The story is narrated by an elderly Jacob Jankowski (Hal Holbrook) as he recounts his experiences with the Benzini Brothers Circus during the 1930s.
The climax of the film occurs as a young Jacob (Robert Pattinson), a veterinary student at Cornell University, loses his parents in a car accident. Distraught and without a home, he hops a train and inadvertently becomes part of the Benzini Brothers Circus, which is struggling to survive during the Great Depression.
Jacob quickly becomes involved with the circus’s animal care, and his skills as a veterinarian catch the eye of the circus’s owner, August Rosenbluth (Christoph Waltz). August is charismatic but also volatile, and his wife, Marlena (Reese Witherspoon), is the star equestrian act.
As Jacob becomes more entwined with the circus, he and Marlena form a deep connection that threatens to unravel the unstable dynamic of the Benzini Brothers Circus. Tensions rise as August becomes increasingly jealous and possessive.
The movie explores themes of love, loyalty, and the harsh realities of life in the circus. Rosie, an elephant with a special talent, becomes a central figure in the story, representing hope and escape.
The film climaxes with a dramatic and dangerous event during a performance, forcing Jacob to make choices that will shape the fates of those around him. The narrative comes full circle as elderly Jacob reflects on the impact of his time with the circus.
“Water for Elephants” received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for its performances and visuals but criticism for its melodramatic elements. The film, however, found an audience who appreciated its romantic and nostalgic portrayal of the circus world during a challenging historical period.