Virginie Gaines

Written by Virginie Gaines

Modified & Updated: 03 Dec 2024

Sherman Smith

Reviewed by Sherman Smith

35-facts-about-the-movie-splash
Source: Rottentomatoes.com

Welcome to the magical world of Splash, a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of audiences since its release in 1984. Directed by Ron Howard, this enchanting romantic comedy tells the story of Allen, a New York City businessman, who falls in love with a mysterious woman named Madison. However, there’s a twist – Madison is a mermaid. With its blend of comedy, romance, and fantasy, Splash has remained a beloved film throughout the years, captivating audiences with its charming characters, memorable moments, and iconic performances. In this article, we’ll dive into the depths of the movie, uncovering 35 fascinating facts that make Splash a true cinematic gem. So, grab your fins and get ready to explore the oceanic wonders of Splash!

Key Takeaways:

  • Splash” is a classic romantic comedy released in 1984, starring Tom Hanks and Daryl Hannah. It explores themes of love, acceptance, and the beauty of New York City, captivating audiences for over three decades.
  • The movie’s groundbreaking special effects, memorable soundtrack, and timeless story have left a lasting impact on pop culture, inspiring other mermaid-themed films and continuing to charm audiences of all ages.
Table of Contents

Splash was released in 1984

Splash, directed by Ron Howard, made a big splash in the film industry when it was released in It became a huge success and is considered a classic in the romantic comedy genre.

The movie stars Tom Hanks and Daryl Hannah

Tom Hanks plays the lead role of Allen Bauer, a man who falls in love with a mermaid named Madison, played by Daryl Hannah. Their on-screen chemistry is one of the highlights of the movie.

Splash was nominated for an Academy Award

The movie received one Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay. This recognition is a testament to the film’s witty and entertaining script.

The character Madison has a unique tail

In the movie, Madison’s tail was fully animatronic, which was a groundbreaking achievement at the time. The special effects team did an incredible job in bringing the mermaid to life on the screen.

The film features a memorable soundtrack

The soundtrack of Splash includes the popular song “Love Came For Me” performed by Rita Coolidge. It adds a magical touch to the romantic moments in the film.

Splash was a box office success

The movie grossed over $69 million at the box office, making it one of the highest-grossing films of Its popularity among audiences helped cement its status as a beloved film.

It was Disney’s first PG-rated film

Splash was the first movie released by Disney that had a PG rating, as opposed to their traditional G-rated family films. This allowed for a slightly more mature storyline and humor.

The film explores themes of love and acceptance

Alongside its comedic moments, Splash delves into deeper themes such as the importance of accepting others for who they are and the true power of love. These messages resonate with audiences of all ages.

Splash inspired a TV movie and a TV series

The success of the movie led to a TV movie sequel called Splash, Too, which aired in It also inspired a television series that ran for two seasons from 1994 to 1997.

The movie was originally written for the big screen

The script for Splash was initially written as a spec script for a feature film. It eventually caught the attention of Disney, and they decided to produce it with Ron Howard as the director.

The character Allen Bauer is afraid of water

Ironically, the main character played by Tom Hanks has a fear of water, making his relationship with a mermaid even more intriguing and complex.

The movie was partly filmed in New York City

Splash takes place in New York City, and many scenes were shot on location in the Big Apple, adding authenticity to the film’s setting.

The name “Madison” became popular after the film’s release

One interesting fact is that the name “Madison” became more popular as a girl’s name following the release of Splash. It is believed that the movie contributed to the name’s rise in popularity.

Splash was a breakthrough role for Tom Hanks

While Tom Hanks had appeared in films before Splash, it was this movie that truly catapulted him to stardom. His performance as Allen Bauer showcased his comedic timing and charm.

Daryl Hannah learned to swim like a mermaid for the role

To prepare for her role as a mermaid, Daryl Hannah underwent intense swimming lessons to learn how to move gracefully through the water like a mermaid.

The movie addressed societal norms and stereotypes

Splash challenged traditional gender roles and stereotypes as it depicted a female character who was strong, independent, and unapologetically different.

The film was celebrated for its humor

One of the reasons why Splash became a beloved movie is its clever and lighthearted humor. The comedic moments woven throughout the film keep audiences entertained from start to finish.

The mermaid’s tail was made of silicone

The animatronic tail used in the film was crafted using special effects techniques and made out of silicone. This allowed for a realistic and seamless integration with Daryl Hannah’s body.

The original ending of the movie was changed

In the initial ending, Madison stays with Allen on land, but it was ultimately changed to have her return to the ocean. This decision added a bittersweet element to the story.

Splash was praised for its cinematography

The cinematography in Splash was widely acclaimed for capturing the beauty of the ocean and the underwater sequences. The stunning visuals added to the overall enchanting experience of the film.

The screenplay was written by Lowell Ganz and Babaloo Mandel

The talented writing duo of Lowell Ganz and Babaloo Mandel crafted the screenplay for Splash. Their clever and witty dialogue contributed to the film’s success.

The movie inspired other mermaid-themed films

Splash paved the way for other mermaid-themed movies, such as The Little Mermaid, which became a Disney animated classic. Its influence on the genre is undeniable.

The character Freddie Bauer is based on a real person

The character of Freddie Bauer, played by John Candy, is based on the childhood friend of the film’s director, Ron Howard. This adds a personal touch to the character’s portrayal.

Splash was awarded a Saturn Award

The film received a Saturn Award for Best Fantasy Film. This recognition from the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror Films further solidifies Splash’s place in the fantasy genre.

The movie had a lasting impact on pop culture

Splash left an indelible mark on pop culture, with references and homages to the film appearing in various television shows, movies, and even music videos throughout the years.

Splash explores the complexities of love

Beyond the lighthearted comedy, Splash delves into the complexities of love, showing that love knows no boundaries, whether they be physical or societal.

The film showcased underwater scenes in a unique way

The underwater scenes in Splash were captured using a specially designed tank that allowed the actors to perform while being submerged. This innovative approach added realism to the film.

The movie features notable supporting actors

In addition to Tom Hanks and Daryl Hannah, Splash boasts an impressive supporting cast that includes Eugene Levy, John Candy, and Shecky Greene, adding depth and humor to the story.

The special effects in Splash were ahead of their time

The special effects used in Splash were considered cutting-edge at the time of its release. The seamless integration of practical effects and animatronics contributed to the film’s magical atmosphere.

The movie addresses themes of identity and self-discovery

Through Madison’s journey of self-discovery and Allen’s acceptance of her true nature, Splash encourages viewers to embrace their own identities and let go of societal expectations.

Splash has a timeless quality

Even though Splash was released over three decades ago, its themes of love, acceptance, and following one’s heart still resonate with audiences today. It remains a beloved film for generations to enjoy.

The movie showcases the beauty of New York City

Splash perfectly captures the vibrant energy and charm of New York City, showcasing iconic locations such as Central Park and the Statue of Liberty. It serves as a love letter to the city that never sleeps.

The film’s success led to more mermaid-themed media

Splash’s popularity gave rise to a wave of mermaid-themed media, including books, TV shows, and merchandise, all capitalizing on the enduring fascination with these mythical creatures.

Splash received positive reviews from critics

Critics praised Splash for its entertaining story, memorable performances, and charming humor. Its positive reception contributed to its long-lasting popularity.

The legacy of Splash lives on

Even after all these years, Splash remains a beloved film that continues to captivate audiences. Its timeless story, unforgettable characters, and witty humor make it a classic in the romantic comedy genre.

Conclusion

In conclusion, “Splash” is a timeless classic that continues to capture the hearts of audiences with its unique blend of romance, comedy, and fantasy. With a talented cast led by Tom Hanks and Daryl Hannah, and directed by Ron Howard, the film brings to life a mesmerizing tale of a man who falls in love with a mermaid. From the iconic scenes at the Statue of Liberty to the heartfelt moments shared between the characters, “Splash” remains a beloved film that has left a lasting impact on cinema. Whether you’re a fan of romantic comedies or simply enjoy a captivating story, “Splash” is a must-watch movie that promises laughs, tears, and a touch of magic.

FAQs

1. Is “Splash” based on a true story?

No, “Splash” is not based on a true story. It is a fictional tale created by screenwriters Lowell Ganz, Babaloo Mandel, and Bruce Jay Friedman.

2. Who played the mermaid in “Splash”?

Daryl Hannah portrayed the mermaid named Madison in “Splash.” Her mesmerizing performance brought the character to life and captivated audiences.

3. When was “Splash” released?

“Splash” was released on March 9, 1984. It quickly became a box office success and gained critical acclaim for its unique storyline and charming performances.

4. Who directed “Splash”?

Splash” was directed by Ron Howard, who is known for his work in both film and television. His direction brought a magical touch to the film and helped create its enduring charm.

5. Are there any sequels or spin-offs of “Splash”?

No, there are no official sequels or spin-offs of “Splash.” However, the film did inspire a television series named “Splash” in the 1990s, which featured a similar premise but different characters.

6. What awards did “Splash” receive?

“Splash” was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. It also received nominations for Golden Globe Awards and Saturn Awards.

7. Can children watch “Splash”?

“Splash” is generally considered suitable for all ages. However, parents may want to review the film’s content to ensure it aligns with their family’s values and the maturity of their children.

8. Where was “Splash” filmed?

The majority of “Splash” was filmed in and around New York City, including iconic locations like the Statue of Liberty. The picturesque backdrop adds to the film’s charm and ambiance.

9. What is the running time of “Splash”?

The running time of “Splash” is approximately 111 minutes. It offers a perfect balance between storytelling and entertainment.

10. Is “Splash” available for streaming?

Splash” is available for streaming on various platforms, including popular streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu.

Splash's enduring charm owes much to Daryl Hannah's captivating performance as Madison. This beloved fantasy film paved the way for other mermaid-themed movies, capturing audiences' imaginations with its unique blend of romance and comedy. Director Ron Howard's deft touch brought the story to life, showcasing his skill at crafting heartwarming tales that resonate with viewers of all ages.

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