Who doesn’t have nostalgic memories of mermaids from their childhood, whether it be Ariel or Daryl Hannah? Well, this Hot Docs favourite takes an endearing look at people united by their love of mermaids. Or rather, their love of “mermaiding”, which is to say identifying as mermaids. It may sound like an eccentric lifestyle choice, but director Ali Weinstein takes their calling seriously, and examines the healing capabilities of fantasy to work through real world pain, whether it be abuse, discrimination, or struggles with identity. The result is a meditative work of art that has some healing power of its own.
Director Ali Weinstein and producer Caitlin Durlak
will be in attendance for post-screening Q&As on July 14 (6:30 p.m.) and July 15 (4:00 p.m. and 8:45 p.m.).