Mermaid Ending Explained: "Rusalka" or "Mermaid" based on Pushkin, an opera by Dargomizhsky, and other sources: A prince and a miller's daughter have been involved in a romance together, but now the prince tells her that he must break it off. Directed by Vasiliy Goncharov, this 1910 fantasy film stars Vasili Stepanov (The miller), alongside Aleksandra Goncharova as Natalya, miller's daughter, Andrey Gromov as The prince. Rated 5.3/10, the conclusion has sparked discussion among viewers.

What Happens at the End of Mermaid?

"Rusalka" or "Mermaid" based on Pushkin, an opera by Dargomizhsky, and other sources: A prince and a miller's daughter have been involved in a romance together, but now the prince tells her that he must break it off. After the prince leaves, the distraught young woman attempts to drown herself. When the prince's wedding day arrives, he is tormented by her image, which appears wherever he goes. Eventually, he is compelled to return and to try to find out what happened to her, regardless of the consequences.

Vasiliy Goncharov's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Vasili Stepanov (The miller)'s journey. After the prince leaves, the distraught young woman attempts to drown herself.

How Does Vasili Stepanov (The miller)'s Story End?

  • Vasili Stepanov: Vasili Stepanov's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
  • Aleksandra Goncharova (Natalya, miller's daughter): Aleksandra Goncharova's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
  • Andrey Gromov (The prince): Andrey Gromov's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.

Is Mermaid Based on a True Story?

Yes — Mermaid draws from real events. The ending reflects documented outcomes, though Vasiliy Goncharov has taken creative liberties in dramatizing specific scenes for cinematic impact.

What Does the Ending of Mermaid Mean?

The ending of Mermaid brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Vasili Stepanov's story may not satisfy all audiences.