Luhrmann uses water as a representation of love. The water is a recurring image and representation of baptism and rebirth. It symbolizes the start of a new life together and cleansing. Romeo and Juliet's first encounter incorporates water as the two lovers gaze at each other through a fish tank which serves as a physical barrier between the two lovers, even though there are also a lot of emotional barriers. Romeo later submerges his head under water in an attempt to return to his usual self after being dazed from the drug and the free, flowing nature of water cleanses his mind. …
