Mermaids have long captured our imaginations with their ethereal beauty and mysterious allure. From ancient myths to modern cinema, these enchanting creatures have been portrayed in various ways, each story adding its own twist to the legend. This curated list of 10 mermaid fantasy films offers a dive into the depths of fantasy, romance, and adventure. Whether you're a fan of classic tales or looking for something more contemporary, these films will transport you to underwater realms where magic and love intertwine.

Splash (1984)
Description: A romantic comedy where a young man falls in love with a mermaid who saves him from drowning. This film blends humor with fantasy, offering a light-hearted take on the mermaid mythos.
Fact: Daryl Hannah, who played the mermaid, actually swam with dolphins to prepare for her role, and the film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.


The Little Mermaid (1989)
Description: This Disney classic tells the tale of Ariel, a mermaid princess who falls in love with a human prince and makes a deal with a sea witch to gain legs. It's a timeless story of love, sacrifice, and the pursuit of dreams, making it a cornerstone in mermaid fantasy cinema.
Fact: The film was the last Disney animated feature to use hand-painted cels, and it was also the first Disney film to be released on video while it was still being shown in theaters.


The Secret of Roan Inish (1994)
Description: This film explores Irish folklore, where a young girl discovers her family's connection to the Selkies, creatures similar to mermaids. It's a gentle, poetic exploration of myth and family.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Donegal, Ireland, adding to its authentic feel.


The Thirteenth Year (1999)
Description: A Disney Channel Original Movie where a boy discovers he's turning into a merman on his thirteenth birthday. It's a coming-of-age story with a fantastical twist.
Fact: The film was part of Disney's strategy to produce family-friendly content for television.


Aquamarine (2006)
Description: Two teenage girls discover a mermaid who has washed ashore after a storm. They help her find love with a lifeguard, exploring themes of friendship and the magic of first love.
Fact: The film was shot in Australia, and the mermaid's tail was custom-made, weighing over 40 pounds.


Mr. Peabody & Sherman (2014)
Description: While not exclusively about mermaids, this animated adventure includes a visit to ancient Greece where Sherman encounters mermaids. It's a fun, educational romp through history with a touch of fantasy.
Fact: The film was based on characters from the 1960s animated series "The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show."


Ponyo (2008)
Description: From Studio Ghibli, this film tells the story of a goldfish princess who yearns to become human after meeting a young boy. It's a whimsical, visually stunning take on the mermaid legend.
Fact: Hayao Miyazaki, the director, was inspired by "The Little Mermaid" and his own childhood memories for this film.


Mermaid Down (2019)
Description: A modern take on the mermaid myth, where a fisherman captures a mermaid, leading to unexpected consequences. This indie film explores themes of freedom, love, and the supernatural.
Fact: The film was shot in Canada and features practical effects for the mermaid's tail, emphasizing a more realistic approach to the fantasy element.


The Mermaid (2016)
Description: A Chinese fantasy comedy where a mermaid is sent to assassinate a businessman who is polluting her home, but instead, she falls in love with him. It's a modern twist on the classic tale with a strong environmental message.
Fact: This film became the highest-grossing film in China at the time of its release, surpassing even Hollywood blockbusters.


The Mermaid: Lake of the Dead (2018)
Description: A Russian fantasy film where a young man falls in love with a mermaid who lives in a lake. It's a dark, atmospheric tale with a tragic love story at its heart.
Fact: The film was inspired by Slavic folklore and features stunning underwater cinematography.
