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Film Encyclopedia Entry 1778884444

** "The Shape of Water" is a 2017 American romantic fantasy film directed by **Guillermo del Toro**, which won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and is a masterpiece of visual storytelling, blending fantasy and historical drama. ## Overview "The Shape of Water" is a mesmerizing film that tells the story of Elisa Esposito, a mute janitor who falls in love with an amphibious creature being held captive in a government laboratory. The film is a beautiful and poignant tale of acceptance, love, and the power of human connection. Set in 1962 Baltimore, the film is a nostalgic tribute to the classic Hollywood musicals and the works of **H.G. Wells** and **H.P. Lovecraft**. Del Toro's direction is a masterclass in atmosphere and tension, using a combination of practical and visual effects to bring the fantastical world to life. The film features a talented ensemble cast, including **Sally Hawkins**, **Michael Shannon**, and **Richard Jenkins**, who deliver nuanced and emotionally charged performances. The film's score, composed by **Alexandre Desplat**, is a sweeping and romantic accompaniment to the on-screen action, perfectly capturing the mood and atmosphere of the film. ## History/Background Guillermo del Toro had been developing the idea for "The Shape of Water" for over 20 years, drawing inspiration from his own experiences as a child, growing up in Mexico City. He was fascinated by the idea of a creature that was both beautiful and monstrous, and the ways in which society reacts to those who are different. Del Toro has stated that he was influenced by the works of **Fritz Lang** and **Jean Cocteau**, as well as the classic Hollywood musicals of the 1940s and 1950s. The film was shot on location in Toronto, Canada, and features a combination of practical and visual effects. Del Toro worked closely with his production designer, **Paul Austerberry**, to create the film's elaborate sets and costumes, which are a testament to the film's nostalgic and retro aesthetic. ## Key Information - **Release Date:** December 1, 2017 - **Production Company:** Fox Searchlight Pictures - **Budget:** $19 million - **Box Office:** $195 million - **Awards:** 4 Academy Awards (Best Picture, Best Director, Best Production Design, Best Original Score) - **Nominations:** 13 Academy Award nominations - **Golden Globe Awards:** 2 wins (Best Director, Best Original Score) ## Significance "The Shape of Water" is a significant film for a number of reasons. Firstly, it marked a major comeback for Guillermo del Toro, who had been struggling to find success in Hollywood after the release of his 2013 film "Pacific Rim". The film's success also marked a major turning point for Fox Searchlight Pictures, which had been struggling to find its place in the film industry. The film's themes of acceptance and love are also significant, particularly in the context of the current social and cultural climate. The film's portrayal of a mute woman falling in love with an amphibious creature is a powerful metaphor for the ways in which society reacts to those who are different, and the importance of acceptance and understanding. INFOBOX: - **Name:** The Shape of Water - **Type:** Romantic Fantasy Film - **Date:** 2017 - **Location:** Toronto, Canada - **Known For:** Winning four Academy Awards, including Best Picture TAGS: **Guillermo del Toro**, **The Shape of Water**, **Romantic Fantasy**, **Academy Awards**, **Best Picture**, **Fantasy Film**, **Historical Drama**, **Visual Effects**, **Classic Hollywood**, **H.G. Wells**, **H.P. Lovecraft**.