Water for Elephants: Review By Bawnian©-Dexeus

Water for Elephants is a 2011 romantic drama film.

Directed by: Francis Lawrence.

Starring: Robert Pattinson, Christoph Waltz and Reese Witherspoon.

Based on a historical novel by Sara Gruen.

The story is told as a series of memories by Jacob Jankowski, a man who's reached the age of 90-93, who arrives to a circus in the middle of a rainy night. While the owner tries to locate the home where he came from, Jacob tells of his life with the Benzini Brothers and about the woman who changed his world.

First I would like to say, WOW. While not the star attraction of 2011, it managed to be the best opening act of the year, and one that will surly find a home at the Academy Awards. If ever you wanted t be told of a movie that was the reason why you love movies, the art, the beauty, the acting, the colors, and all of the rest, Water for Elephants proves to be that exact film that will constantly remind you of how it's really done. How a movie can be a success in every element of its creation: its actor's performances, its script and its auteur, the director. This film proves to be what Hollywood has to create every single year. Something that allows you to escape the nonsense and into the adventure. Most films can create worlds our of nothing ,but to actually use the concrete can take us a long way.

The Actors:

Robert Pattinson: Portraying Jacob Jankowski, I'm going to fair and really honest. Some have said that his performance in this movie was his best. Number one, I do agree that the Twilight series have held him back. Not much brilliant acting can be released from such poor script writing. Second, despite some of his neutral moments, it was a couple of scenes that actually made me see him in a new light. While he's a few more years away from Oscar worthy recognition, his performance was great. Those really emotionally driven scenes brought out some very interesting colors to his acting. He's got potential for greatness in the business. Mark Water for Elephants as what he should have started out with. More of these roles my man, for you can do better than your previous projects.

Christoph Waltz: For me, so far he has given us two unforgettable characters and an outstanding performance, while adding this one to the list. His role as Nazi Col. Hans Landa (both unforgettable and outstanding) and his comedic villainous approach to Green Hornet, Benjamin Chudnofsky/Bloodnofsky. As I have stated, adding to the list, the role of August Rosenbluth. If there was ever to name a scene in Inglorious Bastards that instantly imprinted in your mind how incredible this man is, had to have been the one where he's trying to locate the stowaways. And, forgive my spoiler, but for the few whom have seen it, the particular climatic period in Water for Elephants through his discovery of affair, that moment where all three main characters were present and he just toyed with them was outstanding. Reminded me what a real performance can look like and how far it reaches.

Reese Witherspoon: The ever beautiful an sensational. Her chemistry with not just Rob but with Christoph as well was perfect. Dazzling she was indeed portraying the role of Malena. With good training to be around animals, it felt like she was more of a mother to all creatures.

Rosie the Elephant: Even the animal I would consider a pivotal character. I loved watching the bond the characters formed with her in the film.

The Visuals:

The cinematography was marvelous. The lighting was neither burning nor dull. It was gorgeous. Reflecting on our actress during day and night was superb. The illusion that allowed us to feel safe that no animal was harmed was perfect.

Overall: This film, until it's DVD/Blu Ray release, has already earned a spot in my closet of cinema. If you haven't seen it yet, by any means of media window, go see it. You will not regret it.

Written by: Bawnian©-Dexeus.