling stands out for its ability to blend fantasy and romance in a believable and emotionally resonant way.
Question 3: Which performance is particularly praised in the review?
Answer: Sally Hawkins’ performance as Elisa Esposito, a mute cleaning woman, is widely lauded for its quiet strength and vulnerability.
Question 4: How does the cinematography contribute to the film’s atmosphere?
Answer: The film’s cinematography uses lighting, camera angles, and editing to create a visually stunning and emotionally resonant world.
Question 5: What is the significance of music in “The Shape of Water”?
Answer: The film’s score, composed by Alexandre Desplat, is a haunting and evocative blend of orchestral and electronic elements that enhances the film’s atmosphere and emotional impact.
Question 6: How does editing contribute to the film’s narrative?
Answer: The film’s editing skillfully controls narrative flow, pacing, and emotional impact, creating a cohesive and immersive cinematic experience.
In summary, these FAQs provide insights into the key aspects of “Review: The Shape of Water (2017)”, highlighting the film’s strengths and offering a deeper understanding of its critical reception.
This exploration of the film’s various elements sets the stage for further discussion and analysis in the following sections.
Tips on Writing a Compelling Review
This tips section provides practical guidance and strategies for crafting an effective review of the 2017 film “The Shape of Water”.
Tip 1: Establish a Clear Thesis
Begin your review with a concise statement that summarizes your overall evaluation of the film. This thesis will serve as the foundation for your subsequent analysis.
Tip 2: Provide Context and Background
Familiarize readers with the film’s basic information, including its genre, director, cast, and any relevant production details. This context helps orient your audience.
Tip 3: Analyze Key Aspects of the Film
Discuss the film’s strengths and weaknesses in various aspects, such as storytelling, characters, acting, cinematography, and music. Use specific examples and evidence from the film to support your analysis.
Tip 4: Explore Themes and Symbolism
Identify and interpret the underlying themes and symbols present in the film. Explain how these elements contribute to the film’s overall meaning and impact.
Tip 5: Discuss Impact and Relevance
Consider the film’s emotional impact on you and its relevance to broader social or cultural issues. Share your insights on how the film resonates with you and why it matters.
Tip 6: Compare and Contrast
Draw comparisons or contrasts between “The Shape of Water” and other similar films or works of art. This helps provide a broader perspective and demonstrate your knowledge of the genre.
Tip 7: Use Vivid Language and Examples
Employ descriptive language and specific examples to illustrate your points. This helps bring your review to life and engage your readers.
Tip 8: Proofread Carefully
Ensure that your review is free of errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation. A well-written and polished review reflects your credibility and professionalism.
By following these tips, you can write a comprehensive and insightful review that showcases your critical thinking skills and appreciation for the film “The Shape of Water”.
These tips will empower you to effectively analyze and convey your thoughts on the film, preparing you for the final section where we explore the film’s lasting impact and legacy.
Conclusion
Our exploration of “Review: The Shape of Water (2017)” reveals the film’s strengths in storytelling, character development, and technical execution. The film’s unique blend of fantasy and romance resonated with audiences, and its exploration of themes like acceptance, diversity, and overcoming adversity left a lasting impact.
Key points from the review include:1. The film’s central love story between a mute cleaning woman and a fish-like creature is both unconventional and deeply moving, showcasing the power of love to transcend physical and societal boundaries.2. Guillermo del Toro’s masterful direction and the superb performances of Sally Hawkins and Doug Jones bring the characters to life with depth and nuance, creating a rich emotional tapestry.3. The film’s stunning visuals, haunting score, and meticulous attention to detail immerse viewers in a fantastical yet believable world, enhancing the film’s overall impact and resonance.
Ultimately, “The Shape of Water” serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, love, compassion, and acceptance can prevail. Its enduring message and artistic excellence continue to inspire and captivate audiences, solidifying its place as a modern cinematic masterpiece.