By Andrew Curtis
Guillermo Del Toro is a prolific filmmaker, and it shows in “The Shape of Water” that he has perfected his craft.
With this film, he has learned to make a pleasant film that doesn’t offend anyone or treat its characters as terrible people that you should never root for. In the past, Del Toro’s films would only appeal to a smaller audience. “The Shape of Water” has mass appeal.
The well-balanced cast–Sally Hawkins, Richard Jenkins, Octavia Spencer, Michael Stuhlbarg, Michael Shannon and Doug Jones–is a strong highlight for the film. Sally Hawkins, who plays a mute woman, specifically shines in the lead female role. Her emotions are so clear-cut, even without any dialogue. Look for her in awards season.
Hawkins played well against Spencer, who shows her great comedic timing in this picture.
Doug Jones and Sally Hawkins in The Shape of Water (2017)
The film used its $19 million budget effectively. The production design is beautifully done, and the special effects and makeup are top notch. The creature design for Doug Jones (who works with Guillermo often in his films) is great.
Though Doug Jones is the lead actor in this film, I felt that Michael Shannon was even stronger as the villain.
My only qualms with the film is that it was pretty predictable. I did still find the film completely entertaining. Some moments when I was watching this picture in the theater, I felt as though I was watching an old Hollywood classic, and it delighted me.
8.5/10
“The Shape of Water” is currently Playing at Regal Fredericksburg 14
