The Shape of Water

Definition

The Shape of Water is a film directed by Guillermo del Toro that tells the story of a mute woman and her relationship with a mysterious aquatic creature held in a government laboratory during the Cold War era. This film explores themes of disability, love, and acceptance, presenting characters who challenge societal norms and expectations, particularly regarding disability and otherness. The film emphasizes the importance of communication beyond words and invites viewers to reconsider traditional narratives around both love and the representation of marginalized identities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The protagonist, Elisa, is portrayed as a mute woman, representing disability in a nuanced way that transcends traditional narratives.
2. The film challenges the conventional notions of beauty and monstrosity, showcasing how love can exist between seemingly different beings.
3. Elisa's relationship with the aquatic creature symbolizes acceptance and understanding, illustrating how communication can take many forms beyond spoken language.
4. The Shape of Water won several awards, including the Academy Award for Best Picture, highlighting its impact on the discourse surrounding disability and representation.
5. The film serves as a critique of societal norms during the Cold War era, reflecting on themes of fear, isolation, and the longing for connection among marginalized individuals.

Review Questions

• How does The Shape of Water challenge traditional representations of disability through its main character?
  • The Shape of Water presents Elisa, a mute woman, in a way that humanizes her disability instead of portraying it as a limitation. By focusing on her strengths, desires, and her ability to communicate with the aquatic creature, the film breaks away from typical narratives that often depict disabled individuals as tragic or helpless. Instead, it emphasizes her agency and capacity for love, thereby challenging audiences to rethink their perceptions of disability.
• In what ways does The Shape of Water explore the theme of otherness in relation to its characters?
  • The Shape of Water delves into the theme of otherness by portraying both Elisa and the aquatic creature as marginalized figures within society. Their bond highlights how societal norms can alienate those who are different. Through their relationship, the film advocates for empathy and understanding towards those considered 'other,' showing that love can flourish despite societal prejudices. This exploration serves to question who is truly monstrous and who is human.
• Evaluate how The Shape of Water uses non-verbal communication to convey deeper meanings about connection and identity.
  • The Shape of Water effectively utilizes non-verbal communication to deepen its exploration of identity and connection between characters. Since Elisa is mute, her interactions with the aquatic creature rely heavily on gestures, facial expressions, and body language. This reliance on non-verbal cues not only emphasizes the significance of understanding and emotional connection beyond spoken language but also allows viewers to engage more intimately with themes of isolation and companionship. By showcasing how profound connections can form without words, the film elevates the concept of identity beyond mere labels or abilities.

Related terms

Disability Representation: The portrayal of individuals with disabilities in media, which can either reinforce stereotypes or challenge societal perceptions.

Otherness: A concept that refers to the perception of individuals or groups as different from the dominant culture, often leading to exclusion or marginalization.

Interpersonal Communication: The exchange of information and feelings between individuals, which can occur through verbal and non-verbal means.