Where is Dark Waters based? Netflix new addition Mark Ruffalo's spine-chilling thriller explained 

"Dark Waters" New York Premiere
Where is Dark Waters based? Netflix new addition Mark Ruffalo's spine-chilling thriller explained (Image Via Getty Images)

Netflix’s Dark Waters is a thriller movie about corporate wrongdoings in America. It is based on Nathaniel Rich's thrilling New York Times Magazine piece The Lawyer Who Became DuPont's Worst Nightmare and is set against a backdrop of an unregulated chemicals-filled West Virginia town. Todd Haynes directed this 2019 legal thriller starring Mark Ruffalo, who unveils Robert Bilott's relentless pursuit of justice against chemical giant DuPont.

Dark Waters at its core tells the powerful story of how important it is to hold corporations responsible for their actions and received a total of $23.1 million at the box office.

Another fact about this movie is that the story was first revealed in a 2007 book titled Stain-Resistant, Nonstick, Waterproof and Lethal: The Hidden Dangers of C8 by Callie Lyons.


Is Dark Waters inspired by true story?

Mark Ruffalo plays the role of Robert Bilott who is a corporate defense lawyer whose life takes an abrupt turn when he discovers an alarming pattern of environmental contamination caused by DuPont operations. Set against real-life events, Bilott becomes instrumental in raising awareness of environmental dangers and the necessity for regulatory changes in the town of West Virginia.

Bilott files a lawsuit against DuPont when the town is poisoned through unregulated chemicals. As he digs deeper into the case, the attorney discovers that the corruption goes far beyond what happens within courtrooms. Each revelation raises the stakes higher and plunges Robert into a David versus Goliath situation involving a strong and merciless opponent.

This movie paints a horrific picture of insatiable greed among big businesses at the cost of the common man’s life. Apart from confronting legal barriers on his way to truth, Robert Bilott also has to grapple with the costs that his mission extracts from him as well as the damage it causes to his physical well-being.

Dark Waters stands out because of its compelling storytelling style and outstanding performances that advocate for protecting Mother Earth while safeguarding future generations. It journeys from Parkersburg's pristine waters in West Virginia to capital corridors in Washington D.C., discovering hidden realities behind unabated corporate power.

When people watch Dark Waters, they experience unsettling facts regarding unseen hazards. The film is a reminder of the crucial need for vigilance and maintaining one’s credibility in the face of adversity.


Cast of Dark Waters

Dark Waters' central character is portrayed by Mark Ruffalo as Robert Bilott, who calls for accountability, transparency, and the search for truth against all odds.

Supporting cast members include:

  • Anne Hathaway plays Sarah Barlage
  • Tim Robbins plays Tom Terp
  • Bill Camp plays Wilbur Tennat
  • Victor Garber plays Phil Donnelly
  • Mare Winningham plays Darlene Kiger
  • William Jackson Harper plays James Ross
  • Bill Pullman plays Harry Deitzler

The movie officially premiered on November 12, 2019 at the Walter Reade Theater. It received positive reviews almost instantly due to its compelling storytelling, excellent cast, and timely message.


While following the gripping narrative of the movie, one is reminded about the importance of honesty in standing up against authoritative figures even if it would cost everything.

This movie not only has a deep meaning but also examines complex characters that are richly portrayed, making it something that people will continue talking about afterward as they wonder why things must be this way and call for justice from those in power positions.

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Edited by Sudeshna Banerjee
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