Verdict:
Waterworld takes place in a post-apocalyptic world where the water levels rose dramatically, and the remaining humans survive in small pockets in the ocean. In simpler terms, it is Mad Max 2 but on water.
As is often the case with such movies, the main problem is with the plot. The plot eventually centers on a young girl who may be the key to salvation. Without spoiling too much, if you stop to consider the main device of the plot, it does not make sense. For it to make sense, the story would need to take place in ancient times, before the time of telecommunication or elevation maps, but from all the guns and jetskis, we see that the cataclysmic event took place in the modern world.
Furthermore, you realise that there is no need for the main conflict of the film to exist, given a much more plausible peaceful resolution. Basically, it’s the age-old problem of thrillers and action movies, where the story would come to an end if the characters simply talked to one another.
It’s good then that the plot does not linger too much on itself. The focus is on the relationship between the characters, the world building and the action.
Kevin Costner as the Mariner and Dennis Hopper as the villain are the ones who make this movie work, the latter being especially entertaining to watch. There is an interesting and meaningful growth in the relationship between the Mariner and the ladies that come under his protection.
The feeling of drought in the desert ocean is palpable. The set design for the floating atolls of the humans is noteworthy. Desperation is on everyone’s face. The film shows how everyone except the Mariner does not belong in this new world and why, despite having adapted to survive, they still desperately want to get out. The Mariner has a cool trimaran, which is treated sort of like his Batmobile. CGI is used but not overused, so that most effects are practical.
Waterworld is an ambitious project that overcame production problems. Does it have stupid moments? Well, that’s like asking whether or not it is an action movie. Yes, yes it does and yes it is. But it has good pacing, a few funny moments, a number of warm human moments, good acting, great atmosphere and it just generally a well-rounded adventure. It should sit right next to Jurassic Part and Mad Max movies.