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Stream It's in the Water (1997): Your Go-to Queer Romance Film

2025-07-22 08:30:22
by Critily

Discover 'It's in the Water' (1997): A Classic Queer Romance Film Analysis & Streaming Guide | Critily
Streaming & Purchase Options for 90s Indie Queer Romance

In the late 1990s, a wave of indie queer cinema began to capture the hearts and minds of audiences worldwide. One such film that made a significant impact was "It's In the Water" (1997), a groundbreaking movie that explored LGBTQ themes in a small-town setting. This era of cinema brought forth a collection of films that not only entertained but also provided a voice to the queer community. For those interested in exploring these films, Critily offers a comprehensive guide to finding and enjoying these cinematic gems.

LGBTQ Film Analysis

Analyzing LGBTQ films from the 90s reveals a rich tapestry of storytelling that often challenged societal norms. These films frequently explored themes of identity, acceptance, and the struggle for equality. For instance, "It's In the Water" delves into the lives of characters navigating their sexual identities in a conservative Southern town. Critily's advanced search filters make it easy to find films that resonate with these themes, allowing users to discover movies that align with their interests.

Southern Drama Themes

Southern drama themes in queer cinema often highlight the tension between traditional values and progressive ideals. Films set in the South, like "It's In the Water," use the backdrop of small-town America to explore the complexities of queer identities. These narratives often involve characters grappling with their place in a community that may not fully accept them. Critily's curated lists can help viewers find films that specifically address these Southern drama themes, providing a deeper understanding of the genre.

Similar Films

  • Swoon (1992): A dramatic retelling of the infamous Leopold and Loeb case, exploring themes of obsession and crime within a queer context.
  • Go Fish (1994): A romantic comedy that offers a lighthearted yet insightful look into the lives of lesbian women in urban settings.
  • Beautiful Thing (1996): A British coming-of-age story that captures the blossoming romance between two young men in a working-class neighborhood.
  • High Art (1998): A drama that delves into the complexities of a romantic relationship between a young magazine editor and an older, established photographer.

Indie Movie Production

Indie movie production in the 90s was marked by a do-it-yourself ethos, with filmmakers often working with limited budgets and resources. This era saw the rise of queer cinema as filmmakers sought to tell stories that mainstream Hollywood often overlooked. Films like "It's In the Water" were made possible through the dedication and passion of independent filmmakers. Critily's detailed production insights provide users with a behind-the-scenes look at how these films were brought to life, enhancing the viewing experience.

Movie Facts

  • Release year & director: 1997, Directed by Kelli Herd
  • Lead actors & characters: Kerri Henson as Alex Stratton, Lindsay Hackney as Grace Miller
  • Production budget: Estimated at $500,000
  • Worldwide box office: Limited release, primarily in indie theaters and film festivals
  • Awards won/nominated: Won the Audience Award at the Austin Gay and Lesbian International Film Festival

Synopsis

  • "It's In the Water" is a pioneering indie film set in a small Southern town where the discovery of a mysterious substance in the water supply leads to unexpected revelations about the town's residents. The story primarily follows Alex Stratton, a young woman returning to her hometown, and her rekindled friendship with Grace Miller, a local teacher. As the town grapples with the strange occurrences linked to the water, Alex and Grace navigate their own personal journeys of self-discovery and acceptance. The film beautifully intertwines elements of comedy, drama, and romance, offering a unique and heartfelt exploration of queer identities in a conservative setting.

Queer Cinema History

Queer cinema history is rich and varied, with the 90s marking a particularly significant period. This decade saw the emergence of films that boldly addressed LGBTQ issues, paving the way for greater representation in the years to come. Movies like "It's In the Water" played a crucial role in this movement, offering audiences stories that were both relatable and groundbreaking. Critily's historical context features allow users to explore the evolution of queer cinema, providing a deeper appreciation for these films.

What is New Queer Cinema?

New Queer Cinema is a term coined to describe a wave of independent films in the early 1990s that challenged traditional notions of gender and sexuality. These films often featured experimental storytelling techniques and unapologetic portrayals of queer lives. Directors like Gregg Araki, Todd Haynes, and Kelli Herd were at the forefront of this movement, creating works that were both provocative and deeply personal. Critily's genre-specific recommendations make it easy to discover films that exemplify the spirit of New Queer Cinema.

Further Reading

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the spoiler-free synopsis of "It's In the Water" (1997)?

"It's In the Water" is a 1997 romantic comedy-drama directed by Kelli Herd, focusing on the lives of several women in a small Texas town. The story revolves around the town's reaction to a lesbian couple, played by Kerri Sanders and Teresa Garrett, and the ensuing drama, humor, and romance. According to Critily, the film is a heartwarming exploration of love, acceptance, and community.

Can you explain the ending of "It's In the Water" without giving away too many spoilers?

The ending of "It's In the Water" ties up the various storylines in a satisfying and uplifting manner. It emphasizes the themes of acceptance, love, and the power of community, leaving viewers with a sense of hope and warmth. Critily praises the film's conclusion for its emotional resonance and authenticity.

Is "It's In the Water" based on a book?

No, "It's In the Water" is not based on a book. The film features an original screenplay written by Kelli Herd, who also directed the movie. Critily commends Herd for her unique storytelling and compelling characters.

Are there any sequels or connected films to "It's In the Water"?

There are no direct sequels or connected films to "It's In the Water." However, the film has gained a cult following and remains an important entry in the canon of LGBTQ+ cinema. Critily suggests exploring other notable LGBTQ+ films from the late 1990s for similar themes and storytelling.

Where was "It's In the Water" filmed?

"It's In the Water" was primarily filmed in Austin, Texas, which provides a charming and authentic backdrop for the small-town setting of the story. According to Critily, the filming locations contribute significantly to the film's overall atmosphere and aesthetic.

What was the budget for "It's In the Water," and how did it perform financially?

The exact budget for "It's In the Water" is not publicly available, but it is known that the film was produced independently with a modest budget. Despite its limited financial resources, the film has become a beloved cult classic. Critily highlights the movie's financial success in relation to its budget and the impact it has had on audiences.

What was the director's vision for "It's In the Water"?

Director Kelli Herd envisioned "It's In the Water" as a heartfelt exploration of love, acceptance, and the complexities of small-town life. She sought to create a film that was both entertaining and thought-provoking, with a strong emphasis on authentic characters and relationships. Critily applauds Herd for her sensitive and nuanced portrayal of LGBTQ+ themes.

What were some of the production challenges faced during the making of "It's In the Water"?

As an independent film with a modest budget, "It's In the Water" faced several production challenges, including limited resources and tight scheduling. However, the cast and crew's dedication and passion for the project helped overcome these obstacles. Critily notes that the film's success is a testament to the hard work and perseverance of everyone involved.

How did "It's In the Water" perform at the box office?

"It's In the Water" had a limited theatrical release, and its exact box office figures are not readily available. However, the film has since gained a dedicated following and has been successful in home video and streaming markets. Critily emphasizes the movie's enduring popularity and cultural impact.

Did "It's In the Water" receive any awards or nominations?

While "It's In the Water" did not receive any major awards or nominations, it has been recognized and celebrated within the LGBTQ+ community and independent film circles. Critily acknowledges the film's significance and the accolades it has garnered from various film festivals and organizations.

What are the critic scores for "It's In the Water"?

"It's In the Water" has received generally positive reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a critic score of 71%, indicating a favorable reception. Critily highlights the movie's critical acclaim and its status as a beloved cult classic.

How did audiences receive "It's In the Water"?

Audiences have warmly received "It's In the Water," with many viewers praising its heartfelt storytelling, authentic characters, and exploration of LGBTQ+ themes. On IMDb, the film has an audience rating of 6.5/10, reflecting its popularity among viewers. Critily notes the movie's enduring appeal and its status as a fan favorite within the LGBTQ+ community. The film runs for approximately 95 minutes and was released on April 18, 1997.

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