We talk The Shape of Water with Guillermo del Toro, Doug Jones and more!

I’ll never forget the first time I saw PAN’S LABYRINTH. I was already a fan of Guillermo del Toro before, thanks to HELLBOY and CRONOS, but that incredible film inspired me like few others. Since then, we’ve seen fantastic work from the writer/director, but even I wasn’t ready for his latest romantic creation. THE SHAPE OF WATER is sensational. Starring the unforgettable Sally Hawkins and Doug Jones, this is a modern day adult fairy tale that is part CREATURE FROM THE BLACK LAGOON and part classic Hollywood romance. It is strange and beautiful, and it’s certainly one of the best films of the year.

We recently attended the junket for the film where we spoke to the impressive cast; including Hawkins, Jones, Octavia Spencer, Michael Shannon, Richard Jenkins and Michael Stuhlbarg. First up, we spoke with both Shannon and Stuhlbarg. The two intensely talented actors discussed the characters they portray, and working with the acclaimed filmmaker. Both are absolutely terrific in the film, one of the many reasons to admire the film.

As a longtime fan of Doug Jones, it is fantastic to see the versatile actor take on a leading role – even though we never see his face. He discussed playing “the creature” yet still having the chance to play the romantic lead. When it came to Richard Jenkins, the actor discussed a particular scene in the film which is very human and frankly very powerful. This led to a discussion about the more politically charged aspects of the film as well. And thankfully, it adds to the impressive depth and emotional impact of this fanciful story.

Sally Hawkins and Octavia Spencer are perfect together in the film. And that amazing chemistry transferred to the interviews. Sally opened up about playing the romantic lead to what is technically a guy in a costume, and Ms. Spencer opened up about working with her co-star and, of course, their director. The two bring so much to the film, and don’t be surprised to see Sally Hawkins as a front-runner this year for a Best Actress trophy at the Academy Awards.

With the cast covered, you can’t not talk to the man who put it all together. What del Toro accomplished here for a strikingly modest budget is astounding. The director talked about that, and bringing his own cinematic influences to the silver screen. From the horror aspect to the romance, and even a little bit of the classic Hollywood musical thrown in. He discussed balancing all of these genres into one of his finest films. Go see THE SHAPE OF WATER as soon as you can, it’s a truly special movie going experience.