The Greenlight Behind The Shape of Water: From Fan Fandom to Iconic Film
The Greenlight Behind The Shape of Water: From Fan Fandom to Iconic Film
From Guillermo del Toro's Early Interest to the Golden Globe and Academy-Award Winning Success
Guillermo del Toro is a filmmaker known for his passion for Universal Monsters, particularly the Gill-Man. This fascination has always been a driving force in his work, as evidenced by his creation of the character, Abe Sapien, in Hellboy. In 2016, Universal offered Del Toro a chance to take on a version of The Creature from the Black Lagoon as part of their 'Dark Universe' franchise. However, the failure of The Mummy put an end to these plans. It was during this time that Del Toro began developing the story that would eventually become The Shape of Water.
From Inspiration to Reality
Del Toro's long-held interest in the Gill-Man and his experiences working on Hellboy set the stage for what would become one of the most fascinating and soulful cinematic experiences of recent years. The story of The Shape of Water is a blend of fantasy, romance, and science fiction, centered around a woman named Elisa (played by Sally Hawkins) who works for the government. Her relationship with a secret amphibious creature (portrayed by Doug Jones) challenges her beliefs and perceptions, leading to a powerful emotional journey.
The Behind-the-Scenes Story
The wiki page of the movie provides an extensive look into the production of The Shape of Water. This includes details on the casting, the design of the creatures, the challenges faced during filming, and the post-production work that went into bringing the story to life. From the early development of the concept to the final cut, the journey of The Shape of Water is a testament to the dedication of everyone involved in its creation.
Post-Watching Reflections
Not only is The Shape of Water a seamless blend of genre elements, it is also a profound exploration of love, acceptance, and the beauty of differences. My personal experience with the film is captured in an article I wrote on my blog, a unique account of the emotional and intellectual journey it takes the viewer on. While a traditional movie review, this piece offers a more intimate look at the film's impact on the audience, delving into the themes and messages that Del Toro wanted to convey.
Award-Worthy Success
The Shape of Water went on to win the prestigious Academy Award for Best Picture in 2018, among a host of other accolades. The film's success is a clear indication of its impact on both critics and viewers. The adaptation of Del Toro's vision into a reality, from his childhood fascination with Universal Monsters to the global acclaim it received, is a true testament to the power of storytelling and the ingenuity of filmmakers. Del Toro’s love for the Gill-Man and his ability to translate this into a compelling cinematic experience is a shining example of the potential that passion and creativity hold in the entertainment industry.
For fans of Universal Monsters, The Shape of Water is a must-watch. It offers a fresh perspective on well-known characters and themes, while also pushing the boundaries of what can be accomplished in the realm of fantasy and science fiction. Del Toro's work on this film is a perfect blend of personal passion and artistic innovation, resulting in a cinematic experience that is both memorable and profoundly moving.