Guillermo del Toro’s tribute to The Creature From the Black Lagoon features Sally Hawkins as a mute who falls in love with the bizarre creature being tortured by Michael Shannon in a secret Government facility. Hawkins and Octavia Spencer work as cleaners. But they witness the cruelty and decide to do something about it. The Shape of Water looks gorgeous. But, I was disappointed that there were no surprises. Very predictable plot. I wish del Toro had taken a few more risks. The elements for a Great Film are here, but the result just doesn’t jell. GRADE: B
I kind of have to agree with you. It looked good, the acting was fine but the plot was a bit simplistic. Not nearly as good as Pan’s Labyrinth.
Steve, I had higher expectations for THE SHAPE OF WATER. There should have been more HELLBOY in this film.
Loved, loved, loved PAN’S LABYRINTH. We’re seeing STAR WARS today so will see this next week. Sorry to hear the so so review.
HELLBOY is Jackie’s favorite of his movies.
Jeff, THE SHAPE OF WATER looks great on the screen. But the plot is very so-so.
I couldn’t get into Pan’s Labyrinth. I’ll try to give it another go soon
This sounds very good, but I’m much more in need of musicals or comedies.
Maggie, I’d love to watch a musical or a comedy, but Hollywood rarely makes them anymore. It’s all Super Hero movies.
\I am so sick of the evil scientists in these movies. There must be a better way to insert conflict.
Patti, I agree with you. I was appalled at the gruesome torture in THE SHAPE OF WATER.
I have no interest in this movie.
No torture, please!
Beth, when the Bad Guy shows up with an electric cattle prod, THE SHAPE OF WATER started to go off the rails for me.
Sounds to me like a strange mixture of horror and romantic comedy – what’s the audience for this?
Wolf, I suspect THE SHAPE OF WATER would appeal to the audience for THE SWAMP THING or BEAUTY AND THE BEAST.
I know lots of people who loved it. And I could have loved it without the torture and evil Michael Shannon.
Patti, the electric cattle prod was a Bridge Too Far for me.