If you love Russian fantasy films or want to be introduced to one, Mermaid is a must-watch. The ending does make perfect sense though will repel those who are not familiar with the Rusalka story, but here does come across as incomplete, if the film was a little longer it could have been more rounded. Aside from that, Mermaid is a wonder. Visually, it is stunning with very skilled and beautifully-lit photography and charming scenery. The music score has a quirkiness and sumptuousness with a distinctive Russian quality to it, characteristically similar to the score of Amelie(in that it's quirky, charming and beautiful to listen to). The dialogue is noble and intelligent, with the comedy genuinely funny without being vulgar or in-your face, romantic parts whimsical and charming and tragic aspects affecting. The story, a very loose adaptation of The Little Mermaid with a touch of Rusalka too, is never dull and has a lot of emotional impact, with colourful fantasy elements and an appealing quirkiness, again Amelie-like. The characters are engaging, with a very relateable protagonist, while the acting is excellent, a big shout-out going to lead actress Mariya Shalaeva, even the word amazing isn't enough describing how good her performance is.
Overall, a wondrous film let down only by the incomplete-feeling ending. 9/10 Bethany Cox
Overall, a wondrous film let down only by the incomplete-feeling ending. 9/10 Bethany Cox