Normally, the filter should be located at the bottom of the interior, under a perforated plate that is probably chromed.
From your description, it looks like it's under the water filling the bottom. Scoop out that water as much as you can.
That filter needs to be cleaned periodically. Hold true for all brands and models.
A clogged filter should not prevent the dishwasher from emptying, so, I suspect some other problem like, just guesses, a faulty valve or a seriously pinched pipe.
Electro, June 2017