The Shape of Water (2017) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
The Shape of Water (2017), directed by Guillermo del Toro, is a critically acclaimed fantasy romance that blends fairy tale elements with poignant social commentary. Known for its unique and visually stunning storytelling, the film explores themes of love, loneliness, and acceptance through an imaginative and heartfelt narrative.
In this review, we’ll examine the film’s plot, performances, direction, and overall impact, and provide information on where to watch The Shape of Water online, particularly in the United States.
Plot Summary
The Shape of Water is set in the early 1960s and follows Elisa Esposito (played by Sally Hawkins), a mute woman who works as a cleaning lady at a high-security government laboratory. Elisa’s life changes dramatically when she discovers a mysterious amphibious creature (played by Doug Jones) being held captive in the lab.
As Elisa forms a deep bond with the creature, she learns about its plight and decides to help it escape from captivity. The film explores the developing relationship between Elisa and the creature, highlighting themes of love and communication beyond conventional boundaries. The story also delves into the broader context of Elisa’s struggles against societal norms and personal isolation.
The narrative combines elements of romance, fantasy, and thriller, with a backdrop of Cold War-era tensions and societal challenges.
Performances
- Sally Hawkins as Elisa Esposito: Hawkins delivers a standout performance as Elisa, capturing the character’s vulnerability, strength, and emotional depth. Her portrayal of Elisa’s silent yet expressive nature is both touching and powerful.
- Doug Jones as the Amphibian Man: Jones brings the creature to life with a combination of physical performance and motion capture. His portrayal is both mystical and empathetic, conveying a range of emotions through the character’s non-verbal communication.
- Michael Shannon as Richard Strickland: Shannon plays the film’s antagonist, a government agent who is determined to exploit the amphibian creature. His performance adds tension and conflict to the story, contrasting with the film’s more tender moments.
- Octavia Spencer as Zelda Delilah: Spencer plays Elisa’s friend and coworker, adding warmth and humor to the film. Her character provides support and camaraderie, enhancing the emotional depth of the story.
- Richard Jenkins as Giles: Jenkins portrays Elisa’s neighbor and friend, providing emotional support and adding to the film’s exploration of human connection and isolation.
Direction and Cinematography
Guillermo del Toro’s direction in The Shape of Water is marked by its imaginative and visually captivating approach. Del Toro’s use of fantasy elements, combined with a richly detailed period setting, creates a unique and immersive cinematic experience.
The film’s cinematography, by Dan Laustsen, complements del Toro’s vision with its lush and evocative visuals. The use of color, lighting, and camera work enhances the film’s fairy-tale atmosphere and emotional impact. The underwater sequences and magical elements are particularly striking, contributing to the film’s overall enchantment.
Themes and Storytelling
The Shape of Water explores themes of love, acceptance, and the search for connection. The film’s central romance between Elisa and the amphibian creature challenges conventional notions of beauty and normalcy, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding.
The storytelling balances fantasy and reality, blending elements of fairy tale romance with a poignant examination of societal issues and personal struggles. The film’s approach to love and communication transcends traditional boundaries, offering a fresh and thought-provoking perspective.
Where to Watch The Shape of Water Online
For viewers in the United States interested in watching The Shape of Water, the film is available on several platforms:
Streaming Services
- Hulu – The Shape of Water may be available for streaming on Hulu, depending on current licensing agreements.
- Disney+ – As a 20th Century Fox film, it may also be available on Disney+ due to Disney’s acquisition of Fox.
Rental and Purchase Options
If streaming options are not available, consider renting or purchasing the film through:
- Amazon Prime Video – Available for rent or purchase in HD, with options for digital download.
- Apple TV – Offers rental and purchase options in HD.
- Google Play Movies & TV – Provides rental and purchase options.
- YouTube Movies – Another option for renting or purchasing.
- Vudu – Offers rental and purchase options, often with deals on recent releases and popular films.
- Microsoft Store – Available for rent or purchase through the Microsoft Store.
Availability and Regional Considerations
The availability of The Shape of Water may vary by region and platform. If the film is not available in your area, using a VPN could help access the film from regions where it is offered. Be sure to review each platform’s terms of service regarding VPN usage.
Final Thoughts
The Shape of Water is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that combines elements of fantasy, romance, and social commentary. Guillermo del Toro’s imaginative direction, along with strong performances from the cast, creates a unique and memorable cinematic experience.
Whether you’re drawn to its fairy-tale romance or its exploration of deeper themes, The Shape of Water offers a captivating and heartfelt story. With various streaming and rental options available, it’s easy to experience the magic and beauty of this acclaimed film.
