I've Heard the Mermaids Singing (1987) movie backdrop
I've Heard the Mermaids Singing (1987) movie poster
198781 minComedy, Drama
Audience VerdictAVERAGE

I've Heard the Mermaids Singing

I've Heard the Mermaids Singing Movie Hit or Flop?

FLOP

Verdict:I've Heard the Mermaids Singing is a confirmed FLOP based on our analysis of audience ratings and box office momentum.

With a rating of 5.6/10, it has delivered a mixed experience for fans of the Comedy, Drama genre.

Is I've Heard the Mermaids Singing Worth Watching?

Answer: Maybe not, I've Heard the Mermaids Singing is likely a skip if you enjoy Comedy movies.

It features a runtime of 81 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.

5.637 votes
81Minutes
1987Release Year
Visual Story
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I've Heard the Mermaids Singing Review

Last updated: January 11, 2026

🎬 The Premise

Released in 1987, I've Heard the Mermaids Singing enters the Comedy genre with a narrative focused on Scatterbrained Polly gets a job as a secretary in Gabrielle's art gallery. Under the direction of Patricia Rozema, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.

🎭 Cast & Performance

The film is anchored by performances from Sheila McCarthy. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.

🎥 Technical Mastery & Style

From a technical standpoint, I've Heard the Mermaids Singing offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.

🌍 Social Impact & Cultural Context

Beyond the narrative, I've Heard the Mermaids Singing resonates with current cultural themes in the Comedy space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.

📺 Where to Watch & Streaming Info

As of early 2026, I've Heard the Mermaids Singing is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. It is also featured on platforms like Amazon Prime Video with Ads. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Video roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.

📖 Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown

The plot of I've Heard the Mermaids Singing centers on a unique premise within the Comedy landscape. Scatterbrained Polly gets a job as a secretary in Gabrielle's art gallery. Polly aspires to be a professional photographer, and idolizes Gabrielle for her artistic ability. When Gabrielle rekindles an old romantic relationship with the younger painter Mary, Polly becomes jealous, and discovers Gabrielle isn’t exactly who she claims to be. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1987 cinema will find fairly predictable.

💡 Ending Explained & Sequel Potential

The ending of I've Heard the Mermaids Singing has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a I've Heard the Mermaids Singing sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.

📝 Final Editorial Verdict

Final verdict for I've Heard the Mermaids Singing (1987): with an audience rating of 5.6/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Comedy, Drama cinema who appreciate attention to detail.

Where to Watch I've Heard the Mermaids Singing Online?

Streaming Hub

📺 Stream on

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🎟️ Rent on

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🏷️ Buy on

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Parents Guide & Age Rating

R
I've Heard the Mermaids Singing is rated R. It is intended for mature audiences only.

Final Verdict

Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.6/10, and global collection metrics, I've Heard the Mermaids Singing stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1987 cinematic year.

Official Trailer

Frequently Asked Questions

Is I've Heard the Mermaids Singing movie hit or flop?

I've Heard the Mermaids Singing has received mixed reviews with a 5.6/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.

Is I've Heard the Mermaids Singing worth watching?

I've Heard the Mermaids Singing is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Comedy, Drama movies, but read reviews first.

Where can I watch I've Heard the Mermaids Singing online?

I've Heard the Mermaids Singing is currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. You can also check for it on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Prime Video with Ads depending on your region.

Explore More Verdicts

Expert Consensus
Live Rating
MOVIEMX
★ 5.6
I've Heard the Mermaids Singing
<a href="https://moviemx.in/review/ive-heard-the-mermaids-singing-117233" target="_blank" style="text-decoration:none;"><div style="background:#121212;border:1px solid #f5c518;border-radius:12px;padding:15px;width:180px;text-align:center;font-family:sans-serif;box-shadow:0 10px 20px rgba(0,0,0,0.3);"><div style="color:#f5c518;font-size:10px;font-weight:900;letter-spacing:2px;">MOVIEMX</div><div style="color:white;font-size:28px;font-weight:900;margin:8px 0;">★ 5.6</div><div style="color:#888;font-size:12px;font-weight:500;">I've Heard the Mermaids Singing</div></div></a>

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More with Sheila McCarthy

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People Also Ask (FAQs)

Is I've Heard the Mermaids Singing movie hit or flop?

I've Heard the Mermaids Singing has received mixed reviews with a 5.6/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.

Is I've Heard the Mermaids Singing worth watching?

I've Heard the Mermaids Singing is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Comedy, Drama movies, but read reviews first.

Where can I watch I've Heard the Mermaids Singing online?

I've Heard the Mermaids Singing is currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. You can also check for it on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Prime Video with Ads depending on your region.

What is the story of I've Heard the Mermaids Singing?

I've Heard the Mermaids Singing is a Comedy, Drama movie that follows: Scatterbrained Polly gets a job as a secretary in Gabrielle's art gallery. Polly aspires to be a professional photographer, and idolizes Gabrielle for her artistic ability. When Gabrielle rekindles an...

Is I've Heard the Mermaids Singing family friendly?

Yes, I've Heard the Mermaids Singing is generally suitable for family viewing as it is a Comedy, Drama movie.

What language is I've Heard the Mermaids Singing available in?

I've Heard the Mermaids Singing is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.

Synopsis

Scatterbrained Polly gets a job as a secretary in Gabrielle's art gallery. Polly aspires to be a professional photographer, and idolizes Gabrielle for her artistic ability. When Gabrielle rekindles an old romantic relationship with the younger painter Mary, Polly becomes jealous, and discovers Gabrielle isn’t exactly who she claims to be.

Critic Reviews

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