🪶 Story & Synopsis
“Dark Waters,” directed by Todd Haynes and based on the article “The Lawyer Who Became DuPont’s Worst Nightmare” by Nathaniel Rich, is a gripping legal drama that sheds light on a real-life environmental scandal.
The movie follows the journey of corporate defense attorney Robert Bilott, portrayed by Mark Ruffalo, who takes on an environmental lawsuit against chemical giant DuPont after being approached by West Virginia farmer Wilbur Tennant, played by Bill Camp, in 1998. Tennant believes that DuPont’s activities have contaminated his land and caused the death of his cattle.
Initially hesitant due to his background in defending large corporations, Bilott is compelled to investigate further after witnessing the disturbing evidence firsthand. With the support of his law firm boss Tom Terp, portrayed by Tim Robbins, Bilott delves into the case, uncovering a history of pollution and deceit by DuPont.
As the legal battle unfolds, Bilott transitions from representing Tennant to leading a class action suit on behalf of thousands of individuals affected by the contamination near a DuPont chemical plant. The lawyer’s relentless pursuit of justice puts his career, health, and personal life at risk, but he remains steadfast in his mission to hold DuPont accountable for the harm caused by the toxic chemical PFOA.
“Dark Waters” not only explores the complexities of environmental litigation and corporate malfeasance but also highlights the courage and determination of individuals like Bilott who take a stand against powerful entities for the greater good.
🧑 Cast & Crew
Faten Hamama, Omar Sharif, Ahmed Ramzy, Hussein Riad, Ferdoos Mohammed, Aziza Helmy, Tawfik El Deken
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Mark Ruffalo | Robert Bilott |
| Anne Hathaway | Sarah Barlage Bilott |
| Tim Robbins | Tom Terp |
| Bill Pullman | Harry Dietzler |
| Bill Camp | Wilbur Tennant |
💬 Reviews and feedback
Grab your popcorn, folks, because we are diving into the murky waters of the legal thriller genre with “Dark Waters.” This film, based on the true story of lawyer Rob Bilott’s battle against the DuPont chemical company, promises a rollercoaster ride through corporate malpractice and legal victories. But does it hold up as a good movie? Let’s dissect this finely narrated tale and see if it makes a splash or sinks like a stone.
From the depths of real-life malpractice emerges our protagonist, played by the ever-talented Mark Ruffalo. He embodies attorney Rob Bilott with such conviction that you can’t help but root for him as he takes on the Goliath that is DuPont. Ruffalo’s performance is like a fine wine – rich, complex, and leaving you wanting more.
The direction by Todd Haynes sets the stage for a gripping narrative that unravels like a well-crafted legal brief. The pacing keeps you on the edge of your seat, eagerly anticipating each new revelation in this David-and-Goliath battle. However, some may find Haynes’ execution a bit one-note, lacking the punch needed to deliver a knockout blow.
Let’s talk about production design and cinematography. The visuals in “Dark Waters” are akin to a dark painting come to life. The bleak industrial landscapes contrasted with moments of quiet intensity create an atmosphere that seeps into your bones. Every frame feels deliberate and serves to immerse you further into this chilling world of corporate greed.
- Binge-Watching Tip: If you’re looking for a movie that will keep you engaged from start to finish, “Dark Waters” is your go-to pick. Just make sure you have some snacks handy because once you start, you won’t want to pause.
Now, let’s talk about the score and editing. The haunting score lingers in the background like an ominous warning, heightening the tension in key moments. As for editing, each scene flows seamlessly into the next, building momentum towards the inevitable showdown between our hero and the corporate behemoth.
Special effects play a subtle yet crucial role in bringing the environmental devastation caused by DuPont to life. The toxic waste seeping into rivers and contaminating communities is depicted with chilling realism, serving as a stark reminder of the consequences of unchecked corporate greed.
Dialogues in “Dark Waters” are sharp enough to cut through steel – every word carries weight and significance. Whether it’s legal jargon flying back and forth in court or heartfelt conversations between characters fighting for justice, each line hits its mark with precision.
As we reach the climax of this legal thriller, we witness justice being served – albeit with a hefty price tag attached to it for DuPont. The real-life repercussions of this case echo long after the credits roll, leaving us pondering on the true cost of corporate negligence.
In conclusion, “Dark Waters” is like a deep dive into murky waters – unsettling yet necessary to shed light on environmental injustices that often go unnoticed. While it may not hit all the right notes in terms of execution, its heart is in the right place. So grab your gavel and join Ruffalo on this riveting journey towards truth and accountability.
Rating: 8/10
Remember folks: when it comes to fighting corporate giants or choosing your movie night pick wisely – always aim for justice!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Well-crafted | One-note execution |
| Finely narrated | lacks dramatic oomph |
| Based on a true story | fails to deliver desired impact |
| Mark Ruffalo’s performance | lacks dramatic oomph |
| Engages audience’s outrage |
Feedback
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Dark Waters (2019 film) - Wikipedia
126 minutes Country United States Language English Box office $23.1 million Dark Watersis a 2019 American legal thriller film directed by Todd Haynes and written by Mario Correa and Matthew Michael Carnahan. The story dramatizes Robert Bilott’s case against the chemical manufacturing corporation DuPont after they contaminated a town with unregulated chemicals. It stars Mark Ruffalo as Bilott, along with Anne Hathaway, Tim Robbins, Bill Camp, Victor Garber, Mare Winningham, William Jackson Harper, and Bill Pullman.
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Dark Waters (2019) - IMDb
- jayaxelhickey
- Jan 20, 2020
- How long is Dark Waters?Powered by Alexa
Details
- Release date
- Country of origin
- Official sites
- Languages
- Also known as
- The Lawyer Who Became DuPont’s Worst Nightmare
- Filming locations
- Cincinnati, Ohio, USA(interior and exterior locations)
- Production companies
- See more company credits at IMDbPro
Box office
- Gross US & Canada
- $11,136,084
- Opening weekend US & Canada
- $102,606
- Nov 24, 2019
- Gross worldwide
- $23,108,017
- Runtime2 hours 6 minutes
- Color
- Sound mix
- Aspect ratio
- 2.39 : 1
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Suggest an edit or add missing content
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Dark Waters movie review & film summary (2019) | Roger Ebert
Now streaming on:”Dark Waters,” starring Mark Ruffalo as an attorney trying to punish the DuPont chemical corporation for dumping toxic waste in West Virginia, is a lone-crusader-against-the-corrupt-system film, in the tradition of “The Insider,” “A Civil Action,” and “The Verdict.” Director Todd Haynes (“Carol,” “Mildred Pierce”) embraces that lineage, giving viewers the sense of what a long, tedious, spiritually draining process this can be, and letting even the best-looking, most charismatic actors in the ensemble appear onscreen looking as if they inhabit the same reality as the rest of us and are exhausted by it.
⚠️ Explanation (Spoiler)
Dark Waters is a gripping film directed by Todd Haynes, based on the true story of corporate corruption and the fight for justice. The movie follows Robert Bilott, a corporate defense attorney turned environmental activist, as he uncovers DuPont’s cover-up of the harmful effects of their chemical, PFOA (C8). The ending is both satisfying and bittersweet, showcasing the triumph of justice and the ongoing environmental concerns.
In the final scenes, Bilott and his team successfully expose DuPont’s deception, leading to a class-action lawsuit against the company. The courtroom drama unfolds as Bilott presents damning evidence, culminating in DuPont being found guilty of negligence and ordered to compensate the affected individuals, marking a significant victory against corporate corruption.
However, the film doesn’t stop at the resolution but delves into the lasting impact of corporate malfeasance. Bilott reflects on the personal toll and sacrifices made during the case. The broader implications of the DuPont case are also highlighted, revealing the widespread contamination of PFOA and the urgent need for stricter regulations.
The ending of Dark Waters leaves viewers with a mix of hope and unease, emphasizing the importance of accountability and individual action in the face of corporate greed. It raises questions about systemic issues and calls for continued vigilance and advocacy for a more just and sustainable future.
Dark Waters is a powerful and thought-provoking film that underscores the devastating consequences of corporate corruption, urging audiences to recognize the power of individuals in combating injustice and driving change.
👪 Parents Guide & Age Rating
TV-14
Age Rating:
Dark Waters is rated PG-13 by the MPAA for thematic content, some disturbing images, and strong language.
Parental Guide:
Dark Waters is a thought-provoking legal thriller that sheds light on environmental issues caused by corporate negligence. Here is a detailed parental guide to help you decide if this movie is suitable for your child:
- Violence: The movie includes scenes where a cow has a seizure, charges at a man, and is shot twice. There are also scenes showing organs and black teeth removed post mortem from sick cows. A dog barks and moves unnaturally in one scene.
- Sex/Nudity: There are no explicit sexual scenes or nudity in the movie.
- Profanity: The film contains strong language.
- Alcohol/Drugs: There are no scenes depicting alcohol or drug use.
- Frightening/Intense Scenes: The movie has some disturbing images related to the environmental pollution and its effects on animals and individuals.
Overall, Dark Waters is a socially conscious film that addresses important issues but may not be suitable for younger viewers due to its thematic content and language. Parents are advised to watch the movie first and then decide if it is appropriate for their children based on their maturity level.
📺 Streaming and where to watch
| streaming service | extra information |
|---|---|
| Netflix | Currently you are able to watch ‘Dark Waters’ streaming on Netflix, Netflix basic with Ads. |
| AMC Theatres On Demand | You can watch ‘Dark Waters’ on AMC Theatres On Demand, a streaming platform that lets you rent and buy films. |
| Amazon Video | You can rent ‘Dark Waters’ on Amazon Video. It is also possible to buy it on Amazon Video. |
| Google Play Movies | You can buy ‘Dark Waters’ on Google Play Movies. |
| YouTube | You can buy ‘Dark Waters’ on YouTube. |
| Vudu | You can buy ‘Dark Waters’ on Vudu. It is also possible to rent it on Vudu online. |
| Microsoft Store | You can rent ‘Dark Waters’ on Microsoft Store online. It is also possible to buy it on Microsoft Store. |
❝ Quotes and Cult
The system is rigged!
The system is rigged!
We protect us. We do. Nobody else. Not the companies, not the scientists, not the government. Us.
🤖Dark Waters Reddit Talks
Dark Waters: A Legal Drama Exposing Corporate Negligence
Dark Waters, a gripping legal drama, tells the true story of Rob Bilott, an environmental attorney who takes on the chemical giant DuPont in a battle for justice. The film has sparked discussions on social media platforms like Reddit, where users have shared their perspectives on the movie’s accuracy, its impact, and the ongoing issue of corporate accountability.
Accuracy of the Film
Many Redditors believe that Dark Waters provides a faithful depiction of the real-life events surrounding the DuPont case. The film’s portrayal of the company’s alleged negligence and the subsequent legal battle has been widely praised for its authenticity. However, DuPont has previously questioned the accuracy of certain elements of the film, leaving some viewers to wonder about the extent of its faithfulness to the true story.
Corporate Accountability
Dark Waters has ignited discussions about the importance of corporate accountability and the consequences of corporate negligence. Redditors have expressed outrage at DuPont’s alleged actions, highlighting the need for stricter regulations and enforcement to prevent similar incidents in the future. The film has also sparked debates about the role of corporations in society and the extent to which they should be held responsible for their actions.
Environmental Impact
The film’s focus on the environmental impact of DuPont’s actions has resonated with many viewers. Redditors have discussed the devastating effects of chemical pollution on human health and the environment, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and action to protect both. Dark Waters has raised important questions about the responsibility of corporations to minimize their environmental footprint and the potential consequences of unchecked industrial practices.
Legal System
The legal battle depicted in Dark Waters has also sparked discussions about the strengths and weaknesses of the legal system. Redditors have debated the challenges faced by individuals and communities in seeking justice against powerful corporations. The film has highlighted the importance of having access to legal representation and the need for a fair and impartial legal system that can hold corporations accountable for their actions.
Critical Reception
While many viewers have praised Dark Waters for its powerful storytelling and social relevance, some have criticized it for its slow pacing and lack of emotional depth. Redditors have also compared the film to other legal dramas, such as Erin Brockovich and Spotlight, highlighting both its similarities and differences. Despite these criticisms, Dark Waters has generally received positive feedback from audiences and critics alike.
Underrated Gem
Despite its limited box office success, Dark Waters has gained a dedicated following among Redditors who believe it is an underrated gem. Many viewers have expressed their appreciation for the film’s thought-provoking themes, strong performances, and its ability to shed light on an important environmental and legal issue. Dark Waters has become a popular recommendation among Redditors who seek out films with substance and social relevance.
Overall, Dark Waters has sparked important discussions on Reddit about corporate accountability, environmental impact, the legal system, and the importance of storytelling in raising awareness about pressing social issues.
Top discussions
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/e6zttw/official_discussion_dark_waters_spoilers/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/fstwiw/if_anyone_hasnt_seen_dark_waters_with_mark/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/NetflixBestOf/comments/1co65oj/us_dark_waters_2019_a_corporate_defense/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/movies/comments/qqyemw/is_dark_waters_a_flop/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/blankies/comments/10lz3kc/todd_hayness_dark_waters_2019_is_a_great_addition/
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is the movie Dark Waters about DuPont a true story?
Yes, Dark Waters is based on the true story of lawyer Rob Bilott’s case against the DuPont chemical company.
Was Dark Waters a good movie?
Overall, Dark Waters is a well-crafted & finely narrated legal thriller that takes its inspirations from a real-life malpractice.
What happened to DuPont after Dark Waters?
After the events portrayed in Dark Waters, DuPont was ordered by the court to pay for studies examining the toxic effects of PFOA and settled for $671 million to compensate impacted residents in Ohio and West Virginia.
What was Robert Bilott’s illness?
Robert Bilott suffered from a mysterious neurological disorder that manifested as tremors, palsy on his right side, and violent shaking convulsions starting in 2008.
How much of the movie Dark Waters is true?
Although DuPont has questioned some elements, for the most part, the film appears to be a faithful retelling of the high-profile legal battle fought by Robert Bilott.
🔀 Recommended Movie and TV Show
Here is a list of similar movies to “Dark Waters” considering its themes of Legal Thriller, True Story, Drama, Environmental, and Biographical:
- Changeling: A drama film based on a true story about a mother’s quest to find her missing son.
- All the Money in the World: A thriller depicting the kidnapping of J. Paul Getty’s grandson.
- Winter’s Bone: A drama focusing on a young woman’s search for her missing father in the Ozarks.
- What They Had: A family drama dealing with Alzheimer’s disease and its impact on a family.
- Land of Ashes: A drama film exploring themes of loss and redemption in a small community.
- Rest in Peace: A mystery drama involving a young man’s investigation into a local murder.
- Ivalu: A drama set in an Inuit community dealing with love, tradition, and modernity.
- Lost in the Night: A thriller following a woman’s search for her missing sister in a dangerous city.
- The Constant Gardener: A thriller uncovering corruption and conspiracy in the pharmaceutical industry.
- Bombshell: A biographical drama about the women who exposed sexual harassment at Fox News.
- The Report: A political thriller based on the true story of the investigation into the CIA’s use of torture.
- The Best of Enemies: A historical drama about the unlikely friendship between a civil rights activist and a KKK leader.
