Water for Elephants (2011) is Francis Lawrenc’s third feature film. The purpose of this quick review is not to comment on all aspects of the film, but simply highlight the concept of characterization or character development.
The film suffers from a weak protagonist (Robert Pattinson) who has no heroic characteristics and is simply there to be an opposing voice to the real protagonist of the film, the antagonist (Christoph Waltz). Waltz is strong both as an actor and as a character in the film and ends up overshadowing the guy whom the audience wants to side with.
A weak protagonist leads the audience to identify with other, more stronger characters in the film, only to be betrayed at the end because you were after the wrong guy.
On the other hand, Rosie, the elephant needs an Oscar for best supporting actress.
