The Little Mermaid (1980): cast, story & where to watch
1980 · Film · ★ 5.7

Released in 1980, The Little Mermaid is a drama film directed by Roger Andrieux, running about 105 minutes. “Love makes us do strange things...” — that tagline sets the tone.
What it’s about. A 40-year-old mechanic whistles at a passing teenager; she stops and upbraids him. In embarrassment, he claims he was whistling at her companion, her 14-year-old cousin, Isabelle. This changes Isabelle's outlook on life: her favorite story is Anderson's "Little Mermaid," and she thinks that in Georges she's found her prince. She follows him, engages him in conversation, and turns up at his flat. At first, he pushes her away and tells her she's nuts, but slowly he finds that she brings out of him a playful self, and he likes her devotion. The attraction builds, threatening Georges' adult relationships, including that with Nelly, his sweetheart. Where on earth can this affair lead?
Who’s in it. The Little Mermaid stars Philippe Léotard as Georges Maréchal, Laura Alexis as Isabelle Pélissier, Évelyne as Nelly and Marie Dubois as Bénédicte Pélissier.
How it landed. With an audience score of 5.7/10, The Little Mermaid has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The Little Mermaid page.
If you liked it. Fans of The Little Mermaid tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch The Little Mermaid (1980)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for The Little Mermaid change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is The Little Mermaid worth watching?
- The Little Mermaid holds an audience score of 5.7 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy drama. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in The Little Mermaid?
- The Little Mermaid stars Philippe Léotard, Laura Alexis, Évelyne and Marie Dubois.
- When was The Little Mermaid released?
- The Little Mermaid was released in 1980, with a runtime of about 105 minutes.