Directed by Francis Lawrence; starring Reese Witherspoon, Robert Pattinson, and Christoph Waltz, Water for Elephants is a drama/romance about a young man who takes a job in a travelling circus and ends up falling in love with the ringmaster’s wife.

My reasons for watching this one are that I’m a fan of Witherspoon, elephants are majestic and just a few days ago, I happened to be in the mood for a film that wouldn’t prove too emotionally taxing. I’ve also recently watched and loved The Greatest Showman (2017). I therefore needed to find out whether I could appreciate another circus movie nearly as much.  

I’ll waste no time in confirming that The Greatest Showman (2017) remains my favourite circus movie. Reason being, even though Water for Elephants proved a not especially taxing viewing experience, by the end of the film, I couldn’t say I loved it. It was just OK. The acting wasn’t bad, but I may have enjoyed the film that little bit more had the central love story been stronger and more enthralling. It may also be that I’ve just seen this old-fashioned style of storytelling several times before, and this particular version simply wasn’t the best.

I’ll likely remember Water for Elephants for the visuals of Witherspoon’s character, with the beautiful white horse, and also for bringing to mind the value of the kindness of strangers. Especially because none of us can really survive without it. 

Watch Water For Elephants if you’re curious enough, and or when the right mood strikes. 

Happy Film Loving,

G