From NetFlix:

In this captivating Depression-era melodrama, impetuous veterinary student Jacob Jankowski (Robert Pattinson) joins a celebrated circus as an animal caretaker but faces a wrenching dilemma when he’s transfixed by angelic married performer Marlena (Reese Witherspoon). An affinity for elephants brings together the young pair, but the warmth between them sends Marlena’s cruel husband, animal trainer August (Christoph Waltz), into a frightening fury.

After reading Sara Gruen’s popular novel “Water for Elephants” it is easy to see that the original story had to be adapted for a film. For example, in the book we read about Jacob’s life in a nursing home when he is in his nineties. Frankly, I preferred the film.

Someone once opined that one successful way to make a movie is to just tell a good story. Indeed this is a captivating story that held my attention for several reasons. August was so out of control that I kept waiting for the explosion. Jacob and Marlena made such a good couple that eventually they had to somehow get together.

You do see at least indirectly some cruelty to animals, especially Rosie the elephant. Mostly you see the bloody results of August’s anger toward Rosie, which could be difficult for young children.

And the ending is so goody good good that I just snickered a bit. Great film!