Analysis of 'The Shape of Water' and 'Swamp Thing' – Unveiling the Differences

The Shape of Water has been a subject of much hype and anticipation in recent years, with audiences and critics alike eagerly awaiting its release. Directed by Guillermo del Toro, the film captures a mythical and forbidden romance between the leading lady, Elisa, and the fish-man, DBNull (played by Doug Jones). This article delves into a detailed comparison between The Shape of Water (2017) and Swamp Thing (1982).

Overview of 'The Shape of Water'

The plot of The Shape of Water revolves around a mute janitor at a government facility, Elisa (played by Sally Hawkins), who falls in love with a captured, amphibious creature. With the help of her friends, she rescues the creature, taking him to her apartment where they explore their unconventional relationship. The film culminates in a tragic and heroic escape to the ocean, symbolizing the triumph of love over oppression.

Comparison with 'Splash (1984)'

Before we delve into the differences, it’s essential to recognize the significant similarities between The Shape of Water and the classic 1984 film, Splash. Both films explore the themes of mythical romance and forbidden relationships, but they vary in tone and content.

Comedy vs. Drama

Splash (1984) is a romantic comedy, featuring a mermaid named Melissa (played by Daryl Hannah), a man named Allen Bauer (Tom Hanks) who rescues her, and a series of comedic and absurd situations. In contrast, The Shape of Water is a somber, dramatic romance. While both protagonists experience love and are forced to navigate complex situations, the emotional depth and gravitas in The Shape of Water make it a darker, more nuanced exploration of the human experience.

The Absence of Similarities with 'Swamp Thing'

Swamp Thing (1982), on the other hand, stands in stark contrast to both Splash and The Shape of Water. Not only is Swamp Thing a horror film with a completely different premise, but its tone, style, and thematic elements are vastly different from the romantic and metaphorical narratives of the other two films.

Horror vs. Romance

Swamp Thing (1982) is a psychological horror film that features an ordinary man, Bennie Langston (Ashley); an albino swamp monster, Swamp Thing (Kevin (aka Swamp Thing)); and a grotesque, arachnoid antagonist, Doctor Oldman (E. G. Marshall). The story focuses on the transformation and struggles of Swamp Thing, exploring themes of trauma, self-discovery, and the consequences of experimentation.

Difference in Setting and Themes

The setting of Swamp Thing is entirely different from that of The Shape of Water. While Swamp Thing is set in the murky, dangerous swamps of Louisiana, The Shape of Water is set in a sterile, urban government facility. The thematic elements of Swamp Thing also diverge significantly from The Shape of Water. In Swamp Thing, there is a strong emphasis on the transformation and the struggle for self-acceptance, whereas The Shape of Water focuses more on a transformative love story.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while The Shape of Water and Splash (1984) share thematic and narrative similarities, they differ significantly in tone, setting, and emotional depth. In contrast to both The Shape of Water and Swamp Thing (1982), Swamp Thing (1982) offers a distinctive horror narrative that focuses on transformation, trauma, and the search for identity in a dangerous and menacing environment.