The Water Babies
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63% Critic Match

The Water Babies

Catch a Wave to a World Full of Wonder!

6.3 / 10 1978 1h 32mNR English
FamilyFantasyAnimationAdventureMusic

Storyline

Grimes, an amoral chimney sweep, occasionally likes to steal valuables from his clients. One day, on the verge of being caught, he frames his young apprentice, Tom, for the crime. Tom runs away and jumps into a river where, instead of drowning, he finds himself transformed into a mystical aquatic creature. Swimming and breathing effortlessly, he discovers a colorful underwater world replete with creatures both cruel and kind.

Cast & Crew

James Mason

James Mason

Mr. Grimes / Voice of Killer Shark

Lead
Bernard Cribbins

Bernard Cribbins

Mr. Masterman / Voice of Eel

Billie Whitelaw

Billie Whitelaw

Mrs. Doasyouwouldbedoneby / Old Crone / Mrs. Tripp / Woman in Black / Water Babies 'Gate Keeper'

Tommy Pender

Tommy Pender

Tom

Samantha Gates

Samantha Gates

Elly

Joan Greenwood

Joan Greenwood

Lady Harriet

David Tomlinson

David Tomlinson

Sir John / Voice of Polar Bear

Jon Pertwee

Jon Pertwee

Salmon

What People Are Saying

4.0
A staggering achievement of craft and ambition. Lionel Jeffries's vision lands with breathtaking precision.
Manohla Dargis, The New York Times
3.0
Every frame feels alive. The Water Babies is the rare release that takes its audience seriously.
Anthony Lane, The New Yorker