Million Dollar Mermaid
Million Dollar Mermaid

Million Dollar Mermaid

1952Movie115 minEnglish

After overcoming polio, Annette Kellerman achieves fame and creates a scandal when her one-piece bathing suit is considered indecent.

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Insights

IMDb6.9/10
Director: Mervyn LeRoyGenres: Biography, Drama, Sport, Musical

Plot Summary

This biographical musical drama chronicles the life of Annette Kellerman, a pioneering Australian swimmer and vaudeville star. From her early days overcoming childhood leg braces to her rise as a celebrated synchronized swimmer and performer, the film showcases her determination and showmanship. It culminates in her groundbreaking, and controversial, one-piece swimsuit design that revolutionized women's swimwear.

Critical Reception

Million Dollar Mermaid was a critical and commercial success, celebrated for its vibrant Technicolor presentation and Esther Williams's dazzling aquatic performances. While often seen as a lighthearted musical, its depiction of a pioneering female athlete resonated with audiences.

What Reviewers Say

  • Esther Williams's swimming prowess is the undeniable star of the film.
  • The Technicolor cinematography and elaborate water ballets are visually spectacular.
  • A charming and inspiring biopic with a strong performance from Williams.

Google audience: Audience reviews highlight Esther Williams's captivating screen presence and her incredible talent as a swimmer, making the aquatic sequences a major draw. The film is often remembered for its nostalgic charm and inspirational true story.

Fun Fact

Esther Williams performed all of her own stunts in the film, including a dangerous sequence where she was submerged underwater for an extended period and had to rely on a hidden crew member to provide her with air.

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TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

Loosely based on the true story of Australian Annette Kellerman, this starts with her as a young girl under the care of her doting dad (Walter Pidgeon). He is on permanent watch around her as he is terrified that her disabling polio might e...