Explore the hidden gems and untold stories behind Guillermo del Toro’s acclaimed film, ‘The Shape of Water.’ From inspirations drawn from classic cinema to unique filming techniques, this compilation of 23 facts will take you on a journey through the creative process and production intricacies that contributed to the making of this enchanting cinematic experience.
1. Inspiration from Classic Cinema
Guillermo del Toro drew inspiration from the 1954 film “Creature from the Black Lagoon.” He envisioned a romantic twist where the creature and the female lead triumph in love. This idea spun the captivating narrative of ‘The Shape of Water,’ a film that gracefully marries beauty and the bizarre. Del Toro’s artistic vision pays homage to the classic monster genre while offering a fresh perspective on unconventional relationships. His work challenges traditional storytelling by offering viewers a poignant love story carried by enchantment and mystery of the unknown.
2. Initial Black-and-White Consideration
Originally, del Toro planned to shoot ‘The Shape of Water’ in black and white, echoing classic monster movies. However, budget restrictions led him to adopt a vibrant color palette instead. The decision didn’t merely spring from financial necessity; it enhanced the storytelling through vivid imagery. Through color, del Toro could vividly depict emotions and themes, making the narrative more engaging. This choice highlights how creativity can flourish within constraints, turning limitations into opportunities to heighten visual storytelling and emotional depth in cinema.
3. Sally Hawkins’ Preparation
To embody Elisa, Sally Hawkins delved into the world of silent film comedians like Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton. She aimed to express emotion without words, capturing Elisa’s depth and spirit. This preparation allowed Hawkins to convey her character’s complex emotional landscape with grace and authenticity. Her performance brings profound empathy and connection to Elisa, making the audience feel every silent whisper of her soul. Hawkins’ dedication demonstrates the power of nonverbal storytelling and the timeless influence of silent film artistry in modern cinema.
4. Doug Jones’ Transformation
Doug Jones underwent an extraordinary transformation to become the Amphibian Man. Each day, three hours were dedicated to donning the intricate prosthetic suit, which he wore for up to 18 hours. This commitment resulted in a character that was both otherworldly and deeply human. Jones’ physical performance breathed life into the creature, allowing audiences to see beyond the exterior and delve into the emotions beneath. His portrayal exemplifies the artistry and dedication involved in bringing fantastical characters to life, blending meticulous craftsmanship with soulful expression.
5. Unique Underwater Filming Technique
The movie utilized a “dry-for-wet” technique to create its underwater scenes. Actors and props were suspended on wires, enveloped in smoke to mimic an aquatic ambience. Digital bubbles and debris were later added for realism. This innovative approach allowed the filmmakers to create a surreal underwater world without the complexities of actual water filming. The result was a visually stunning depiction of the deep, enhancing the film’s enchanting atmosphere. This technique spotlights the creative problem-solving involved in filmmaking, where illusion becomes reality.
6. Elgin Theatre Premiere
The Elgin Theatre in Toronto, a featured location in the film, was also the venue for its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. This historic site added authenticity and nostalgia to the film’s settings. The theater’s rich architectural history provided a perfect backdrop for the movie’s world, blending seamlessly with its unique aesthetic. Hosting the premiere there was a tribute to the film’s connection with Toronto, celebrating local collaboration and talent. This choice reflects del Toro’s appreciation for settings that enhance narrative depth.
7. Guillermo del Toro’s Pitch to Sally Hawkins
In an unorthodox pitch, Guillermo del Toro approached Sally Hawkins at the 2014 Golden Globes while under the influence. His passionate, albeit tipsy, presentation of the film’s vision intrigued Hawkins, who quickly embraced the role of Elisa. This unconventional meeting highlights del Toro’s fervent creative spirit and Hawkins’ openness to challenging roles. Their collaboration birthed a character that resonates with audiences, demonstrating the unpredictable paths that artistic partnerships can take. Such spontaneous moments often lead to the most fruitful and inspiring collaborations in cinema.
8. Richard Jenkins’ Role Inspiration
The character Giles was crafted with Ian McKellen in mind, influenced by his portrayal of director James Whale in “Gods and Monsters.” This inspiration led to a character with depth and compassion, perfectly embodied by Richard Jenkins. Giles serves as a poignant figure of friendship and acceptance in the film. Drawing from such esteemed sources illustrates the layers of creativity involved in character development, where influences from one role can breathe life into another. Jenkins’ portrayal enriches the film’s tapestry with wisdom and warmth.
9. Unscripted Car Incident
While filming, Michael Shannon’s character unintentionally crashed into a telegraph pole during an aggressive driving scene. This unscripted moment was retained by del Toro, enhancing the character’s volatile nature. The authenticity of the crash scene added a layer of realism to the film, reflecting the unpredictable chaos of the character’s mind. Such off-script moments capture genuine emotion and tension, enriching the storytelling. Del Toro’s decision to keep this take underscores the value of spontaneity and realism in cinematic storytelling.
10. Creature’s Nickname
Affectionately nicknamed “Charlie” by the crew, the Amphibian Man was inspired by Charlie the Tuna from StarKist commercials. This playful moniker reflects the camaraderie and humor present during the film’s production. By humanizing the creature with a simple nickname, the crew fostered a sense of familiarity and warmth on set. Such endearing details highlight the collaborative spirit of filmmaking, where even the most fantastical elements are grounded by human connection and creativity. “Charlie” became a beloved member of the film’s fictional world.
11. Composer Alexandre Desplat’s Approach
Alexandre Desplat composed the film’s score in just six weeks, crafting a soundscape that is tender, warm, and fragile. His music beautifully mirrors the themes of love and water, adding an emotional layer to the narrative. Desplat’s swift yet meticulous process demonstrates the art of translating visual emotions into auditory experiences. The score’s gentle melodies enhance the film’s dreamlike atmosphere, drawing audiences into its world. His dedication to the project exemplifies the seamless fusion of music and storytelling, where sound becomes an integral character.
12. Filming Locations
Principal photography for ‘The Shape of Water’ occurred in Toronto and Hamilton, Ontario. Iconic locations like the Elgin Theatre and the University of Toronto Scarborough’s Humanities Wing played significant roles. These places offered authenticity and character, seamlessly blending with the film’s unique aesthetic. The choice of locations reflects del Toro’s commitment to grounding his fantastical narratives in real-world settings, enriching the film’s visual and emotional depth. This approach underscores the importance of location in shaping the story’s atmosphere and enhancing its immersive quality.
13. Del Toro’s Cameo
Guillermo del Toro lent his voice to the Amphibian Man’s underwater sounds, adding a personal touch to the creature’s character. This cameo exemplifies del Toro’s hands-on approach to filmmaking, where his creative influence permeates every aspect of production. By contributing his own voice, del Toro deepened the connection between creator and creation, infusing the creature with an element of his artistic identity. This detail offers insight into the depth of involvement and passion del Toro brings to his projects, crafting stories rich in personal significance.
14. Silent Film Homage
‘The Shape of Water’ pays homage to silent films, notably through Elisa’s communication via sign language and expressive gestures. This stylistic choice mirrors the emotive power of silent cinema, where actions speak louder than words. By embracing this approach, the film underscores the universality of human emotions, transcending language barriers. Hawkins’ performance as Elisa resonates with the timeless art of silent storytelling, connecting with audiences on a primal level. This tribute highlights the enduring influence of early cinema on modern filmmaking, where silence speaks volumes.
15. Color as a Narrative Tool
Opting for color rather than black and white, del Toro used palette as a narrative device. The hues in ‘The Shape of Water’ are not merely decorative but integral to storytelling. Colors convey mood, emotion, and thematic resonance, enhancing the film’s rich narrative tapestry. This creative decision illustrates how visual elements can articulate nuances that words alone cannot. By using color strategically, del Toro breathes life into scenes, highlighting emotional currents that guide the audience through the story. This technique enriches the cinematic experience with visual poetry.
16. Elisa’s Backstory
Elisa’s character was crafted with Sally Hawkins in mind, envisioned by del Toro as a woman of enigmatic beauty and ethereal presence. Her backstory, subtly hinted at in the film, suggests a connection to the aquatic world, with ambiguous scars on her neck resembling gills. This mystery surrounding her origin adds an intriguing layer to her character, inviting audiences to ponder her true nature. By blending elements of fantasy and reality, del Toro creates a protagonist who captivates with her silent strength and otherworldly allure.
17. Octavia Spencer’s Role
Eager to collaborate with del Toro, Octavia Spencer accepted any role offered, which led to her portrayal of Zelda, Elisa’s confidante. Spencer’s performance brought warmth and humor to the film, creating a dynamic friendship that resonates with audiences. Her character not only supports Elisa but also enriches the narrative with moments of levity and heart. Spencer’s willingness to embrace any challenge reflects her versatility and commitment to storytelling. This role highlights the importance of strong supporting characters, who add depth and dimension to the cinematic landscape.
18. Homage to Classic Musicals
The film features a dream sequence where Elisa dances with the Amphibian Man, a nod to the 1936 musical ‘Follow the Fleet.’ This scene pays tribute to the golden age of musicals, weaving elements of fantasy and nostalgia into the narrative. The choreography and set design echo the elegance and charm of classic Hollywood, transporting viewers to an era of cinematic splendor. By integrating this homage, del Toro enriches the film’s tapestry with layers of cultural references, celebrating the timeless allure of song and dance in storytelling.
19. Elisa’s Mysterious Past
Hints within the film suggest that Elisa may not be entirely human, with scars on her neck possibly indicating gills. This subtle detail adds depth to her character, inviting speculation about her origins and connection to the aquatic world. Del Toro’s storytelling thrives on such mysteries, allowing viewers to ponder the possibilities beyond the screen. This layer of intrigue deepens the film’s narrative, ensuring that Elisa’s journey resonates with complexity and wonder. Her enigmatic past is a testament to del Toro’s masterful weaving of fantasy and realism.
20. Del Toro’s Personal Touch
Guillermo del Toro imbued ‘The Shape of Water’ with personal significance by setting a pivotal event on his birthday, October 10th. This detail underscores the intimate connection between the filmmaker and his work, where personal milestones intertwine with fictional narratives. Such touches add layers of authenticity and heart to the storytelling, inviting audiences to glimpse the artist’s soul. Del Toro’s creative signature is evident throughout the film, where personal history and imagination merge to craft a story that is both universal and deeply personal.
21. Creature’s Healing Powers
The Amphibian Man’s green hand possesses healing abilities, contrasting sharply with the infection and decay associated with Strickland’s character. This juxtaposition highlights themes of regeneration versus destruction, echoing the film’s exploration of love and fear. The creature’s touch symbolizes hope and renewal, offering solace in a world marred by conflict. Del Toro masterfully weaves these elements into the narrative, creating a character that embodies both the alien and the divine. The healing power serves as a metaphor for the transformative nature of love and acceptance.
22. Underwater Filming Challenges
Creating underwater scenes posed challenges, solved by using the innovative “dry-for-wet” technique. Actors were suspended on wires, with smoke effects simulating water. This method allowed the filmmakers to craft a dreamlike, underwater realm without the logistical difficulties of actual water. The technique adds an ethereal quality to the film, enhancing its magical realism. This approach underscores the ingenuity and creativity inherent in filmmaking, where visual effects become storytellers in their own right. The results are a testament to the power of imagination and technical skill.
23. Richard Jenkins’ Role Inspiration
Richard Jenkins’ portrayal of Giles was influenced by Ian McKellen’s role in “Gods and Monsters.” This inspiration led to a character rich in empathy and wisdom, serving as a grounding presence in the film. Jenkins’ nuanced performance breathes life into Giles, making him a beloved figure of friendship and understanding. The character’s depth stems from blending past cinematic influences with unique personal interpretation. Jenkins’ role exemplifies the collaborative nature of filmmaking, where past and present performances intermingle to create characters that resonate with authenticity and humanity.
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