The Shape Of Water LFF Review: 8 Ups & 2 Downs

5. The Magnificent Supporting Cast

Brilliant though Sally Hawkins is in this film, she's aided by an incredible supporting cast and arguably one of the year's finest cinematic ensembles.

Of particular note are Michael Shannon as the government security operative who wishes to dissect the creature, Richard Jenkins as Elisa's hip artist neighbour, Octavia Spencer as Elisa's colleague Zelda, and the brilliant Michael Stuhlbarg as an employee at the laboratory.

That's without even mentioning the terrific contributions by del Toro's regular guy-in-suit Doug Jones, who brings plenty of humanity to the otherworldly creature, and criminally underappreciated character actor David Hewlett, who plays a small role as a lab scientist.

Everywhere you turn this film is filled with game actors doing fantastic work, helping ensure that there's nary a dull moment.