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 mature themes including graphic violence, strong sexual content, and explicit language. Its complex emotional tone and dark, R-rated nature make it unsuitable for audiences younger than late adolescence.

Content Safety Breakdown

Detailed breakdown of potentially concerning content

Sex & Nudity

4/5

The film features full-frontal female nudity, as well as scenes depicting sexual intimacy between the lead characters.

Violence & Gore

4/5

The movie contains scenes of graphic violence, including blood, physical injuries, and a disturbing sequence involving severed fingers and facial trauma.

Profanity

4/5

Strong language is used throughout the film, including the frequent use of f*ck (over 10 times), sh*t (frequent), and d*mn (occasional), usually used in moments of anger or frustration.

Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking

2/5

The characters are frequently seen consuming alcohol and smoking cigarettes, which reflects the historical setting of the early 1960s.

Frightening Scenes

3/5

The film contains dark, atmospheric tension and scenes depicting the cruel treatment of a creature, which may be disturbing for younger or more sensitive viewers.

Key Insights

Quick summary and important considerations

This is a serious, mature dark fairy tale about why it is important to treat all living things with kindness and respect.

Content Warnings

Graphic violence
Sexual content
Animal cruelty

Detailed Analysis

In-depth insights for parents and educators

What Parents Need to Know

Contains frequent strong profanity, graphic bloody violence, and explicit scenes involving sexual intercourse and nudity throughout the narrative.

What Kids Can Learn

Viewers can reflect on the ethical treatment of others and the historical struggle for equality in mid-century America.

Key Topics Discussed

Cold War era
Institutional ethics
Human rights

Why Parents Might Like It

The film offers a visually stunning, artistically directed exploration of loneliness and human connection that resonates with mature audiences.

Positives & Learning

What makes this content valuable for children

Positive Messages

4/5

Emphasizes the importance of empathy, unconditional acceptance, and standing up against institutional cruelty.

Positive Role Models

4/5

The protagonist demonstrates profound kindness, resilience, and courage by protecting the vulnerable against powerful, corrupt figures.

Diverse Representations

5/5

Features a mute protagonist, an African American coworker, and an older gay man, all portrayed with significant agency and character depth.

Educational Value

2/5

Provides historical context regarding 1960s Cold War social pressures and workplace discrimination.

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