Watch Waterproof

Waterproof is a drama film released in 2000, directed by Barry Berman and featuring an ensemble cast including Whitman Mayo, April Grace, and Burt Reynolds. Set in the small town of Waterproof, Louisiana, the film tells the story of a family that has been torn apart by years of disagreements and secrets. The father, Amos (Mayo), is a tough but loving man who owns a small watering hole that doubles as a barbershop. His daughter, Celeste (Grace), is a successful writer who has returned to Waterproof after a long absence to take care of her father, who has fallen ill. Complicated further by the presence of Amos' estranged son, John (Reynolds), who has returned to town after a long absence, Waterproof explores the complex relationships between these three characters, as they come to terms with the past and try to start anew.

The film is a slow-burning drama that explores themes of family and reconciliation, with a focus on the complex and often painful dynamics that exist between parents and children. Mayo is outstanding in his role as the gruff but caring Amos, delivering a nuanced performance that is both warm and intimidating. His scenes with Grace, who brings a sense of emotional depth to her role as the conflicted Celeste, are some of the film's best.

Reynolds, too, is in fine form as the troubled John, whose past mistakes have made him an outcast in the town. His scenes with Amos are particularly powerful, as the two men struggle to come to terms with their relationship and the secrets that have kept them apart. The supporting cast, which includes the likes of Mary Kay Place and Cameron Finley, also turn in solid performances, helping to flesh out the world of Waterproof and bring its characters to life.

One of the film's greatest strengths is its sense of place. Set in a small, working-class town in Louisiana, Waterproof is imbued with a strong sense of Southern atmosphere and culture. Berman's direction emphasizes the importance of family, tradition, and community in this world, and the film is at its best when it explores the complex relationships between its characters in this context.

Another standout element of Waterproof is its visual style. Berman and his cinematographer, John L. Demps Jr., use a muted color palette and naturalistic lighting to capture the quiet beauty of the Louisiana landscape. The film's editing is also noteworthy, with a deliberate pace that allows the characters and their emotions to take center stage.

While it can feel slow at times, Waterproof is a well-crafted drama that offers a thoughtful exploration of family dynamics and the complications of reconciliation. Its strong performances and sense of place make it a compelling watch, and a worthy addition to the canon of Southern cinema.