Review of Mermaids (1990) by Zarinah H — 25 Apr 2008

This is a great movie filled with likable characters, good acting and wonderful setting. Mermaids revolves around a single mom, Mrs Flax [played by Cher] who has the tendency to uproot her two daughters and move whenever the going gets tough. They end up in a town on the east coast and settle into a rather unconventional lifestyle, for Mrs Flax is quite an eccentric and quirky character, whose volatile relationship with her oldest daughter, Charlotte [well-acted by Winona Ryder] makes for great viewing [their on-screen chemistry as sparring mother & daughter is very believable]. Charlotte is passionate about Christ, and fantasises about a career as a nun, a bit odd since the Flax's are Jewish! The younger daughter Kate is played by an adorable Christina Ricci, who is a talented swimmer, and has her share of quirks too.

Bob Hoskins plays Lou, the small-town shoe store owner who lusts after Mrs Flax...though both Lou and Mrs Flax hardly seem compatible, both physically and in terms of personality, Cher and Hoskins make it work, and they share great chemistry on-screen.

The time setting for this movie is the 60s, and the sets and costumes are wonderful and authentic, reflective of the time period. An important historical event such as JFK's assassination is handled with sensitivity and decorum.

The only grouse I have with this DVD release is the lack of any special features. Otherwise, this is a movie that will warm your heart, and make you laugh.