Set in Baltimore during the early 1960s, The Shape of Water follows Elisa, a lonely mute janitor working at a secret government research facility who discovers and forms a profound bond with a mysterious amphibious creature being held captive there. Directed by Guillermo del Toro, the film is a visually lush, dark fairy tale that explores themes of otherness, loneliness, and the transformative power of love. The film was praised for its imaginative storytelling, stunning visuals, and Sally Hawkins' deeply expressive performance, ultimately winning the Academy Award for Best Picture in 2018.
Del Toro films a Cold War lab and the amphibian man held there. The film is the genre as love letter; the magic costs language.
An essential entry — The Shape of Water embodies exactly what this collection is about.