Mermaids
-
Is it age appropriate?
About our ratings -
Is it any good?
-
Common Sense says
Moving, but teen sex content meant for discussion.
Why We Rated This
for Ages 13–14
What to watch out for
-
Violence:
-
Sex:
-
Language:
-
Consumerism:
-
Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
What Parents Need to Know
This review of Mermaids was written by Heather Boerner
Parents need to know that though this movie is set in 1963, there's some teen and parent sex going on here. Teenage Charlotte has unprotected sex. Mrs. Flax has sex with her boyfriend on the first date and later kisses the boy she knows Charlotte has a crush on. This movie also deals with death and estrangement; Charlotte's father abandoned her and she's always seeking him. Kate is seriously injured and nearly dies. Both Charlotte and Kate get drunk while their mom is out.
Families Can Talk About
- Families can talk about their attitudes on sex, birth control, promiscuity -- the works. Do teen and parent values match? They can also talk about Charlotte's absent father. How does this affect her life and relationships with boys?
More on Mermaids
What’s the Story?
Is It Any Good?
Charlotte has an inner monologue that's completely different from the one she shares with the world. In her head, she's thinking, "I kissed a boy and I think I might be pregnant." But when Mrs. Flax begs her to talk, all she can do is shrug and roll her eyes. What parents and teens won't be able to relate to this? Add on the fabulous performances of Bob Hoskins and Christina Ricci and you have an adorable and moving coming-of-age movie that's likely to be as prescient today.
Movie Details
Run time: 110 minutes
Theatrical release: 9/25/1990, DVD release: 2/6/2001
MPAA Rating: PG-13

Become a member and get recommendations from other parents based on your child's age.

