Review: Dark Waters

David vs. Goliath has been the standby when it comes to most law stories, especially when a corporation is involved. What’s right for profits is usually wrong or costly to the public at large. So when the fight is just, or the people are in danger, there are still people will to put their heads in the lions mouth to say “no more!” And that is where Dark Waters lives.

Based on real people and a true story, we follow lawyer Rob Bilott (Mark Ruffalo), a man working at a firm in Cincinnati, Ohio that is mainly known for protecting corporations and business entities. He is happy hiding and obfuscating for large and known brands on a day-to-day basis. That is until his loving grandmother give out his information to an angry cattle farmer in West Virginia.

At first, Rob looks to the issue as poor information management by the Dupont company and the EPA. Only to slowly realize that something is very much off with the so-called “Information and facts” he’s been given. Championing for the truth slowly reveals a deadly path. The corporation knowingly poisoned and polluted the world, all for profits.

His easy lawsuit based on a misunderstanding becomes a huge class action, as information and studies are soon revealed. Angry and righteous, he fights for what’s right and what will hopefully save lives.

Mark Ruffalo plays a genuine character, that is always part angry and part tired. His wife, played by Anne Hathaway, is at odds with him over his crusade that wears on their marriage and family.

My main though, was that Anne Hathaway was wasted in this role. She’s hidden in a wife role with minimal screen time, that is perhaps story accurate, but not great for her fans. Have we seen films like this before, yes. But that should make us even more mad, because most of these films are based on true stories. With these films, I usually find myself angry and spend most of my time hoping for a happy ending. Though the real world doesn’t dole out yellow brick roads and wishes, so we put up with knowing that we, personally, align ourselves on the side of right. Maybe that’s why Hollywood makes films like this, so we trust the information more since it comes from actors we love and trust. and just maybe, the sequel will give us the “Endgame” we deserve.

Grade: B
Running Time: 2h 6min
MPAA Rating: PG-13