The Shape of Water

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Andrew A it was just a fun story that put a smile on my face. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 10/01/24 Full Review Michael M. I certainly won't forget this movie any time soon. Rated 4/5 Stars •  Rated 4 out of 5 stars 10/24/25 Full Review TheMovieSearch R The Shape of Water, directed by Guillermo del Toro and starring Sally Hawkins, Michael Shannon, and Octavia Spencer, is a film that is as imaginative as it is divisive. It’s a story layered with artistry, atmosphere, and bold choices, all wrapped in the kind of dark fairy tale style that only del Toro can pull off. Guillermo del Toro’s direction is nothing short of masterful. He knows how to weave a story that feels otherworldly yet grounded in real human emotion. The cinematography and lighting are hauntingly beautiful, painting the screen with shadows, muted colors, and a sense of melancholy that fits the narrative perfectly. It’s a film that demands attention and rewards those who surrender to its rhythm. That being said, The Shape of Water is absolutely an acquired taste. For me, while I was invested throughout my first watch, it was not something I could revisit again and again. The central love story between a mute woman and a mysterious amphibious creature is unconventional to say the least. While others may find it touching, moving, and symbolic, for me it was difficult to get behind the idea of intimacy between a woman and a fish-like man. It’s not that the film is “bad”—far from it—it’s simply one of those stories that either resonates deeply or doesn’t quite sit right with you. The performances elevate the material. Sally Hawkins is brilliant, effortlessly shifting between vulnerability, humor, and determination. She makes her character believable and sympathetic even in the strangest moments. Michael Shannon delivers a chilling performance as the antagonist, adding intensity and menace. And Octavia Spencer, as always, brings both heart and strength, providing balance to the darker edges of the story. Ultimately, The Shape of Water is a piece of cinema that I respect more than I personally love. Guillermo del Toro is a visionary director—quirky, bold, and unafraid to dive into the bizarre. His films often leave me impressed but not eager to revisit, and this one is no exception. Still, I recommend that everyone experience it at least once. It’s a unique work of art that pushes boundaries, challenges expectations, and—love it or not—leaves an impression you won’t soon forget. Rated 4/5 Stars •  Rated 4 out of 5 stars 09/22/25 Full Review Hector Adrian Q WOW WOW THIS MOVIE IS SO AWESOME 💯😎 I WE LIKE A SECOND PART YOU NEED TO WHACH THIS PICE OF ART 🎨.🍿👍👏❤️👏👏❤️🍷 Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 08/15/25 Full Review Mirocko B The second best origin story you will ever see. What a film! What a hoot. I will remember this fondly until my days end. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 08/12/25 Full Review Marcus S What a silly movie this was. Not really a faitytale, not really a dystopian drama. When the woman took sexual advantage of the fish creature, I gave up hoping the characters would display any relatable emotions. The cinematography is nice, and Michael Shannon gives a good performance within the limits of his character. Not worth you time! Rated 1/5 Stars •  Rated 1 out of 5 stars 08/05/25 Full Review Read all reviews

The Shape of Water

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