Dive into the enchanting world of mermaids and romance with “The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast” as hosts Krissy Lenz and Nathan Blackwell make a splash discussing the 1984 hit film Splash. This delightful romantic comedy starring Tom Hanks and Daryl Hannah captures the magic of first love and the fish-out-of-water story that charmed audiences nearly four decades ago.
The hosts explore the film’s premise, following the story of Allen Bauer, a man who can’t seem to find love until he’s reunited with a mermaid he encountered as a child. They discuss the chemistry between Hanks and Hannah, praising their performances as career-defining roles that almost went to other actors. The podcast delves into the film’s special effects, particularly the impressive underwater scenes and mermaid transformations that still hold up today.
Krissy and Nathan highlight John Candy’s memorable turn as Allen’s lovable but irresponsible brother Freddie, and Eugene Levy’s scene-stealing performance as the determined scientist obsessed with proving mermaids exist. They examine how Splash popularized the name Madison and influenced the “fish out of water” trope in 80s cinema.
The hosts also touch on the film’s enduring charm, its exploration of love and belonging, and the bittersweet ending that leaves audiences pondering the sacrifices we make for love. They discuss how Splash balances comedy, romance, and fantasy elements to create a timeless classic that continues to captivate viewers.
Other topics covered include:
- The film’s impressive practical effects, especially the underwater scenes
- The humor derived from Madison learning English through television
- The government’s comically extreme reaction to discovering a mermaid
- The movie’s influence on romantic comedies and fantasy films
- A brief mention of the made-for-TV sequel Splash, Too
- Comparisons to other fish-out-of-water stories like Beverly Hills Cop
- The hosts’ ratings of the film and their deep-cut recommendations
Whether you’re a long-time fan of Splash or discovering it for the first time, this episode of “The Most Excellent 80s Movies Podcast” offers a fun, insightful look at a beloved 80s classic. Dive in for a discussion that’s sure to make you fall in love with this mermaid tale all over again.
