THE SHAPE OF WATER: Nominated for seven Golden Globes, including Best Picture and Best Director (Guillermo del Toro) this is undoubtedly the most unusual film you will see this year. And it may be the most brilliant concept ever. Without giving too much away, I will tell you this is simply a love story. But a love story between a mute girl and a creature (think "Black Lagoon") who has been brought to Baltimore during the cold war of the early 1960's for scientific study by our government. (And treated quite cruelly, I might add) Sally Hawkins (GG nominee) plays the girl, Elisa who works as a night janitor in the government facility. When she discovers the creature, she is not frightened but fascinated by the strange being (played admirably by Doug Jones in fabulous make-up). Octavia Spencer is Elisa's friend, Zelda and a GG nominee for supporting actress. Also on board is Richard Jenkins as her gay neighbor and Michael Shannon as the villain in the piece. I was absolutely mesmerized by this film and its subtle message about the misfits that live among us. But are they the misfits or are we? Sure to be an Oscar contender as well, this should be one on your list. Unusual? Yes. Superb movie making? Most assuredly!
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