The Shape of Water

3

ryecaMar 11, 2018

Not very good. Cliche story, boring, one-dimensional characters, cartoonish acting. Also, aren't we past the whole steam-punk, Bioshock aesthetic yet? Here is every Guillermo Del Toro movie that gets acclaim: Female protagonist faces typicalNot very good. Cliche story, boring, one-dimensional characters, cartoonish acting. Also, aren't we past the whole steam-punk, Bioshock aesthetic yet? Here is every Guillermo Del Toro movie that gets acclaim: Female protagonist faces typical evil in a fantasy world punctuated by moments of gore. Also, the attempts at humor are lame.… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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3

RealMuthaFMar 11, 2018

To be honest, the whole premise of a love story between a woman and some weird merman seemed unattractive to me to begin with, but the Oscars did their advertising job in the end. And my intuition did not fail, Shape of Water is boring,To be honest, the whole premise of a love story between a woman and some weird merman seemed unattractive to me to begin with, but the Oscars did their advertising job in the end. And my intuition did not fail, Shape of Water is boring, weird, and overly-sweet all at the same time.

To start with the good things - visually it's well-filmed and the 60's are stylishly presented. It's nothing ground-breaking, but overall solid. The second good aspect are the actors, everyone plays their roles convincingly. I would point out Michael Shannon in particular, he proved that he can be a great antagonist before, and he's done it again, I was actually rooting for his character throughout.

However, the story is a dull bizarre mess. To begin with, it is overwhelmingly unoriginal - the sheepish sugar-sweet lonely protagonist, the captive creature that is tortured instead of being communicated with, the army man antagonist. The movie is just a drag, and everything is as predictable as it can be.

Now I can buy the ancient overused trope about the protagonist empathizing to some captive intelligent creature, but explicitly having sex with it? And yeah, there's actually plenty of unnecessary nudity (Shannon shags his wife. Ok.) and allusions to the creature's penis. Well, whatever gets you that Oscar, I guess. I mean I'm no prune, but in my opinion nudity is justified when it helps to convey some point and flesh out the story. But this, this just looks like Del Toro's sick creepy sexual fantasies brought to life. Sorry, but my suspension of disbelief just doesn't cover the "woman gets turned on by slippery scaly aquatic monster" thing. What's your next move, Del Toro, a movie about furries?

To add to that, there's an absolutely redundant meaningless side plot about a gay old man failing to hook up with another guy, and couple of scenes dedicated to showing that Shannon's character has a sexual fetish for silence. That's when you thought this movie couldn' get any more creepy.

And since we're at it, I would really question how realistic it is that some random cleaners are allowed access to classified assets in a top-secret research facility. There's also an uncomfortably stereotypical black woman who overcompensates for the muteness of the main character, never managing to finally shut the hell up. Also at one point the movie has a musical number in it, like in some Disney flick. That was also the moment when my facepalm intensity peaked. Yeah, and isn't this merman's design very reminiscent of some sidekick of Hellboy in Del Toro's own movie? Pathetic.

So, as they say, best movie my ass. I've recently also watched "Three Billboards...", and it's miles ahead than this trash.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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8

Bheath2002Mar 11, 2018

Absolutely gorgeous. Shot beautifully amazing characters brilliant twist on the classic fairytale model. A few things that took me out if it occasionally with a bit too much nudity. Almost Perfect.

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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8

CineAutoctonoJan 20, 2018

"The Shape of Water" was a surprising and spectacular film, both the characters and the story were spectacular. Guillermo del Toro did a great work again from "Pan's Labyrinth" fascinating and spectacular. A surprising fable.

3 of 8 users found this helpful35

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10

vinicius96Mar 9, 2018

This movie is a masterpiece, the best "Best Picture" winner of the decade. Sally was PERFECT!

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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6

jgzegerMar 9, 2018

A plain looking mute woman finds love with a fish. Who will the children look like?

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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7

dragionnatsu66Jan 10, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Really good acting, Really good directing, Beautiful score, Excellent cinematography but with A mediocre story and some cheesy dialogue scenes. If you are someone who is impressed with the technical aspects of film-making, you'll love it . Or If you're like me and you find the story where a woman, prison breaks a fish creature and hides it in her home , then proceeds to have coitus with 'IT', and you find that a bit weird, then I guess you can still appreciate the film for being visually stunning- 7/10… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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2

qamasterMar 9, 2018

a good, finely felt drama. deeply thought out and interesting characters. But for some reason every minute of watching this movie becomes all the more dreary and gradually there is such a thought - when this tediousness finally ends?

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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9

ODMAN03Mar 8, 2018

I really like this movie. It has great acting, great characters (for the most part) and amazing CGI. The only things I didn't like were some characters (few) and that it isn't really a movie I would see myself watching many times. I haveI really like this movie. It has great acting, great characters (for the most part) and amazing CGI. The only things I didn't like were some characters (few) and that it isn't really a movie I would see myself watching many times. I have heard people that thought that the ending was a little cliche and bad, and even if I didn't think that, I still acknowledge it.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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8

MarvelJoeMar 7, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A mute woman bangs with a fish that stands like a human? Guillermo del Toro has a great taste in fanfictions. Turns out she has gills! Now that's a great sci-fi fantasy movie right there.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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5

Tom_BombadilMar 7, 2018

La película estaba bien mientras me encontraba mirando. Digo... consiguió mantenerme atento por dos horas, por lo menos. Pero una vez que terminó y comencé a pensar en lo que acababa de ver, me costaba recordar cosas que NO fueran mediocres.La película estaba bien mientras me encontraba mirando. Digo... consiguió mantenerme atento por dos horas, por lo menos. Pero una vez que terminó y comencé a pensar en lo que acababa de ver, me costaba recordar cosas que NO fueran mediocres. Del Toro tira y tira escenas en la cinta final y muchas de ellas no sirven para nada (en general todas las líneas argumentales secundarias son omitibles), y además se enfrasca en convenir un mensaje social que es demasiado indiscreto como para dejar pensando al espectador por sí mismo. El último acto es casi en su totalidad baratija hollywoodense: si tu trama requiere que todos lo personajes actúen como idiotas para que tu final tenga la más mínima gracia, entonces algo mal estás haciendo. Las líneas finales son cursilería digna de telenovela para adelescentes. Ignoren todo eso.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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0

UlldieMar 7, 2018

Worse film I have ever went.
I must say the actors were ok. Image was ok...
But the story was so flat... Also the rasism problem, homosexual and a sex with fish?! Srsly.... I thought it is a fantasy movie not a propaganda story... Sorry notWorse film I have ever went.
I must say the actors were ok. Image was ok...
But the story was so flat...
Also the rasism problem, homosexual and a sex with fish?! Srsly....
I thought it is a fantasy movie not a propaganda story...
Sorry not for my. Waste of time and money.… Expand

5 of 10 users found this helpful55

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10

ejpMar 6, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Never have I been so captivated by a movie. I think it is a classic. I suppose there are weaknesses, but it is easy for me to forgive them. After all, in what other fairy tale does a kiss turn the heroine into a frog? It is so complex and so well done, words fail me. I loved Michael Shannon's work as the villain of the piece.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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8

AliashhadiMar 6, 2018

I'm not really fan this kind of movie but I like this(shape of water). It takes us to own world and dark world where love is most powerful thing.

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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9

annbdMar 6, 2018

'The shape of water' is one metaphorical view for love, free and infinite, sometimes unlogical in the eyes of some, but clear to others. You find someone like you, someone, who understands and see the world as you and then you share your'The shape of water' is one metaphorical view for love, free and infinite, sometimes unlogical in the eyes of some, but clear to others. You find someone like you, someone, who understands and see the world as you and then you share your lifes forever. In my opinion the script and the soundtracks could be better, but the cinematography was great. Overall a movie, that deserves completely it's many received awards! Honestly, I can justify the low rating and negative reviews, because people are accustomed to drama, exaggeration, many varied events and fun situations, that are often missing in real life.… Expand

2 of 8 users found this helpful26

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8

MaxKirkMar 5, 2018

To call this movie original is an understatement. This is a one of kind movie with great performances from both the leading actress and supporting roles. To be honest, I didn't quite know how to rate this movie after I had seen it because ofTo call this movie original is an understatement. This is a one of kind movie with great performances from both the leading actress and supporting roles. To be honest, I didn't quite know how to rate this movie after I had seen it because of the simple reason that it is extremely weird in an artsy and beautiful way. But after I have done some thinking I would say that this movie is an odd masterpiece. The acting is great, the cinematography is top notch and the score was mind-boggling. The movie seems like a regular love story, but there is something way deeper here, something with the shape of water.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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0

yatesyMar 4, 2018

The only film that I've paid to watch where I walked out halfway through to my dismay. After hearing The Shape of Water won Best Picture at the Oscars I felt compelled to leave a short review about this "film". I like Del Toro's work, butThe only film that I've paid to watch where I walked out halfway through to my dismay. After hearing The Shape of Water won Best Picture at the Oscars I felt compelled to leave a short review about this "film". I like Del Toro's work, but words can't do justice just how awful this film was. Truly in every sense of the word the plot is bizarre and not in a good why like 'Pans Labyrinth' it was BAD, BAD, BAD! Troll 2 was a better piece of film making - I'm not even joking. Avoid at all costs.… Expand

5 of 9 users found this helpful54

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8

ozymandias79Jan 8, 2018

A quality film. Simple plot. Good acting. Great production design. Definitely has a "Rapture" feel. It's very unfortunate that project wasn't green lit for Del Toro. Although, maybe The Shape of Water will have some executives re-thinking.A quality film. Simple plot. Good acting. Great production design. Definitely has a "Rapture" feel. It's very unfortunate that project wasn't green lit for Del Toro. Although, maybe The Shape of Water will have some executives re-thinking.

Best film at the oscars! Come on, greenlight Bioshock!!!… Expand

5 of 10 users found this helpful55

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7

DubeauMar 4, 2018

This a love movie, but also an allegory about isolation and loneliness. The story has one fantastic element, but apart that everything feels almost grounded. Really love the actors in this movie. They were amazing. The creature effects areThis a love movie, but also an allegory about isolation and loneliness. The story has one fantastic element, but apart that everything feels almost grounded. Really love the actors in this movie. They were amazing. The creature effects are spot on. Now for the parts I didn't like...the creature felt like recycling the idea of Abe in Hellboy. At least it's in another context and time frame. The pace of the movie is slow, so I got really bored in the middle of the movie and I skipped a lot after that. I think the editing and the length could have been a bit more dynamic. The music is also an era style of music that were found in old musical movies. I wasn't very found of it, but that depends of your taste in the genre. Still, it was an interesting movie and a very nice tale. I give it a 75%. Go see it for the actors and their skills in that movie.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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9

bigscreen454Mar 4, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. If you’re not sure what The Shape of Water is about by just watching the trailer, and if you’re confused because water doesn’t have a shape when it comes down to it, you’re not the only one. Basically, it is an R-rated girlish dream love story about a mute janitor who falls in love with a mutant fish-man.

It is a fairy tale like The Little Mermaid except the roles are reversed. The man of the water meets the woman of the land. It is the ultimate fish out of water tale because to keep him alive she must logically, keep him in a bathtub. Ironically, this film is also a great resource for how to keep a fish alive in a tub for over a week.

This very magical film becomes interesting when the character who we will affectionately call “Fish-Jesus” performs an act of God, healing a bald man of male pattern baldness by simply touching the top of his head. Insta-hair. This was hilarious!

The Shape of Water is a film that I see could be part of a Shark Week special titled ‘Sleeping With Sharks’ on the next Shark Week. It is a romance we have not yet seen on the big screen. A love story that Director Guilermo Del Toro says was inspired by the 1960s character Gill-man from the film Creature from the Black Lagoon. Some may say she “goes overboard”, or “went off the deep end” when she falls in love with the fish-man.

Spoiler: There is a scene where water starts falling from the ceiling of the Theatre which I will not spoil but because of this film, the next time I am in the theatre and a water drops fall from the ceiling I am going to think twice. “Tut tut it looks like rain.” -In the words of the animated iconic character Pooh Bear. But very positively for The Shape of Water, the award nominations are raining down. The film leads all films with 13 Oscar Nominations.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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0

Idiota150Mar 3, 2018

Silly story about sex-deprived mute woman who can only be pleasured by a fish. Not fun, just sick.

5 of 11 users found this helpful56

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10

blossomMar 2, 2018

The only negative thing I have to say is that it never came to a theatre near me so I had to watch it at home.
This movie was gorgeous and it's everything I've come to expect from Guillermo del Toro. I love anything monster-related and no oneThe only negative thing I have to say is that it never came to a theatre near me so I had to watch it at home.
This movie was gorgeous and it's everything I've come to expect from Guillermo del Toro. I love anything monster-related and no one tells those stories better right now.

I also can't believe a scene about an egg almost made me cry, I mean, come on! I also was very happy to see a disabled protagonist in this movie. I think ASL is beautiful and I hope to see more movies feature characters in films who communicate in ASL. The way the movie handled Elisa's communicating, between subtitles and characters who would verbally interpret what she was signing, was incredibly well done. The only thing that could have made this better, in my opinion, and, don't get me wrong, Sally Hawkins is fantastic in the role, but I would really have loved if a mute actress had been given the opportunity to play Elisa.… Expand

1 of 4 users found this helpful13

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5

ThylbanusMar 2, 2018

While this is by far Guillermo Del Toro's worst film, it still isn't bad overall by normal standards.

Visually it is typical Del Toro. It is engaging and charming. Clever use of framing, setting, even costumes shows a keen eye and clearWhile this is by far Guillermo Del Toro's worst film, it still isn't bad overall by normal standards.

Visually it is typical Del Toro. It is engaging and charming. Clever use of framing, setting, even costumes shows a keen eye and clear grasp of his craft. This is among his best visually.

Pacing is off, but typical of his work. If you know Del Toro, you come to expect it and just cope. If you are not familiar, his second act is always a the weak part of his films. Don't expect a lot here and you won't be disappointed.

Audio is complimentary, without distraction, though it is also not helping to drive it either. It is overall 'meh', but also not unusual for Del Toro. If you know him, this will also not phase you. Most others will not even notice.

Character development is not overly deep. The main couple is somewhat deep, but the antagonist is simply a parody. Normally the antagonists have depth and you find some level of sympathy with them, but not here. This is just a mockery, but one that is disconcerting as it mocks everything one should hold dear. I can't get into it without spoilers, but this is the most problematic part of this film.

Combined with the overall narrative, this is where the movie falls apart. How it could even be nominated for an Oscar is beyond me. If you have seen Hellboy, you are going to be overly familiar with the whole movie. If you aren't, don't worry because the foreshadowing is so clear that it smacks you in the face and calls you a loser. This is by far the worst story I've seen in some time. The fact that Del Toro wrote this just highlights the trend of directors shouldn't write their movies. From George Lucas to this, great writers will generally never make great directors, and vice versa. Somehow this D list horror/comedy movie in the vein of of "Saturday the 14th" and "Love at First Bite" is getting an Oscar nod just highlights how the industry has fallen.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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8

imthenoobFeb 28, 2018

I thought this is easily the best directing Del Toro has done in his stacked career, And that's saying something. The story was definitely interesting and the characters certainly made it worthwhile, made it worth investing my time in just toI thought this is easily the best directing Del Toro has done in his stacked career, And that's saying something. The story was definitely interesting and the characters certainly made it worthwhile, made it worth investing my time in just to see how it all plays out for each one of them.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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3

LaineyFeb 28, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This movie is a beautiful paradox --- a wolf in sheep's clothing.

I adore Guillermo del Toro's work, but it appears in this case as he is writer/story creator/director, that his angers have melted his own fabric.

Parts of this movie are really mind-blowingly beautiful ---

The intro (wow what imagery!!!) whether-or-not you think it works, the lady's complexity, her buddy, and the monster's skin and movements ( and breathing in that suit... which doesn't look like a suit to me ), the art throughout the movie in drawings // cinematography // set dressing ... leaves me breathless, the acting and care to echo the look of the original monster... Or to be more exact: Doug Jones acting as the monster, Sally Hawkins soulful mute, Octavia Spencer's perfectly timed humor, Michael Stuhlbarg's subtle inner conflictions ... Richard Jenkins, well, I just love watching his acting ....

.. the love. Two people - beings - getting together because they get each other.

BUT : and it's a big but :

[ spoiler alert ]

Del Toro writes-in such a livid attack on America ( the US ) and the American Military, along with questionable points of view -- RE: the sex scenes on mental desire for rape (and actual minutes of burning film with its play-reenactment), and through-out the film specifically outlining the American military and all white Americans as cruel, unjust, and selfish, to the tenth power/squared/cubed... !!!!!!

Yes - there was sexism, racism, and a whole bunch of bad stuff ( mafia... ) - there still is in this world.

Google "racism in Mexico". Try "white Irish treated as apes in America 1800s".

Even Malcolm X noted racism is the black-white issue in the US - but religion was the culprit of overseas (reference Alex Haley's "Malcolm X").

But it was highlighted as the *only* way of life for these 2-3 people - it was the gay man, the mute girl, and the black community, against the selfish white American Military and ignorant white American store keeper.

This is a fable, "the creature from the black lagoon" -- not : the creature vs selfish white United States.

It just slowly twists and twists that point --- and leaves me with a what-the-heck-is-this-film-about bad taste after viewing.

So gorgeous -- and so .... eeeech ....

Ummmm.... what does that have to do with the creature from the lagoon?

And okay -- you want to deal with the racism at the time -- show it in all its colors (pun intended) : the Irish being treated as apes and not given jobs, the "whites" who did stand up for equality and weren't gay or mute, the Military people that fought for our country to be what it is: free, so we can then duke out the further freedoms of the present day for women's rights, men's rights, animal/land/building rights and you name it....

HE is allowed to do films here -- because it's America !!!

Del Toro has a lot of anger spatting out in this film, in one sided ways.

I wish there were ways to click and say "here here!!" to Rex Reed's review... I saw the movie and a dear friend and I can totally understand what he is talking about. Unfortunately he might be so overwhelmed with its problems (been there myself if that is the case) that some points which make this movie a miss are not noted as well as some points which make it a win, perhaps under Reed's shock and questioning of how so many adore.

I can see why people love this -- what a gorgeous film... What a beautiful joining and complexity of mutual love.

But a political hatred spews forth.. the wolf in sheep's clothing, melting a gem.… Expand

3 of 5 users found this helpful32

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10

Shlomo3006Feb 28, 2018

Just beautiful and intense. One of the best films of the year, and the best movie of Guillermo del Toro, besides Pan's Laberynth.

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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10

Mistermovies91Feb 28, 2018

Oh no! A movie in which the single woman have her sex life without needed a man, the bad guy have a family and emotions, the gay isn't mentally disturbed and the creature have a soul! How the misogynist, homophobic, ignorant middle viewer isOh no! A movie in which the single woman have her sex life without needed a man, the bad guy have a family and emotions, the gay isn't mentally disturbed and the creature have a soul! How the misogynist, homophobic, ignorant middle viewer is supposed to understand such a complex fairy tale for grown ups? ...He can't. This movie is a masterpiece; it's unreal the way in which Del Toro has perfectly mixed such a variety of film genres together with a sublime writing and directing. Soundtrack and acting skills are stunning, the cinematography is amazing. This is seriously one of the best movies of the year.… Expand

1 of 5 users found this helpful14

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9

whoischarlotteFeb 28, 2018

I beautiful romantic fantasy, visually and within the story. Yes, it's a strange film but in the best possible way!

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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3

cjhjFeb 27, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I don't usually write movie reviews, but I was 'inspired' to do so because of how disappointed I was by this movie. It's not that it's bad -- it's OK, in my opinion -- but for the life of me, I cannot understand why it was nominated for a best picture Oscar (which was the whole reason I saw it in the first place -- damn you, Oscars!).

I'm not really familiar with the director's other films, but based on what I read about them, I was expecting something dark, quirky and mysterious. For me, this movie was none of those things. It was bland and predictable (overall). I mean, there were some nice moments (yeah, I laughed at a few of those jokes and felt sorry for the water-man) and some solid 'mise-en-scène' elements (as we used to say in film class). But I found the story to be somewhat simplistic and childlike, which -- in my opinion -- lead directly to the entirely predictable and 'perfect' ending. (Or perhaps the director was going for a childlike fairy-tale type story? Possible, but there's a lot of 'reality' in there too [i.e., graphic sex & violence], so difficult to make that case). Also -- as some other viewers may have noticed -- the tone of the movie seems off in some parts. Like the people in the audience cracked up sometimes when it seemed to be a serious moment, which was confusing. (I should also add that I laughed out loud on three separate occasions during the movie, while some in the audience did so about 10 more times than that, further adding to my confusion.) To be honest, the story seemed to drag through much of the film. Like, it was interesting and I didn't mind watching it (although I did check my watch a couple times), but I wasn't exactly on the edge of my seat or running as fast as I could back from the bathroom, if you know what I mean. Which brings me back to the beginning of this. Why is this movie being touted as the front runner for the best picture Oscar?! Mysterious indeed. I mean I could see this coming on TV in a few years and someone thinking, 'Wow, weird flick about a woman falling in love with a fish-man, but I've got some other things to do' -- CLICK. I've seen Lady Bird, Phantom Thread, The Florida Project and Darkest Hour recently, and I can understand why they've been nominated for various awards, but I'm having some trouble wrapping my head around this one ... oh well, I guess differences of opinion make the world go round.… Expand

4 of 6 users found this helpful42

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6

onelinereviewsFeb 26, 2018

Ultimately, this water is lukewarm – it got 99 set-ups, but a payoff ain't one.

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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1

zerosubstanceFeb 26, 2018

I experienced this film as a tedious, plodding, infuriating endurance course of "lush visuals" and precious whimsy. The critics suckered me into seeing "Pan's Labyrinth," and as with that movie, "The Shape of Water" is blunt in its insistenceI experienced this film as a tedious, plodding, infuriating endurance course of "lush visuals" and precious whimsy. The critics suckered me into seeing "Pan's Labyrinth," and as with that movie, "The Shape of Water" is blunt in its insistence that tinkly fantasy interspersed with jarring scenes of gore is refreshing and significant.

No spoilers here, but it wouldn't matter; there are no surprises. I won't fault a film for lack of originality if it's otherwise rewarding to watch. This was not. By the predictable end, contrivances and pacing had worn away whatever sympathy I'd felt obliged as an audience member to try to feel for the characters.

I made the mistake of reading reviews, hoping to find some insight into why movies like these are so celebrated critically. But professional critics, in real publications, seem unable to write positively of these sorts of movies in anything other than a prose matching the grandeur of the "lush visuals" therein. It's as though a sea creature's spiny appendage pierced through their skulls and deposited a sense not only of the film's significance, but of their own.

I'd give it a zero, but some acknowledgement will go to the effort put into the stagnant, boring visual compositions that critics love (and which I don't care about, but take skill to achieve, I would assume), and to the actors for keeping a straight face.… Expand

6 of 10 users found this helpful64

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9

ChesterFTOFFeb 25, 2018

This film is quite special for me. It’s the first film (aside from standard Marvel/Star Wars etc. films) that I’ve actually been excited for, and anxiously awaiting it’s release. Since it came out in America first, I also heard how good manyThis film is quite special for me. It’s the first film (aside from standard Marvel/Star Wars etc. films) that I’ve actually been excited for, and anxiously awaiting it’s release. Since it came out in America first, I also heard how good many people thought it was.

Now, I haven’t watched nearly as much of Guillermo Del Toro’s work as I would have liked, and that’s something i’m working to change, but I’ve enjoyed everything I’ve seen that he was linked to. This is the first of his works that I’ve seen in the cinema, and at this rate, he may end up as one of my favourite directors. Everything he does has tremendous style, whether it’s a surreal 1960s romance featuring a fish man, or monoliths of metal and monsters clashing. Of course, The Shape of Water looks gorgeous despite it’s relatively small budget of 19 million dollars. Despite how much I enjoyed Black Panther, TSoW had a budget 1/10th of the size and in my opinion, looked better. The creature effects were brilliant, and Del Toro captured the feel of the setting wonderfully. The music was quite gorgeous, and fit the setting remarkably. The soundtrack sounds like songs you might have heard at the time. It also captures much of the morbid whimsy the film holds throughout.

Speaking of morbidity, I was surprised by the violence throughout the film. Despite my excitement for it’s release, I’d never actually noted it’s rating. I’d assumed it to be a PG-13 or something of the sort, but it holds (and earns) a hard R rating. The gore was almost distractingly good, and depending on the scene somebody watches, they could be forgiven for thinking they were watching a horror film.

Surprisingly, I enjoyed every performance in the film. Sally Hawkins made good on a tremendous task; her character Elisa is mute throughout the film, and as a result, all of ehr acting must be done through body language and facial expression. This fact, coupled with the older setting, often reminded me of the classic silent films. Octavia Spencer also does wonderfully, and the duo have great chemistry despite the lack of words between the pair. Richard Jenkins also brought some much needed levity to many situations, while Michael Shannon gave our antagonist legitimate vulnerability, keeping him from remaining a simple, bland villain.

Every character is interesting in their own way, and it’s quite interesting seeing how this group of outcasts interacts with one another all throughout. There is a mute woman, a black lady, a gay gentleman, a Russian spy and a literal fishman, yet they all feel more human than our villain, despite how the world of the film may portray them.

The plot, for the most part, is rather odd though I imagine this was intentional. The whole film feels rather akin to a fairytale, albeit a far more mature one with nudity and blood. Many times throughout the film, I felt extremely uncomfortable, though I feel this was the intended reaction; it really added to the scene, and the film overall. Even though I could tell the vague direction of the plot from the trailer alone, I wasn’t at all disappointed after watching the film. The journey to the destination was far more important in this instance. I imagine you could even watch this film chopped up and reassembled in the wrong order; it looks simply gorgeous.

Though, of course, I may be biased due to how excited I was for this film, I struggle to find many flaws with it. It just seems to have clicked with me, and at the risk of rating two films extremely highly right next to each other, I shall give this film a 9.5/10, especially due to it’s budget. I don't give it a 10 simply because a few scenes didn't land with me, personally. Others seemed to enjoy them, though!… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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8

pnoyfilmtvadikFeb 25, 2018

Another beauty-and-the-beast re-interpretation combined with voice or platform for society's underdogs. Nothing new. The highlight of the film for me is how del Torro gradually elevated the pacing of the film. Character introduction andAnother beauty-and-the-beast re-interpretation combined with voice or platform for society's underdogs. Nothing new. The highlight of the film for me is how del Torro gradually elevated the pacing of the film. Character introduction and revelation is not too dull but the rest is good. Left me feeling light after leaving the cinema.… Expand

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

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10

ambermdFeb 24, 2018

An exceptional movie, which at its heart is about form (and how it doesn't really matter) and love. Beautifully directed by del Toro, supported by an incredible score and Octavia Spencer's hilarious supporting role really made this film whatAn exceptional movie, which at its heart is about form (and how it doesn't really matter) and love. Beautifully directed by del Toro, supported by an incredible score and Octavia Spencer's hilarious supporting role really made this film what it is, which is all topped off by the ambigious ending.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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9

MasterRileyFeb 23, 2018

The Shape of Water is a beautiful film to look at and listen to; with amazing cinematography, production design, and music. The actors and performances are great as well, with Sally Hawkin's mute performance adding to the beauty of the film.The Shape of Water is a beautiful film to look at and listen to; with amazing cinematography, production design, and music. The actors and performances are great as well, with Sally Hawkin's mute performance adding to the beauty of the film. Taking away the opportunity for dialogue between her and the creature really makes for their relationship to feel innocent and beautiful.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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4

phillyjeffFeb 23, 2018

Probably one of the most boring movies I've ever seen. It's impossible to make a bathroom into a pool with sticking a towel under the door.

8 of 12 users found this helpful84

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7

ianglaucoFeb 22, 2018

las escenas que no combinan, el sexo y los desnudos con un monstruo fantasioso no combina, la critica al capitalismo en el calidac, con un musiucal, y los ideales de igualdad con un final que separa a la gente normal de la anormal. quizas sealas escenas que no combinan, el sexo y los desnudos con un monstruo fantasioso no combina, la critica al capitalismo en el calidac, con un musiucal, y los ideales de igualdad con un final que separa a la gente normal de la anormal. quizas sea una linda y cursi historia de amor libre, pero no totalmente poser y kitch… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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0

jonnajonnaFeb 22, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It would have been a pretty good movie if it didn't have any of the following.
- Showing the naked body in a bath scene is always unnecessary. We all have an imagination and I would rather use mine. -I don't think it's at all interesting or necessary to show someone masturbating. If they had left that out, the whole love scene with the creature would have been less gross and disgusting. And more innocent and beautiful. This backfired of them. - The animal cruelty. I cannot believe that they got away with having the creature eat the cat. And that they showed the cat's half eaten body. This was just wrong. Why couldn't they have stopped the creature before the cat got attacked?? Once again cruelty and images that were simply UNNECESSARY. - The way the sex scene with the security guy and his wife was filmed was also just really pointless. They couldn't have been under the blanket? Come on!

It's always sad to see how all of the things that made the movie rated R, also ruined the whole experience. Because of the things I mentioned above, the movie lost its beauty. Nothing was even as funny as it could have been. I was just waiting for the movie to be over so I could find out how it ends. But it was NOT worth it.… Expand

6 of 10 users found this helpful64

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2

travis_flFeb 22, 2018

Damaged heroes, cartoon villains: derivative and cliched at every level. Dead last on my Oscar list.

11 of 13 users found this helpful112

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1

Ave8Feb 22, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I was bored out of my mind, unimpressed by lackluster visuals and incredibly repetitive scenes. But most of all I felt no "magic" at all, which was supposed to be the whole point of the movie. The gigantic plot holes (how can a cleaning lady access the most prized asset of a top secret facility at will, by just opening the door?), the cliché characters (the bad general, the helping friend, ...), and the overall uninteresting story made sure that any ounce of poetry was nipped in the bud as soon as it peeked.
How this movie gathered more awards than the master piece that was Dunkirk is beyond me. Surely the professional critics know something I don't. Or do they? Maybe they just have a tendency to get overly excited as soon as anything original pops up, because they're so tired (aren't we all) of seeing the same things over and over again.… Expand

6 of 9 users found this helpful63

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10

BertronomousFeb 21, 2018

This movie was fantastic. Brilliant cast, great writing and an amazing story. Highly recommend. Guillermo del Toro's best!!

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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0

locusmaximusFeb 21, 2018

I am not mute like the main character, but after watching this film a few minutes, I wished I would be blind and deaf. The main protagonist works as a cleaner and her daily schedule is to eat something, then masturbate in the bathtube. AfterI am not mute like the main character, but after watching this film a few minutes, I wished I would be blind and deaf. The main protagonist works as a cleaner and her daily schedule is to eat something, then masturbate in the bathtube. After that she is going to work. There is a non specified fishman, both fall in "love" with each other. In her own words: "because he is like me". Yeah, handicapped and mentally retarded. That is the true definition of love in this movie. I give him eggs and later I spread my legs. So instead of masturbating, she uses her fishman as a lover. They don't have any topics to talk about, since they can't talk. lol. So there is not a big deal of a consitent story here. The fishman eats the head of the cat of the gay "friend" of the mute retard,but he quotes: "Well, he is like he is. It's not his fault." Cool comment, bra! This film is just rubbish, don't waste your time and money on this pervert, mad film. You'll find a lot of good movies about love......elsewhere… Expand

7 of 11 users found this helpful74

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0

PoldekFeb 21, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The climate of the film is interesting, but the message is empty, and the sex scene with the lizard is already some kind of cretinism. Certainly crazy feminists had to be charmed. Once they applauded when a white woman gave herself to a Negro or gay love. Today they excite when a woman has sex with an alien. Then all the senses tremble. I'm sorry, this is not a movie for healthy people on the mind.… Expand

5 of 13 users found this helpful58

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9

mrdr4gonFeb 20, 2018

Get past the possibly irksome premise and a script that's weak in places, and you'll find a beautifully crafted and acted film. Not quite Del Toro at his very best but it's pretty close.

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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8

marcmyworksFeb 19, 2018

The Shape of Water is an interesting, touching and beautiful film. There is a simplicity in its plot that really allows for more compelling visuals without it being overpowering. To fall in love with a sea creature, one that looks so muchThe Shape of Water is an interesting, touching and beautiful film. There is a simplicity in its plot that really allows for more compelling visuals without it being overpowering. To fall in love with a sea creature, one that looks so much like the Creature from the Black Lagoon, is a poignant allegory of relationships based on race, superficiality and homosexuality.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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0

IVMFeb 19, 2018

It was horrible.
A total waste of money and time.
I hated it. It was a struggle to finish watching that awful movie. Seriously, I am not a troll. I never write reviews. But this one was so awful that I had to do it..

12 of 16 users found this helpful124

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10

stavrosglyfadaFeb 19, 2018

Best movie of the year by far!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

1 of 4 users found this helpful13

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9

alvaro2802Feb 17, 2018

The shape of water is a piece of ART! An incredible performance of Sally and Octavia in the motion picture. The humor in here is a little bit hide but Richard Jenkins is ... just amazing. On the other hand, sometimes the movie (at theThe shape of water is a piece of ART! An incredible performance of Sally and Octavia in the motion picture. The humor in here is a little bit hide but Richard Jenkins is ... just amazing. On the other hand, sometimes the movie (at the beginning) was a little slow but when it continues it gets more fascinating. Dimitri is a character that I personally don't understand because the double way of being is extremely strange, once he helps the Russian people then what happens to this people a question that they didn't answer. Summarizing, wonderful casting and big congratulations to the writers (the script is brilliant) and to Guillermo del Toro. The great movie THE SHAPE OF WATER.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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10

vuphonglinh12Feb 16, 2018

One of two most beautiful movie of the year 2017 (the rest is Call Me By Your Name).I don't understand why people cares so much about love between a human being and a fish monster but ignore this is a love story among two lonely people,whichOne of two most beautiful movie of the year 2017 (the rest is Call Me By Your Name).I don't understand why people cares so much about love between a human being and a fish monster but ignore this is a love story among two lonely people,which is the important thing.… Expand

1 of 5 users found this helpful14

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3

AkumaJackFeb 14, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Elisa have sex with a fish.
She has sex with a fish. That's disgusting. That overshadows everything else. Disgusting and gross.… Expand

8 of 11 users found this helpful83

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2

cibreoFeb 12, 2018

Pretentious twaddle. A ridiculously overblown and ultimately empty muddle. Great actors wasted: Michael Shannon reprising Boardwalk Empire and Octavia Spencer in danger of being stuck doing The Help and Hidden Figures for life. Two stars forPretentious twaddle. A ridiculously overblown and ultimately empty muddle. Great actors wasted: Michael Shannon reprising Boardwalk Empire and Octavia Spencer in danger of being stuck doing The Help and Hidden Figures for life. Two stars for the design - putting glitter on a tu*d.… Expand

16 of 18 users found this helpful162

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7

LinttaFlamingoFeb 11, 2018

The Shape Of Water is a very good film.

Sally Hawkins gives probably my favorite performance of 2017 here. She's perfect. Especially in a scene where her character Elisa, who by the way is mute, talks in sign language very aggressively toThe Shape Of Water is a very good film.

Sally Hawkins gives probably my favorite performance of 2017 here. She's perfect. Especially in a scene where her character Elisa, who by the way is mute, talks in sign language very aggressively to Richard Jenkins. The acting was fantastic. And the movie is just as original as Pan's Labyrinth. Gorgeous, especially the underwater scenes that were simply beautiful. Creative and surprisingly romantic. The whole first act when we see Elisa and the creature together is so good. It's interesting, sweet, charming and has a very fitting soundtrack. That said though, there are some problems. Even though the villain is a lot better than many, there are a lot of scenes of him just talking with some other characters about how dangerous the creature is and what to do to it. This is essential to know once, not 20 times. Those scenes broke the immersion a lot and I was mostly just hoping for the movie to go back to Elisa and the creature. There was also a big feeling of deja-vu quite often when it comes to the characters in this movie and Pan's Labyrinth. It's not a problem in itself, but a couple things were pretty predictable because of it. The final act is excellent though. We get more of Elisa and the creature, more of the villain actually doing instead of telling and a very good ending.

All around a very good film, although there's a scene where a cat dies. Sorry Guillermo, but one point taken off for that.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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10

CritcheroFeb 10, 2018

A wonderful told story form start to finish. The combination of music, setting, characters and hidden meanings in the plot create a beautiful and downright magical story. It's truly a wonder how it duels as a ode to glorious era, whileA wonderful told story form start to finish. The combination of music, setting, characters and hidden meanings in the plot create a beautiful and downright magical story. It's truly a wonder how it duels as a ode to glorious era, while holding modern messages of today's social landscape. Even when the plot starts borders on taking things to far, it still holds importance to the development of the plot or show change in one of its deep and well crafted characters. An absolute breathtaking accomplishment in visuals, story telling and character development; "The Shape of Water" is one that not only stands out in 2017 but stands on the border of perfection.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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10

Juan474Feb 7, 2018

Beuatiful movie, one of the most beautiful ones I have ever seen. Very creative and original, I can definitely see why it has 13 Oscar nominees.

2 of 7 users found this helpful25

All this user's reviews

8

oddtimesFeb 7, 2018

An excellent movie. Sally Hawkins does again what "Hollywood" actresses are totally incapable of, and Michael Shannon succeeds again at creating a unique character. The movie just needed a couple of more scenes in the first half to establishAn excellent movie. Sally Hawkins does again what "Hollywood" actresses are totally incapable of, and Michael Shannon succeeds again at creating a unique character. The movie just needed a couple of more scenes in the first half to establish the relationship and the "Asset's" intelligence. The second half of the movie is truly great. Shape of Water is an excellent example that a really good movie can be made with a simple story, interesting sets and great cast.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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0

jenhadFeb 7, 2018

Worse move I have ever seen, and that is saying a lot. I'm very upset that I wasted my time and money on this trash. I guess you would like it if you are into fish/human love stories. that sing and dance scene was hilarious.

5 of 12 users found this helpful57

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0

pdw123Feb 7, 2018

Biggest disappointment of the oscar season, by far! Del Toro is truly becoming lamestream/mainstream like other directors have o'er the years, take the money and run.
Doug Jones just playing the same typecasted character and one of the worstBiggest disappointment of the oscar season, by far! Del Toro is truly becoming lamestream/mainstream like other directors have o'er the years, take the money and run.
Doug Jones just playing the same typecasted character and one of the worst Michael Shannon films to date. Too bad, since Hellboy and Pan's Labyrinth had plots and storylines that were original, and used WWII historical references that were involving and meaningful. These cold war references weren't even utilized well, although it is a style vs. substance film that critics often fawn over, or are obviously being bribed for. And, for icing on this crap cake (have to call a spade a spade here and just like I see it and have seen the film), Richard Jenkins---another incredible actor--delivers one of the worst lines I've ever heard. "I wish I would've f###ked more in my earlier life." Oh please, in America, the land of sexual harassment and Tronald Dump we don't need that also. Another flippant sexual reference in a film about love and depth that really wasn't that at all, enough!! "I Tonya" and "3 billboards..." made their grades and thensome, but this film overhyped as hell....… Expand

12 of 17 users found this helpful125

All this user's reviews

4

JNOTRFeb 6, 2018

It's a rare movie, that's why I find it difficult to analyze it. From the technical point of view it is excellent: cinematography, production design, makeup, soundtrack and the atmosphere of the 50's. But as for the script and theIt's a rare movie, that's why I find it difficult to analyze it. From the technical point of view it is excellent: cinematography, production design, makeup, soundtrack and the atmosphere of the 50's. But as for the script and the performances, I thought it was bad. The script, at first is too slow and takes time to establish the main plot, but at the end (in the last 15 minutes) everything is solved fast and forced. The only act that I came to like was that of Sally Hawkins; Octavia Spencer makes the same character that she always does, nothing special and Richard Jenkins too.
Personally I did not like it. I hope he does not take the Oscar for Best Movie.… Expand

10 of 13 users found this helpful103

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10

DiogoOliveiraFeb 5, 2018

Atemporal, não encontro palavras para descrever essa obra prima, estou emocionando, lindo, poético, verdadeiro, único, 13 indicações ao Oscar é o bastante para descrever? não é, vejo filmes como Lady Bird, ou ate mesmo Call Me by your NameAtemporal, não encontro palavras para descrever essa obra prima, estou emocionando, lindo, poético, verdadeiro, único, 13 indicações ao Oscar é o bastante para descrever? não é, vejo filmes como Lady Bird, ou ate mesmo Call Me by your Name com notas acima de 90 que não da a metade da qualidade de shape of water. apenas por ser dirigido por um Mexicano.… Expand

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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5

SrPepeFeb 5, 2018

Un comienzo muy flojo desemboca en una trama muy rara. Buenas actuaciones, gran producción y buen entorno musical, pero no llego a entender que quiere transmitir la película. No me creo la relación y lo que menos me gusta son las pocasUn comienzo muy flojo desemboca en una trama muy rara. Buenas actuaciones, gran producción y buen entorno musical, pero no llego a entender que quiere transmitir la película. No me creo la relación y lo que menos me gusta son las pocas explicaciones, al final te quedas con más preguntas que respuestas.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

All this user's reviews

8

WhiskeyStoriesFeb 4, 2018

The Shape of Water is an absolutely delightful and charming fairy tale with great contemporary messages. Everything about it is perfect (gorgeous cinematography, wonderful soundtrack and score, fantastic performances etc.) except for oneThe Shape of Water is an absolutely delightful and charming fairy tale with great contemporary messages. Everything about it is perfect (gorgeous cinematography, wonderful soundtrack and score, fantastic performances etc.) except for one completely subjective aspect: the love story. For me it did not really work. Once again, as he usually does, Guillermo got a little caught up in the fluff of romance. I think he was more concerned with the aesthetics and the idea of it than its believability. No matter how hard I tried to be open-minded about it and go along with its enchanting presentation, I just found it tonaly creepy and not fully fleshed out (also oddly exploitative from Elisa's character towards the creature). Unfortunately as the romance is a huge part of the film it soured the experience a bit, but nevertheless I still enjoyed and kinda loved this beautiful film.… Expand

1 of 4 users found this helpful13

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10

VernoicaFeb 4, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I thoroughly enjoyed the message of this movie on multiple levels. It dealt with racism, religious inequality and bias. Negative attitudes towards sexual preference. Sexual misconduct in the workplace and the struggles of disabled persons. It was so much more than a remake of Beauty and the Beast. It dealt with the universe in our own backyard the worlds oceans which are largely unexplored. And in my own opinion it shed light upon the fact that we are all aliens and outcasts.… Expand

1 of 5 users found this helpful14

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0

LudwigvanFeb 4, 2018

liberal garbage. The cast is a Democratic party coalition-of-the-fringes against a generic evil white man. Generic evil white man prevents alien "other" from screwing a white woman. Democratic party coalition-of-the-fringes gangs up on evilliberal garbage. The cast is a Democratic party coalition-of-the-fringes against a generic evil white man. Generic evil white man prevents alien "other" from screwing a white woman. Democratic party coalition-of-the-fringes gangs up on evil white man to save the day for miscegenation. That is literally what this movie is about, pure political propaganda.… Expand

8 of 13 users found this helpful85

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10

AlbertoHerbbFeb 4, 2018

One of the best movies I've seen in a while. I've been an avid fan of Guillermo Del Toro since Pan's Labyrinth, I'm not a big fan of Hell Boy or Pacific Rim, but The Shape Of Water nailed it. The Shape Of water is a love Story set during theOne of the best movies I've seen in a while. I've been an avid fan of Guillermo Del Toro since Pan's Labyrinth, I'm not a big fan of Hell Boy or Pacific Rim, but The Shape Of Water nailed it. The Shape Of water is a love Story set during the cold War. The Movie has a historical context which entwines with a mystical and supernatural love story. I'm surprised that the Academy gave this movie 11 Nominations. The movie on paper seems quiet odd, but the actors and the director helped establish it into a beautiful film.… Expand

2 of 6 users found this helpful24

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10

LeonardoAmatoJan 21, 2018

"The Shape of Water" is nothing but a work of art. Del Toro makes every scene unforgettable as we feel the constant presence of water sorrounded by Desplat's rousing music. The most powerful fact in this movie is how what it is unsaid is more"The Shape of Water" is nothing but a work of art. Del Toro makes every scene unforgettable as we feel the constant presence of water sorrounded by Desplat's rousing music. The most powerful fact in this movie is how what it is unsaid is more important than what it is said.… Expand

2 of 7 users found this helpful25

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8

AcaciaFeb 4, 2018

I enjoyed this movie, but probably expected to really love it. For sure, it is quite weird, which is fine with me. After all, I loved “Swiss Army Man”... But, for some reason, this movie did not resonate with me and I don’t know why. TheI enjoyed this movie, but probably expected to really love it. For sure, it is quite weird, which is fine with me. After all, I loved “Swiss Army Man”... But, for some reason, this movie did not resonate with me and I don’t know why. The performances were all perfectly done and the story is a good one. But, there is just a “but”. Maybe I was hoping too much for a remake of “The Creature From the Black Lagoon” because I had heard the someone was doing a remake of it. Then I saw the previews and got excited about seeing it until I learned it was a “romance”. Oh well, it is a very good movie. But, compared to “Three Billboards”, which is a WOW movie, “The Shape of Water” is just another good movie.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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6

StarmanDXFeb 3, 2018

As a big fan of Guillermo del Toro, I don't get the hype. Sure, it's a well polished movie with solid performances and dialogue. But it's predictable to the point of being boring and completely lacks the imaginative creativity that is theAs a big fan of Guillermo del Toro, I don't get the hype. Sure, it's a well polished movie with solid performances and dialogue. But it's predictable to the point of being boring and completely lacks the imaginative creativity that is the hallmark of movies like Pan's Labyrinth, Hellboy, Cronos and even Pacific Rim, to a lesser extent. Just does not even feel like a del Toro movie to me at all.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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6

VancomycinFeb 3, 2018

Oppressively dark with lots of sex-stuff, Guillermo really put the "adult" in adult fairy tale on this one.

3 of 5 users found this helpful32

All this user's reviews

7

XirhannaFeb 2, 2018

This movie left me question what is and isn't acceptable in society anymore. It was good but a bit graphic at times.

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

All this user's reviews

8

rafa14Feb 1, 2018

it is a Beauty and the Beast, but for adults, because the story is about a girl who never felt part of the society, because she is mute and when she meet the creature and start to build a relationship with him, she feels complete even thoughit is a Beauty and the Beast, but for adults, because the story is about a girl who never felt part of the society, because she is mute and when she meet the creature and start to build a relationship with him, she feels complete even though his is not the prettiest thing in the world. But besides this, the movie is a masterpiece, the way that Del Toro directs it's unbelieve good and he deserves a oscar for it especially because of the under water scenes. Octavia Spencer and Sally Hawking are the main reason this movie is been so well receveid, Sally doesn't say a word in the whole film, but still, you get her, you know when she is happy, sad or in love, and Octavia is the best as always, she is so funny and confident.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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8

ReubenIsAGodFeb 1, 2018

Del Toro's The Shape of Water is his best work since Pan's Labyrinth...

The setting, set designs and aesthetic beautifully capture the spirit of the 60s. Even politically and socially the film understands and portrays the setting so vividlyDel Toro's The Shape of Water is his best work since Pan's Labyrinth...

The setting, set designs and aesthetic beautifully capture the spirit of the 60s. Even politically and socially the film understands and portrays the setting so vividly and rawly. This is a love letter from Del Toro nostalgic for the 60s all through the strangest narrative of love between Woman and Seaman. The film is warm, it finds language through actions instead of dialogue. I really dug the Shape of Water. Its great!

My main criticism is most definitely with the third act of the film! The ending really does bog it down! Its a beautiful fairy tale! Go check it out!… Expand

1 of 4 users found this helpful13

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8

CarFan1999Jan 31, 2018

The Shape of Water is written and directed by Guillermo del Toro. It stars Sally Hawkins, Michael Shannon, Rickard Jenkins, and Octavia Spencer. The story focuses on Elisa, played by Hawkins. She's a mute woman who works as a janitor at aThe Shape of Water is written and directed by Guillermo del Toro. It stars Sally Hawkins, Michael Shannon, Rickard Jenkins, and Octavia Spencer. The story focuses on Elisa, played by Hawkins. She's a mute woman who works as a janitor at a government research facility in 1962 Baltimore. While working, she notices scientists bring in a creature that looks like a combination of a fish and human. They experiment on the creature, thinking that it might help the US in the space race. When no one is around, Elisa goes to where the creature is held out of curiosity. She then starts communicating with the creature and forms a romantic bond with it. Eventually, she decides to break the creature out of the facility after she learns it's going to be killed. It's a very unique story, so I won't reveal more.

This original story is a little bit like Splash or Beauty and the Beast, but is easily the most unique movie I've seen this year. It is a rather strange story. What you think will happen doesn't happen and what you think will never happen does happen. It makes for a simple but odd story that may turn a few people off. As for me, it felt odd at first, but by the middle, it won me over. Once I decided to just go with the flow, I enjoyed this movie. At its heart, this is a simple, sweet romance story with bits of drama, fantasy, sci-fi, horror, thriller, and even a little social commentary thrown in. The cinematography is great as this movie looks beautiful. The music score from Alexandre Desplat is very lovely to listen to, and the acting performances across the board are good, though not great. The characters are investing as they're an outcast in some way. Eliza for example can't talk and she feels the creature is the only one who can understand her. Even the villain here has a feeling of being incomplete.

In the end, this is a strange movie, but ultimately very charming and original, especially in this time of sequels and reboots.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

All this user's reviews

8

zymase4Jan 31, 2018

Guillermo del Toro revels in telling fantastical stories that take place in a time and place familiar to his audience. Much like his 2006 film Pan’s Labyrinth, there is an historical context that provides impetus for a plot not entirely ofGuillermo del Toro revels in telling fantastical stories that take place in a time and place familiar to his audience. Much like his 2006 film Pan’s Labyrinth, there is an historical context that provides impetus for a plot not entirely of our world. Set in Baltimore at the height of the Cold War, The Shape of Water is an exploration of loneliness and love; of isolation and compassion.

The real delight in the film comes from its set design. This is familiar territory for del Toro following the excellent backdrops in Crimson Peak, but where Peak deals in lofty Gothic architecture, Water revels in classic Americana: a Cadillac dealership replete with drool-worthy cars; a theater with gilded balconies and a gorgeous marquee. Sets in a research lab conjure fantasy and science fiction, highlighted by an art deco pool that’s the pinnacle of production designer Paul D. Austerberry’s construction.

The Shape of Water’s use of color resonates as much as the design. Full of greens and blues, the aquamarine palette employed throughout helps to amplify the fairy tale elements being woven into an everyday setting. Much of the latter half of the film benefits from the buoyancy the use of color lends it, and it fleshes out del Toro’s world.

Where the fantasy doesn’t quite work is the romance. It is difficult, even with the excellent protagonists of the as-credited “Amphibian Man,” to suspend disbelief and buy in to the protagonist’s attraction – especially the desire for intimacy. One can’t help but be reminded of the NASA-funded study on communication with dolphins in which a researcher developed feelings for one of her subjects, and consummated the relationship. And since this is, after all, a fairy tale and a love story, it’s a central theme that is difficult to connect with, even in a beautifully-designed film with so much going for it.… Expand

1 of 4 users found this helpful13

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3

ajukeoJan 31, 2018

As a massive fan of Guillermo Del Toro, I was eagerly looking forward to seeing another of his magical yet unusual creations with great characters and compelling story but that was not what I found.

From the unnecessary opening to theAs a massive fan of Guillermo Del Toro, I was eagerly looking forward to seeing another of his magical yet unusual creations with great characters and compelling story but that was not what I found.

From the unnecessary opening to the bizarre and out of place scenes, this movie felt like Del Toro just went with every first idea that came to his head and didn't think of where it would lead. Each scene was disjointed and the characters were not compelling in the slightest, I have never left the cinema so speechless in trying to describe what I had just witnessed.… Expand

13 of 20 users found this helpful137

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0

DOUGKJan 30, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is one of the worst movies ever. I hate to agree with Rex Reed but this is a ridiculous story from start to finish. Everything about it -- the monster, the evil villain, all of the good people, the Russians, the situation, the plot -- ridiculous in the extreme. I am not pro military but when you make military people arbitrarily evil for no possible reason, you go beyond all rational and believable positions. The monster looks like he was designed by a 5 year old. The fact that this film is winning many awards shows that we have fallen into cultural decay. Lady Bird was horrible, this was worse.… Expand

7 of 13 users found this helpful76

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0

JPTJan 28, 2018

If you would like to see a soft porn musical, with a touch bestiality, this movie is for you! Whatever drugs the creator /script writer/director/producers etc. took before taking on this project, I want some!

10 of 18 users found this helpful108

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9

amheretojudgeJan 28, 2018

if i told you about her, what would i say..

The Shape Of Water Dragging a man by holding his mouth with only two fingers and crushing or pulling out one's wrecked fingers and a cat being eaten by are not only the scenes that will give youif i told you about her, what would i say..

The Shape Of Water

Dragging a man by holding his mouth with only two fingers and crushing or pulling out one's wrecked fingers and a cat being eaten by are not only the scenes that will give you goosebumps but it also lets you cringe yourself on the seat whilst on the other side of it it also contains some genuinely beautiful and innocent scenes like common taste of music and sense of similar symptoms and one of the best is water dripping in the theater. The Shape Of Water isn't just a good movie that came across this year; "year" isn't the territory it fits in, it is one of the decades or centuries finest of all. Guillermo del Toro sings all of his love to the phantasmagorical genre films on the highest note possible raising the bar for everyone which won't be easy to surpass. Sally Hawkins; as I have mentioned earlier too, is just soothing on the screen, her calmness, rage, love, fear or even funny emotions just rain drops all over the movie. Michael Shannon is dreadful in it and with all his furious in his eyes and persona he completely overpowers the opposite actors on screen and along with the help of some of the best actors doing their best work (Octavia Spencer, Doug Jones and Richard Jenkins) the film manages to enter the major league easily. The Shape Of Water is filled with hope (that's irony, considering its premise), practicality, amusement and hiding along with all of this, horror.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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1

iseenthefutureJan 27, 2018

This movie was awful. How much did the studios pay the critics on this one. It's an absolute ridiculous BORE. 3 people walked out and i soon followed.

13 of 19 users found this helpful136

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8

dharmaJan 27, 2018

Del Toro is back on track and as of writing, has received 13 Oscars nominations for his work on this flick. Give him a too much 'money', and he will focus too much on the production design. When he has a limited budget, that's when he madeDel Toro is back on track and as of writing, has received 13 Oscars nominations for his work on this flick. Give him a too much 'money', and he will focus too much on the production design. When he has a limited budget, that's when he made some of his best work. The Shape of Water is essentially an 'odd' romantic film, between a 'fish man' and a mute woman. On paper, it's as weird as it sounds, but on screen, it is again another classic from the director.… Expand

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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9

temptershellJan 27, 2018

I waited for this film for a very long time. Not necessarily for this title but in this form because Tim Burton's latest productions did not delight as much as any del Toro project and that's why The Shape of Water is a production for me.I waited for this film for a very long time. Not necessarily for this title but in this form because Tim Burton's latest productions did not delight as much as any del Toro project and that's why The Shape of Water is a production for me. Honestly, I was hoping for something darker but the convention of delicate urban fantasy also appealed to me.… Expand

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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6

zapVJan 26, 2018

It’s beautiful shot and atmospheric fairy tale intended for adults. The problem is that other than explicit scenes of violence and sex everything in this movie from characters to theme development stays on a level of a children’s story.

10 of 13 users found this helpful103

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9

BrianMcCriticJan 26, 2018

This is the type of rare film that can include several genres and do them all justice. At its core The Shape of Water is a love story that is more believable than many human only love stories (Fifty Shades). This is amazing achievement. A

2 of 11 users found this helpful29

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4

LetMeInPleaseJan 26, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Technically competent movie with god tier music and good performances but to me it almost fell apart for one simple reason, I couldn't buy this love story at all. It sounds good on paper, two "freaks of nature" falling in love with each other, but its execution is so ridiculously contrived it sucks out all the potential enjoyment. Why such an advanced facility doesn't have cameras in the place it needs them the most? Why simple janitor can on her own easily access classified compartments of said facility and for what reason? Main heroine's motivation is really hard to swallow throughout the whole movie. It seems like it misses a good 20 minute chunk where the bonding between 2 lovers would be properly established.
Also on a side note, I understand that it's supposed to be like a fairy tale for adults, or whatever you wanna call it, but the main villain is such a one-note, so cartoonishly evil. Even for this format you gotta have more nuance than that… Expand

12 of 16 users found this helpful124

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9

davd123Jan 26, 2018

What a great movie! At some points it was kinda basic because on the middle of this movie you can already guess what it will be like in the ending. And this is the main reason why it is not 10 from me. But everything else was magnificent theWhat a great movie! At some points it was kinda basic because on the middle of this movie you can already guess what it will be like in the ending. And this is the main reason why it is not 10 from me. But everything else was magnificent the acting, the atmosphere of this movie, it was something special for me.… Expand

2 of 6 users found this helpful24

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1

sightseeJan 25, 2018

What a mess--slow moving, poor dialogue, dreadful editing. The story has been told before and trying to cobble together 60's America, dancing with the Beast, racism, love, hackneyed politics (Russians so stereotypical it's laughable),What a mess--slow moving, poor dialogue, dreadful editing. The story has been told before and trying to cobble together 60's America, dancing with the Beast, racism, love, hackneyed politics (Russians so stereotypical it's laughable), etc.,etc. into one movie just doesnt work. Jenkins, a marvelous actor, says his lines without being there. The villian is at least a villian. The mute, well, gee, she doesnt talk. That leaves little else and the 60's aura and cool special effects don't save this rambling mess.… Expand

11 of 17 users found this helpful116

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6

moviecritic68Jan 24, 2018

I read this movie will be up for the 2nd highest number of awards at the oscars. What this tells me is there were few films to compete last year. Although this film had some above average attributes I have a very hard time placing it in suchI read this movie will be up for the 2nd highest number of awards at the oscars. What this tells me is there were few films to compete last year. Although this film had some above average attributes I have a very hard time placing it in such high esteem. Yes it was well done but a far cry from previous oscar winners. Sorry critics ... the user composite score is much more in line than your ratings… Expand

7 of 10 users found this helpful73

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2

PJPazJan 24, 2018

Amélie meets The Beast. It's the La-La Land of 2017: tedious, overrated, bloated, fatuous and cliché-ridden. We've seen this film - done better - before. A waste of good acting talent. Run away.

20 of 26 users found this helpful206

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5

MurrayTJan 24, 2018

Great visually and great acting, which is great if you're interested in movie making. The story is a different story. It starts out good, but then gets more and more ridiculous until it gets to the point where I'm saying, "Seriously?"

9 of 12 users found this helpful93

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0

SambadJan 24, 2018

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Pure propaganda can never be considered art. And it's very difficult to discern this from anything else. The 'characters' are one dimensional at best, and the supposed theme of the film takes a complete backseat to the neo-liberal propaganda the film crams into it's 2 hour running time with all the subtlety of a dead seal in a maternity ward.
Suspicion sets in just at looking at the glut of sycophantic and gushing reviews from once respected publications like The Guardian, who now seem to specialise in pro-war, anti-family radical feminist indoctrination. This one could forgive, if the film was even remotely competent or well made, which it isn't. Guillermo Del Toro is a hugely overrated director anyway, Pan's Labyrinth seeming to be a one-off fluke of a good film. But this execrable and charmless mess is his lowest moment.
Let's take the characters. The 'star' is a deaf woman (played with twee sanctimonious abandon by Sally Hawkins) who cleans a government facility with a black woman (played likeably by Octavia Spencer) who's near every line is about how her no-good husband is bone idle and she has to do everything. These are the first hints of propaganda. Every white man in this film is depicted negatively, except for two, the reasons for these being, one is homosexual, and the other is Russian, but going against his Soviet paymasters. Before going any further, assurances need to be made to the reader that this review is not written by a Trump supporter or alt right activist. But neither is it written by a neo-liberal Soros supporter and thought police advocater. Both the Republican and Democrat party are rotten to the core, but the mainstream media bias and trumpeting of a completely fabricated Russiagate narrative, as well as pro-regime change and deceptively divisive identity politics, make propaganda films like this so difficult to digest. The sympathetic Russian of course dies, he is Russian after all. I'm not 'spoilering' here, everything that happens in this film is as derivative and predictable as the latest known wolf 'Islamist' false flag attack. The biggest bile however is reserved for a character played by the usually good actor Michael Shannon. He is here just a walking epitome of evil, white, straight, 'toxic' family man (by the way, aren't phrases like 'toxic masculinity', and 'smash the patriarchy' genuine hate speech? Are women beyond 'toxicity'? If so, why are 50% of cases of child abuse perpetrated by women? And how come sociopathic mass murderers like Hillary Clinton are held up as virtuous paragons?). With every scene, this guy somehow gets more and more evil, making Skeletor seem more nuanced and subtle. He has a phallic baton he carries around. He doesn't listen to his wonderful wife and covers her mouth when they have sex. Every other line he drops a new racist bombshell, including 'you people' (this script, such originality, such bravery!). I can't begin to think about covering the whole of this embodiment of white male wickedness here, as like the rest of the film, it's relentless. Oh yeah, he believes in God too, so of course this is retrograde and unacceptable, especially to people who believe in nothing deeper than the identity politics that Buzzfeed (a fake alternative news site owned by NBC) tells them to base their lives on. Possibly the most unintentionally hilarious part of the film occurs when the gay character played by Richard Jenkins, comes on to an 'up till now' friendly barman, who suddenly recoils and then goes over and tells a black couple walking into the diner that their kind isn't welcome. Complete character shift due to not wanting to accept advances from an old man. It's hard to imagine actual adults came up with any of this stuff, one imagines it was more likely written by coked up blue haired middle class teenagers who scream 'misogynist' at anyone who uses the term 'he'.
I haven't even touched on the 'story' of a captured amphibian man that the deaf character falls in love with, but this is because it counts for around 7 minutes of the film. Watch Creature From the Black Lagoon instead, who's monster suit this film rips off, badly. The dozens of moronic critics who gave this film 100% have described it as strange (it is if your sole diet of media and literature consists of Simon Cowell and JK Rowling) and warm. This film has no warmth, heart or soul, because the characters are cardboard stereotypes, and the most innovative idea is that everything is 'green' (which actually makes the film look as revolting as it feels). Some films contain elements of state propaganda, or advertising, and can still be deemed with artistic merit. But this is just one long, tedious exercise in social engineering. Shame on everyone involved. You want actual 'social justice'? Watch the badly rated Pirates of Somalia instead. You want anti-Trumpism even? Watch Machete. This puddle of vomit doesn't even make for good hate-watching.… Expand

6 of 17 users found this helpful611

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8

BITESCREENJan 23, 2018

Baltimore, 1962: Die stumme Träumerin Elisa (Sally Hawkins) arbeitet als Putzfrau in einem US-Geheimlabor – dennoch prägen ihr Leben Einsamkeit und Langeweile. Beides ändert sich, als ein allzu menschliches Fischmonster das neuesteBaltimore, 1962: Die stumme Träumerin Elisa (Sally Hawkins) arbeitet als Putzfrau in einem US-Geheimlabor – dennoch prägen ihr Leben Einsamkeit und Langeweile. Beides ändert sich, als ein allzu menschliches Fischmonster das neueste Forschungsobjekt gibt. Die Außenseiter werden zu Gefährten – doch ein fieser Sicherheitschef mit Gottkomplex (Michael Shannon) hat gehörig was dagegen. Shape of Water – Das Flüstern des Wassers ist Guillermo del Toros bester Film seit Pan’s Labyrinth: Das Fantasy-Drama bietet mit einem nicht ganz taufrischen Kalter-Krieg-Szenario und dem platten Plot zwar kaum Tiefe oder Überraschungen – dafür wird es ziemlich spannend und noch emotionaler. Viel wichtiger aber: Von den zauberhaften Bildern, über den gerade Golden-Globe-prämierten Soundtrack bis hin zum frech aus Der Schrecken vom Amazonas gemopsten Monster ist der Film ein glaubwürdiges Liebesbekenntnis ans alte Hollywood-Kino.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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9

errinstevensJan 23, 2018

I might be biased because of my own novels, but this is a stunning, fresh portrayal of what could have been a tired trope. Guillermo del Torro's sensibilities are gorgeously present; and every single character in this thing is perfectly portrayed.

2 of 6 users found this helpful24

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10

alejandro970Jan 21, 2018

An outstanding stir of genres with the unique style of Del Toro. It´s an uncommon story of love and a deep reflexion about the real meaning of "monsters". Sally Hawkings, in the role of a mute janitor express a lot without saying a word. AAn outstanding stir of genres with the unique style of Del Toro. It´s an uncommon story of love and a deep reflexion about the real meaning of "monsters". Sally Hawkings, in the role of a mute janitor express a lot without saying a word. A must to see.… Expand

3 of 9 users found this helpful36

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7

drrealitycheckJan 21, 2018

The movie is a surrealistic, romantic and sometime satirical film which takes the old grade Z "creature from the black lagoon" flicks of the 50s and brings them into modern concerns (albeit in a 1962 setting) and adult themes. A Cold WarThe movie is a surrealistic, romantic and sometime satirical film which takes the old grade Z "creature from the black lagoon" flicks of the 50s and brings them into modern concerns (albeit in a 1962 setting) and adult themes. A Cold War setting, a picture of early 60s racism and the struggles of loneliness are sub-themes.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

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6

thedaywalkerJan 21, 2018

It is a nice movie technically, the intensity of the scenes and the performances of the cast are what kept me in the movie until the end. Octavia Spencer and Richard Jenkins were great and Michael Shannon was fantastic. But there one majorIt is a nice movie technically, the intensity of the scenes and the performances of the cast are what kept me in the movie until the end. Octavia Spencer and Richard Jenkins were great and Michael Shannon was fantastic. But there one major flaw for me personally that made me enjoy the movie way less... I did not believe in their love, The main character and the humanoid amphibians loved is basically just based in their difficulty in communication, because that what they showed us, so it seems really shallow, so i think that took the magic of what could have been a fantastic movie.… Expand

5 of 7 users found this helpful52

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5

EPMDJan 21, 2018

A human falls in love with a monster. I guess that can be a good movie if you really need to escape reality, but I just couldn't buy the premise. The sets are really well done, though. It's a professional movie, but the story is just not my thing.

8 of 10 users found this helpful82

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10

PlastiktorJan 21, 2018

This movie is a work of art. Everything is perfect. Every take, frame, lighting , coloring, photography and art direction, make up, casting I mean everything, the music is flawless. I enjoyed it immensely since the first second. One of theThis movie is a work of art. Everything is perfect. Every take, frame, lighting , coloring, photography and art direction, make up, casting I mean everything, the music is flawless. I enjoyed it immensely since the first second. One of the best movies I have ever seen in my life.… Expand

3 of 9 users found this helpful36

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9

Jess_HillJan 21, 2018

A sublime experience, this otherworldly fairytale is beautiful to watch, with exquisite performances and superb creature design allowing you to become entranced by this romantic story. As the compelling narrative unfolds, the delightfulA sublime experience, this otherworldly fairytale is beautiful to watch, with exquisite performances and superb creature design allowing you to become entranced by this romantic story. As the compelling narrative unfolds, the delightful soundtrack and detailed set design ground the storyline in the era, and combined with careful pacing and stunning cinematography, this becomes an enchanting experience that keeps you enthralled by this moving and melancholy tale. A film for the mature and discerning viewer, this is an exploration of intimacy and connection that is well worth your time. 9.12/10… Expand

2 of 5 users found this helpful23

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10

Rebecca31Jan 19, 2018

The hype surrounding The Shape of Water is immense and it’s certainly not going away any time soon. So you always have to wonder going into a film like this, will it meet these expectations or fall beneath them leaving you disappointed.The hype surrounding The Shape of Water is immense and it’s certainly not going away any time soon. So you always have to wonder going into a film like this, will it meet these expectations or fall beneath them leaving you disappointed. Absolutely not, it really does exceed all expectations. A truly magical twist on the traditional fairy tale. Sally Hawkins and Doug Jones are exceptional, along with a great supporting cast from Michael Shannon, Richard Jenkins and Octavia Spencer. Guillermo del Toro has somehow managed to outdo himself yet again. Everything about The Shape of Water is there to fully immerse you in the story. From the wonderful movie soundtrack by Alexandre Desplat to the cinematography and set designs. The attention to detail is perfect. A while ago I claimed Crimson Peak was del Toro’s best English language film, well move over because The Shape of Water has just taken that spot.

Set in a secret research facility in the 1960s, a cleaner (Sally Hawkins) forms a unique relationship with an amphibious creature (Doug Jones) being held captive. The most beautiful and enchanting film I’ve seen in years. You can’t help but fall in love with this story and I loved every minute of The Shape of Water. Every supporting character has their moment, Octavia Spencer and Richard Jenkins are sure to make you giggle at least once. But as for Michael Shannon, he plays a bad guy in such a way that you despise him so much, he’s simply rotten to the core. This part was written for him and it clearly shows. Sally Hawkins gives such an emotional performance without saying a word, so if you’re the type I guarantee you’ll be reduced to tears at some point. Not that I care so much for the awards but she should have an Oscar for that performance no problem. Doug Jones is perhaps the most versatile actor of this generation, he is unrecognisable in a role, so unrecognisable you may think you don’t even know who he is but believe me you do, and now he has become a completely different creature yet again. An unforgettable and completely enthralling experience. It may not be for everyone but if you like things a little quirky then under no circumstance should you miss The Shape of Water.

The perfect way to lose yourself in a movie that will dazzle you with its sheer beauty. It’s hard to compare it to anything else, like a dream inside Guillermo del Toro’s imagination. A love story with a twist. Unique, magical, brilliant. Don’t let the fact that I’m a huge del Toro fan influence you in any way I wouldn’t call a movie amazing if I didn’t mean it. If I give a film 10/10 you can bet it deserves it and The Shape of Water deserves everything it has coming to it, I cannot wait to see it again.… Expand

4 of 12 users found this helpful48

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10

ConorMacleodJan 18, 2018

A beautifully dark and magical americanised fairy-tale that really brings out the best in its cast, direction from Guillermo del Toro and amazing production work.

3 of 9 users found this helpful36

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9

HucksterJan 18, 2018

A very engaging film with all the hallmarks of del Toro's great attention to detail. Certainly a strange and intriguing tale which in some ways reminds slightly of Pan's Labyrinth. The performances are first class all round and the fact thatA very engaging film with all the hallmarks of del Toro's great attention to detail. Certainly a strange and intriguing tale which in some ways reminds slightly of Pan's Labyrinth. The performances are first class all round and the fact that he uses character actors who are not mainstream lends much greater realism and grit. A very satisfying film unlike anything seen before. A new twist on love.… Expand

3 of 10 users found this helpful37

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The Shape of Water

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