Common Sense Media Review
By Joly Herman
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Fun undersea adventure oddly paired with lots of shopping.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 5+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Barbie in a Mermaid Tale
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 8 parent reviews
Based on 16 kid reviews
Kids say that this movie is a nostalgic favorite, especially for those who grew up with it, as it features catchy songs and a family-friendly storyline. However, opinions vary, with some finding the plot predictable and the characters annoying, while others appreciate it as a cute and entertaining choice for young viewers, highlighting its positive representation and absence of inappropriate content.
- nostalgic favorite
- catchy songs
- family-friendly
- positive representation
- entertaining choice
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
When Merliah (voiced by Kelly Sheridan) competes in a Malibu surfing tournament her hair turns a gnarly shade of pink. This sends her underwater -- where she discovers she can not only breathe but understand a dolphin speaking to her. Merliah soon finds out that she is not only half-mermaid, but the daughter of the Queen of Oceana. And Oceana is in trouble thanks to a cruel leader who has imprisoned her mother. With the help of her new underwater friends, Merliah must find three magical objects in order to reclaim her title as princess and to set her mother free.
Is It Any Good?
Because the underwater world is full of fascinating scenery, and because the adventure is pretty exciting, the rampant consumerism in this movie really is a drag. Couldn't the girls in Oceana be pretty and fun without being so utterly focused on their clothes and hair? That said, Barbie fans will enjoy the ride, though parents might cringe to hear their girls mimicking the totally gnarly surf-speak that pervades the Malibu beach scenes.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how consumerism in movies like this influences viewers. Here are some tips that can help your kids see through the hype.
Did kids notice the swimsuit figures? Do they seem realistic? Is the Barbie shape a realistic one for girls? For anyone?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : March 9, 2010
- Cast : Kathleen Barr , Kelly Sheridan , Tabitha St. Germain
- Director : Adam L. Wood
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Universal Studios Home Entertainment
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic )
- Run time : 75 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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