There's no specific information given about who the man in the water is in the general 'man in the water story'. He could be anyone. He might be a traveler who met with misfortune while crossing a body of water, or perhaps a local who was trying to help during a flood. It all depends on the context of the particular story.
In 'Roger Ebert A Ghost Story', Roger Ebert was a well - known film critic. His presence might be significant as his work and influence in the world of cinema could be related to the themes in the 'Ghost Story'. Maybe the story draws on his insights into movies, perhaps using the idea of storytelling that he was so good at critiquing to create a unique narrative about a ghost.
The significance of the man in the water story is often about heroism. He represents selfless sacrifice and the will to help others at all costs. His actions show the best of human nature in a difficult situation.
The significance of the man in the water story is that it often represents heroism. The man in the water shows selfless courage as he is in a difficult situation but still tries to help others or face challenges bravely.
The movie 'The Water Man' is purely a work of fiction. It was crafted by the imagination of the writers and filmmakers, not drawn from actual events or true stories.