I will admit to never having read the global bestseller by Sara Gruen of which this film is based upon. Furthermore, I knew nothing about the story before entering the theater. I assumed elephants were involved, but beyond that I hadn't a clue. Upon exiting I found myself slightly entertained by what I saw, with most of the entertainment launching from the story, not the film itself.
Telling the tale of a man and a women who, against all odds, fall in love but then find their love forbidden by those around them Water for Elephants is plain as day when looking at the surface. However, looking deeper we are introduced to three addictive characters, all of whom serve as a key components in this all-too-familiar love triangle.
The supporting cast, most of whom make up the Benzini Bros. Circus, are a sight worth seeing, and the way they interact with one another helps keep the film moving when the love story hits its rough patches. Without these characters, the film would not have succeeded as neither Reese Witherspoon or Robert Pattinson do enough to carry the film on their own. In fact, their onscreen chemistry is awkward throughout their courtship, making it hard for me to root for their ultimate survival. Witherspoon's Marlena is married to the circus boss, and while her love is at times torn, I couldn't help but think she was better suited where she was.
The best moments of the film lay with Hal Holbrook. He plays our leading man during present day, recounting his story over a glass of whiskey waiting on a visitor, his son. The younger man didn't visit that day, and damn, he missed one hell of a story.
