MERMAIDS is the story of the turbulent relationship between a flamboyant, outrageous mom (Cher) and her two daughters (Winona Ryder and Christina Ricci) who just want a normal, stable life. Socially rebellious and provocative, the mother is reluctant to settle down, even at the request of her two daughters (one of whom, despite being Jewish, longs to enter a convent). The unusual family has moved 18 times in the last 15 years, usually whenever Mrs. Flax senses she might have to commit to a relationship. But this time the girls hope the family will stay put, and their conflicting desires lead to a final, near-tragic result.
Shot in Panavision; theatrical aspect ratio of 1.66:1.

Winona Ryder won the 1990 Best Supporting Actress Award from the National Board of Review.

Estimated budget $20 million.

Shot in Cambridge, Manchester, Essex, North Easton, Waltham, Malden, and Rockport, Massachusetts, in echnicolor.

Filming began September 25, 1989; completed December 20, 1989. Released in USA and Toronto December 14, 1990. Reviewed in the New York Times and the Los Angeles Times on December 14, 1990.

Rated BBFC 15 by the British Board of Film Censors.

1989

PG-13 (MPAA)

Director .......................  Richard Benjamin
Starring .......................  Christina Ricci,
                                     Cher,
                                     Bob Hoskins,
                                     Winona Ryder
Composer .....................  Jack Nitzsche
Production Designer ........ Stuart Wurtzel
Director of Photography.... Howard Atherton
Editor ..........................  Jacqueline Cambas
Producer........................ Lauren Lloyd,
                                     Wallis Nicita,
                                     Patrick Palmer
Screenwriter .................. Patty Dann,
                                     June Roberts