The Shape of Water

The Shape of Water

Movie • 2017

A fairy tale for troubled times.

An other-worldly story, set against the backdrop of Cold War era America circa 1962, where a mute janitor working at a lab falls in love with an amphibious man being held captive there and devises a plan to help him escape.

Drama
Fantasy
Romance
123 minutes
Released

Bara says...

Ages 17+, but every child is different

This film features explicit sexual content, full nudity, and intense, graphic violence unsuitable for younger audiences. The mature themes demand a level of emotional and developmental maturity typically associated with older teenagers and adults.

Content Safety Breakdown

Detailed breakdown of potentially concerning content

Sex & Nudity

4/5

The film features full-frontal nudity and depicts a sexual relationship between the main characters. It includes mature themes of intimacy and sexual desire that are intended for an adult audience.

Violence & Gore

4/5

The movie contains several scenes of graphic violence, including bloody injuries, self-mutilation, and realistic depictions of physical combat. There are moments of intense, visceral gore that may be disturbing to viewers.

Profanity

4/5

The film features frequent, strong language throughout, including the use of f*ck (multiple times), sh*t, and various anatomical swear words used in heated arguments and casual expressions of frustration.

Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking

2/5

Characters are frequently seen consuming alcohol, specifically whiskey, in social and domestic settings. Smoking also occurs periodically, reflecting the cultural norms of its 1962 setting.

Frightening Scenes

3/5

The film includes a dark, suspenseful atmosphere with unnerving creature designs and several high-stakes, stressful encounters. Its tone is consistently moody and contains scenes of psychological tension and bodily harm.

Key Insights

Quick summary and important considerations

This is a serious, grown-up fairy tale about finding beauty in unusual places and the power of standing up for others, featuring intense scenes not meant for young viewers.

Content Warnings

Graphic violence
Strong sexual content
Animal abuse

Detailed Analysis

In-depth insights for parents and educators

What Parents Need to Know

Expect graphic gore, including sequences involving physical trauma, and frank depictions of sexual intimacy. The film maintains a dark, atmospheric tone with frequent profanity.

What Kids Can Learn

Viewers can reflect on societal attitudes toward difference, the necessity of standing against institutional cruelty, and the power of silent communication.

Key Topics Discussed

Social isolation
Institutional power
Human rights

Why Parents Might Like It

Sophisticated visuals, masterful storytelling, and a poignant exploration of loneliness make this a compelling, high-art cinematic experience.

Positives & Learning

What makes this content valuable for children

Positive Messages

4/5

Emphasizes the importance of empathy, non-verbal connection, and the inherent value of those marginalized by society.

Positive Role Models

4/5

The protagonist demonstrates deep compassion, courage, and self-sacrifice, prioritizing kindness and integrity over personal comfort.

Diverse Representations

5/5

Features nuanced portrayals of a woman with a disability, working-class individuals, and members of minority groups, providing them with significant agency and complex interior lives.

Educational Value

2/5

Offers insights into the social and political atmosphere of 1960s Cold War America and the struggles faced by marginalized individuals during that period.

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