Dark Waters

Dark Waters

Year: 2019

Runtime: 126 min

Language: English

Director: Todd Haynes

BiographyDramaHistoryThriller

As a determined lawyer delves into a mystery of unexplained fatalities linked to a powerful conglomerate, he confronts a sinister reality that threatens to destroy everything he holds dear: his career, his loved ones, and ultimately, his own mortality.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Dark Waters (2019)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Dark Waters (2019). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1998

The movie takes place in 1998, a time when industrial regulations were less stringent and corporate accountability was often overlooked. It reflects a growing awareness of environmental issues and the emergence of legal battles against large corporations concerning public health and safety.

Location

Parkersburg, West Virginia

Parkersburg is a city known for its industrial heritage and close proximity to the Ohio River. It has historically been a hub for manufacturing and is troubled by environmental issues due to nearby industrial activities. The case presented in 'Dark Waters' underscores the local impact of corporate negligence in such industries.

🏞️ Nature 🏭 Industry

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 18:53

Main Characters – Dark Waters (2019)
Meet the key characters of Dark Waters (2019), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Rob Bilott

Rob Bilott is a relentless corporate defense attorney turned environmental advocate. He demonstrates unwavering determination as he takes on one of the nation's largest corporations. His character experiences significant personal and professional challenges along the way, all while striving to uncover the truth and fight for justice.

⚖️ Lawyer 💪 Determination

Sarah Barlage Bilott

Sarah Barlage Bilott is Rob's pregnant wife, who becomes increasingly worried about his intense focus on the DuPont case. Her character is pivotal, showing the emotional strain that such a fight can place on a family. Despite her fears, she stands by Rob, emphasizing the support and challenges faced by families in times of crisis.

👩‍👧‍👦 Family 🙁 Concern

Wilbur Tennant

Wilbur Tennant is a distressed farmer whose devastating loss of livestock propels Rob into the legal battle against DuPont. He embodies the community's struggle against corporate wrongdoing and the personal toll it takes on those affected. Wilbur's character serves as a catalyst for the mission to seek accountability and justice.

👨‍🌾 Farmer 😢 Loss

Tom Terp

Tom Terp is Rob's boss who initially expresses skepticism about taking on the case against DuPont. He represents the corporate world's reluctance to engage with potential conflicts arising from powerful clients. Over time, his character reveals the complexities of navigating the corporate legal landscape.

👔 Corporate ⚠️ Skepticism

Phil Donnelly

Phil Donnelly is DuPont's legal representative who downplays the claims made against the company. He embodies the corporate defense strategies that prioritize profit over public safety and illustrates the challenges faced by the plaintiffs in holding large corporations accountable.

📉 Corporate 🙄 Dismissive

Darlene Kiger

Darlene Kiger is a local resident who joins the fight against DuPont, sharing her own harrowing experiences tied to the chemical pollution. Her character emphasizes community solidarity and the emotional scars left by environmental disasters, highlighting the broader implications of the case.

👩‍🌾 Community 💔 Struggle

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 18:53

Major Themes – Dark Waters (2019)
Explore the central themes of Dark Waters (2019), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⚖️ Justice

The theme of justice permeates the film as Robert Bilott fights for accountability against a powerful corporation. His journey emphasizes the importance of standing up for truth and the community's right to a safe environment. The struggles faced highlight the broader fight against corporate greed.

🌍 Environmental Integrity

Environmental integrity is a critical theme in 'Dark Waters', illustrating the adverse effects of industrial pollution on communities. The film raises awareness about hazardous chemicals, particularly PFOA, and the long-term impact of environmental negligence on public health.

👨‍👩‍👦 Family Struggles

The personal sacrifices made by Robert Bilott highlight the impact of his legal battles on his family. As his wife Sarah expresses concern about their safety and Robert's obsession, the film examines the intersection of personal life and professional duty, showcasing the emotional toll of fighting for justice.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 18:53

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