Review of The Waterdance (1992) by Drew H — 24 Sep 2007
Independent film at it's best. Based on the true story of writer and co-director Neil Jimenez, "The waterdance" follows his time in a rehabilitation facility after a hiking accident that left him paralyzed.
The film is tough and sharp, refusing to pander or soft sell the catastrophic life changes such an event demands. A completely character based film, there is virtually no momentum or moments of epiphany, yet the effect is both dramatic and gripping.
The paralyzed writer, called "Joel Garcia" in the film is forced to share a ward with a racist biker, (William Forsythe, in what should have been a star making performance), and an African-American man full of transparent bravado.
The story is how these proud men come to terms with both their injuries and each other. Joel is also involved in a complicated relationship with a married woman, a role played with exquisite nuance by Helen Hunt.
The love scene between the stricken writer and the married woman is one of the most honest moments you'll see in a movie. Considered a "small" movie on it's release, (No stunt drivers or explosive experts on the payroll), it nevertheless feels "big".
Eric Stoltz as "Joel" has never been better.
This review of The Waterdance (1992) was written by Drew H on 24 Sep 2007.
The Waterdance has generally received positive reviews.
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