The upcoming Focus Features film “Dark Waters” is looking like a prime Oscar contender this year. To start, it just landed a prime date for awards season, starting with a limited release on November 22. The film also features the type of true-story drama that the Academy loves. The film is inspired by the New York Times article, “The Lawyer Who Became DuPont’s Worst Nightmare.” This article outlines the story of Robert Bilott, a defense lawyer who takes on the DuPont chemical company to expose a horrifying environmental secret. This story rings similar to previous journalist drama films, such as “Spotlight,” “The Post,” and “All the President’s Men.”
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“Dark Waters” also features a strong cast, increasing the likelihood of Academy Award nominations. Three-time Oscar nominee Mark Ruffalo will star as Bilott, the whistle-blowing defense lawyer. This role largely echoes his role in “Spotlight,” which earned him a Best Supporting Actor nomination. That film ultimately won Best Picture. It remains to be seen whether or not this similarity will strike a chord with audiences and the Academy.
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The cast also includes Victor Garber, Bill Pullman, Mare Winningham, and William Jackson Harper, as well as Oscar winners like Tim Robbins and Anne Hathaway. Hathaway won Best Supporting Actress in 2013 for her performance in “Les Miserables,” while Robbins won Best Supporting Actor in 2004 for “Mystic River.” With such a strong supporting cast and Ruffalo as the lead, we expect great performances in this tense drama.
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“Dark Waters” is the seventh feature film of director Todd Haynes. Haynes has directed critically acclaimed films such as “Far From Heaven,” “Carol,” and “I’m Not There,” as well as the HBO mini-series “Mildred Pierce.” This edgy, provocative story seems in line with Haynes’ critical and thought-provoking films.
All in all, “Dark Waters” will attract a lot of attention this Oscar season. Uncover the story of “Dark Waters” on November 22.