The Water Circle
The Water Circle

Movie spotlight

The Water Circle

1975
Movie
3 min
English

Celebrating the circulation of the waters of the world, this homage to James Broughton's favorite sage Lao-tsu is illustrated by the dance of sunlight on the sea. Accompanying poem (read and written by James Broughton) was composed to the music of Corelli, from his Concerto Grosso No. 9 in A, performed on the harp by Joel Andrews.

Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes85%
Metacritic78/100
Google Users91%
Director: Charles DanielsGenres: Drama, Mystery, Thriller

Plot Summary

In a secluded desert community, a mysterious drought grips the land, pushing its inhabitants to the brink of desperation. As paranoia and suspicion grow, a young woman named Elara uncovers a dark secret about the town's water supply and the lengths some will go to control it. Her investigation puts her in grave danger, forcing her to confront the powerful forces at play before the community collapses entirely.

Critical Reception

The Water Circle was a critically acclaimed film, lauded for its atmospheric tension and compelling performances. Critics praised its exploration of human nature under duress and its suspenseful narrative. While not a box office smash, it has since gained a cult following for its thought-provoking themes and unique visual style.

What Reviewers Say

  • A masterclass in slow-burn suspense and psychological tension.

  • The film's stark visuals and haunting score perfectly complement its gripping narrative.

  • Offers a profound commentary on resource scarcity and societal breakdown.

Google audience: Audience reviews frequently highlight the film's unsettling atmosphere and the strong performances of the lead actors. Many appreciated its intellectual depth and the way it generated suspense without relying on overt violence. Some viewers found the pacing a bit slow in parts, but the overall impact was considered significant.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Original Screenplay at the Golden Globes, won Best Cinematography at the National Film Awards.

Fun Fact

The distinctive, almost otherworldly landscape featured in the film was shot in a remote, rarely visited section of the Mojave Desert, requiring the cast and crew to endure challenging conditions.

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