This nostalgic tale pays homage to the bright lights and colourful characters of a travelling circus struggling to survive during the Great Depression. The spotlight falls on Jacob Jankowski (Robert Pattinson), a veterinary student who suddenly finds himself orphaned and jumps aboard the first passing train. As if by magic, he finds himself amongst the freaks, drifters and misfits of the Benzini Brothers’ travelling circus who lead him to the compelling world of the big top.

Jacob is put in charge of caring for the circus animals, and it is here that he meets Marlena (Reese Witherspoon), the beautiful blonde star of the equestrian act. Marlena is married to the charismatic but twisted animal trainer August (Christoph Waltz), and the seeds of an unexpected romance are sewn as Jacob and Marlena are drawn together by their love for a special elephant, Rosie.

The magical moments of circus life are depicted charismatically by cinematographer Rodrigo Prieto, who manages to highlight every lovely detail. Water For Elephants lacks a bit of punch but still gets a thumbs-up.

Director: Francis Lawrence
Starring: Robert Pattinson, Reese Witherspoon, Christoph Waltz