Magic in the Water

Magic in the Water

Year: 1995

Runtime: 98 mins

Language: English

Director: Rick Stevenson

AdventureFamilyFantasyDrama

In a quiet lakeside town, radio psychologist Jack Black brings his children Joshua and Ashley on a “vacation” to a British Columbia lake. While he is absorbed in work, the kids discover that the famed local monster, “Orky,” might be real. The creature’s presence draws the family closer and sparks a mission to stop polluters dumping toxic waste into the water.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Magic in the Water (1995)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Magic in the Water (1995). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Location

Glenorky

Glenorky is a small lakeside town famous for its tourist lore around a legendary creature, Orky. The town sits beside a quiet lake that draws visitors for its folklore and scenic views. The cabin near the shore houses an elderly First Nations man in a wheelchair, adding a quiet, watchful presence to the community.

🌊 Lake town 🗺️ Scenic by the lake 🏞️ Rustic cabin vibe

Last Updated: October 04, 2025 at 17:32

Main Characters – Magic in the Water (1995)

Meet the key characters of Magic in the Water (1995), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Ashley Black (Sarah Wayne)

Ashley is a perceptive and sensitive pre-teen who feels neglected by her father but remains determined to uncover the truth behind the lake's legend. Her observation and courage drive much of the film's action, and her bond with her brother strengthens as danger grows.

👧 Child 🧭 Curious 🛡️ Protective

Jack Black (Mark Harmon)

Jack starts as a busy, distracted father who prioritizes work over his kids. When Orky's possession pushes him into peril, he experiences a shift toward devotion to his family, though his health deteriorates as the mystery unfolds.

👨 Father 🧭 Shifting 🛡️ Protective

Joshua Black (Joshua Jackson)

Joshua is Ashley's older brother, practical and brave. He becomes a key ally in the investigation, helping to expose the environmental threat and stand up to danger alongside his sister.

🧒 Brother 🧭 Courageous 🛡️ Loyal

Dr. Wanda Bell (Harley Jane Kozak)

Dr. Wanda Bell is a psychiatrist trying to aid a support group of men who believe they are possessed. She acts as a rational voice amid fear, guiding the town toward uncovering the truth behind Orky and the poisoning.

👩 Doctor 🧠 Rational 🗺️ Guiding

Hiro (Willie Nark-Orn)

Hiro is the son of Japanese monster seekers who allies with Ashley and Joshua. He brings knowledge of legends, curiosity, and hands-on help to sabotage the poisoner's plans and reveal Orky.

👦 Ally 🧭 Explorer 🧰 Helpful

Last Updated: October 04, 2025 at 17:32

Major Themes – Magic in the Water (1995)

Explore the central themes of Magic in the Water (1995), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🌊 Environment

The lake's health becomes central to the conflict, linking legend to real danger. A ruthless businessman dumps toxic waste into the lake, threatening wildlife and the town's livelihood. The legend of Orky is invoked to awaken environmental responsibility and community action.

👪 Family

Ashley's strained relationship with her father drives the emotional core, while Joshua's loyalty helps the siblings push for truth. The family's resolve grows as they cooperate with locals to expose the dumping. The crisis tests trust, but ultimately strengthens their bond.

🔎 Accountability

Investigative actions reveal the illegal dumping and the cover-up by the businessman, culminating in accountability for polluters. The kids, Hiro, Dr. Wanda Bell, and others confront danger to bring proof to light. The resolution demonstrates that truth and community action can overcome greed.

Last Updated: October 04, 2025 at 17:32

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Magic in the Water Summary

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Magic in the Water Summary

Magic in the Water Timeline

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Magic in the Water Timeline

Magic in the Water Spoiler-Free Summary

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Magic in the Water Spoiler-Free Summary

More About Magic in the Water

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