If you loved the enchanting and mystical atmosphere of 'Ondine' (2010), you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same magical realism, heartfelt storytelling, and ethereal beauty. Whether you're drawn to folklore, romance, or tales of the sea, these recommendations will transport you to worlds just as captivating as 'Ondine.'

Splash (1984)
Description: A romantic comedy with a fantastical twist, featuring a mermaid who comes ashore in search of love. The film balances humor, romance, and a touch of magic, all while exploring the challenges of blending two different worlds.
Fact: The film was a major box office success and helped popularize the modern mermaid genre. The underwater scenes were filmed in a specially constructed tank.


The Little Mermaid (1989)
Description: A beloved Disney classic that tells the story of a mermaid who dreams of life on land. The film combines enchanting music, vibrant animation, and a timeless tale of love and sacrifice, all set in a magical underwater world.
Fact: The film marked the beginning of the Disney Renaissance, a period of critical and commercial success for the studio. It won two Academy Awards for its music.


The Secret of Roan Inish (1994)
Description: A magical realism film that blends folklore with a heartfelt family story, set against the backdrop of the sea. It explores themes of myth, belonging, and the deep connection between humans and nature.
Fact: The film is based on the novel 'The Secret of Ron Mor Skerry' by Rosalie K. Fry. It was shot on location in Ireland, capturing the raw beauty of the coastal landscapes.


MirrorMask (2005)
Description: A visually stunning fantasy film that delves into a dreamlike world filled with surreal imagery and strange creatures. The narrative explores themes of identity, dreams, and the blurred line between reality and imagination.
Fact: The film was written by Neil Gaiman and features artwork by Dave McKean. It was produced by the Jim Henson Company, known for its innovative puppetry and visual effects.


Lady in the Water (2006)
Description: A modern fairy tale that blends mystery, fantasy, and drama. The story revolves around a water nymph discovered in a swimming pool, weaving together elements of myth and human connection in an urban setting.
Fact: The film was inspired by a bedtime story the director created for his children. It features a unique narrative structure that plays with traditional fairy tale tropes.


Stardust (2007)
Description: A charming and adventurous fairy tale that blends romance, fantasy, and humor. The story follows a young man's journey into a magical realm to retrieve a fallen star, encountering witches, pirates, and other fantastical beings along the way.
Fact: The film is based on the novel by Neil Gaiman. It features a cameo by a famous author who appears as a quirky shopkeeper.


The Water Horse (2007)
Description: A family-friendly adventure that combines historical drama with fantasy. The story follows a young boy who discovers a mysterious egg that hatches into a mythical sea creature, exploring themes of friendship and wonder.
Fact: The film is based on the novel by Dick King-Smith, who also wrote 'Babe.' The creature, Crusoe, was brought to life through a mix of CGI and animatronics.


Ponyo (2008)
Description: A whimsical and heartwarming animated tale that reimagines the classic 'Little Mermaid' story. It features a young fish-girl who longs to become human, exploring themes of love, transformation, and the power of nature.
Fact: The animation was created using traditional hand-drawn techniques, with over 170,000 individual frames. The film's vibrant color palette was inspired by the sea and marine life.


Song of the Sea (2014)
Description: An animated feature rich in Celtic mythology, focusing on selkies and the bond between siblings. The story weaves together fantasy and emotional depth, with stunning visuals that evoke the mystery and allure of the ocean.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. It was hand-drawn, giving it a unique and timeless aesthetic.


The Shape of Water (2017)
Description: A visually striking fairy tale for adults, blending romance, fantasy, and drama. The narrative revolves around a mysterious aquatic creature and a deep, unconventional love story, set against a backdrop of Cold War intrigue.
Fact: The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. The creature was inspired by classic monster movies but designed to evoke empathy and beauty.
