Splash Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A guy who can’t find a girlfriend ends up dating a mermaid, which causes chaos until they both decide to ditch society and live underwater.

🍿 Splash: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Allen’s Childhood Encounter

The film opens with a young Allen Bauer on a family boat trip near Cape Cod in 1964. He spots something in the water and dives in, encountering a young mermaid. This brief encounter leaves a lasting impression on Allen, even though no one believes him.

Reunion in Cape Cod

Twenty years later, Allen, now running the family produce business, returns to Cape Cod after a breakup. He falls into the sea again and is rescued by a beautiful woman. Unbeknownst to him, it’s the same mermaid from his childhood.

Madison Comes to New York

The mermaid, now named Madison, finds Allen’s wallet and follows him to New York City. Upon arriving, she has legs when dry but transforms into a mermaid when wet. She learns English by watching TV at Bloomingdale’s, leading to humorous cultural misunderstandings.

The Secret Revealed

As Allen and Madison’s relationship deepens, Allen finds himself falling in love with her. However, their secret is threatened by scientist Walter Kornbluth, who suspects Madison is a mermaid. He exposes her at a dinner attended by the President, leading to their capture.

Capture and Escape

Madison and Allen are taken to a lab where Madison is held for scientific study. With the help of Freddie and a remorseful Kornbluth, Allen rescues Madison. They flee through the streets of New York, pursued by the authorities.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Allen Bauer (Tom Hanks): A lonely, somewhat hapless produce distributor who falls in love with a mermaid, changing his life forever.
• Madison (Daryl Hannah): A beautiful and naive mermaid who seeks out the man she saved as a child and finds herself falling in love.
• Freddie Bauer (John Candy): Allen’s womanizing and irresponsible but ultimately supportive older brother who provides comic relief and helps Allen.
• Walter Kornbluth (Eugene Levy): An eccentric and persistent scientist determined to prove the existence of mermaids, acting as a comedic antagonist.
• Dr. Ross (Richard B. Shull): A cynical scientist who initially dismisses Kornbluth’s theories but later exploits Madison for research purposes.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Allen: “I don’t know what it is, but every time I come to this ocean, something wonderful happens to me.” – Allen expresses his connection to the ocean, foreshadowing his encounter with Madison.
• Madison: “Madison.” – Madison names herself after seeing the street sign for Madison Avenue.
• Freddie: “It’s not that you drank too much, it’s that you don’t weigh enough.” – Freddie jokingly explains why Allen gets drunk so easily, showcasing his comedic personality.
• Madison: “I’m different.” – Madison finally acknowledges she is not like other people.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $11,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $69,821,334
• Worldwide Gross: $69,821,334

💥 Splash Reviews

Personal Review

I remember seeing ‘Splash’ as a kid and being completely mesmerized. Daryl Hannah was so beautiful and Tom Hanks so relatable. The whole idea of a mermaid living in New York City was pure magic. I loved the scene where Madison learns English from TV and starts speaking in commercial slogans; it’s still hilarious. Even now, it’s a feel-good movie that brings back those nostalgic 80s vibes and reminds me that sometimes, the most unexpected love stories are the best.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of romantic comedies”
  • “Tom Hanks fans”
  • “Viewers who enjoy 80s movies”
  • “People interested in fantasy elements in romance”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Brief nudity”
  • “Some suggestive humor”
  • “Mild language”

Professional Reviews

• Rotten Tomatoes: “A sweet, funny, and charming romantic comedy, Splash is elevated by excellent performances from Tom Hanks and Daryl Hannah.
• Variety: “Ron Howard’s ‘Splash’ is a charming fantasy that blends romance and comedy with a touch of the fantastic. Hanks and Hannah have great chemistry, and the supporting cast shines.

Audience Reactions

Daryl Hannah’s enchanting performance as Madison, the mermaid, is unforgettable.: Viewers consistently praise the film’s unique storyline and heartwarming romance.

The comedic chemistry between Tom Hanks and John Candy brings levity to the story.: Many agree that ‘Splash’ balances humor and romance effectively.

Overall Consensus: A beloved 80s romantic comedy that blends fantasy with heartfelt storytelling, driven by strong performances and memorable moments.

Awards

1. Academy Award (Best Original Screenplay)- 1985

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Daryl Hannah’s mermaid tail was a custom-made prosthetic that took months to design and construct. It weighed approximately 30 pounds and required her to be carried around on set.”
• “To prepare for her role, Daryl Hannah spent extensive time in the water, learning to swim like a mermaid from a professional synchronized swimmer.”
• “The scene where Madison learns English by watching television was inspired by real-life instances of people learning languages through immersion.”
• “The underwater scenes were filmed using innovative techniques for the time, including specially designed tanks and lighting to create a realistic underwater environment.”

🖥️ How to Watch Splash?

Splash is currently available for purchase or rental on various platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies. Check your preferred streaming service for availability, as options may vary by region. Physical copies (DVD, Blu-ray) are also available from major retailers.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Splash, you might like these similar films:

• The Shape of Water (2017): A woman falls in love with an aquatic creature, facing societal prejudices and fighting to protect their unconventional relationship. Thematic Similar
• Big (1988): Another Tom Hanks film from the 80s that explores themes of innocence, wonder, and a childlike perspective on the world, offering similar heartwarming and comedic elements. Era-Specific Alternative
• Aquaman (2018): Features a prominent underwater kingdom and explores the relationship between the human world and the world beneath the sea, appealing to those fascinated by aquatic fantasy. Modern Equivalent
• Ladyhawke (1985): A fantasy romance where the lovers are cursed. Similar because the lovers are forbidden and must overcome obstacles to be together. Thematic Similar

🛒 Splash Related Products

• Splash (Blu-ray): Experience the magic of ‘Splash’ in stunning high definition with this Blu-ray edition, featuring bonus content and behind-the-scenes footage.
• Funko Pop! Daryl Hannah as Madison: A Funko Pop! figure immortalizing Daryl Hannah as Madison, the mermaid from Splash. A perfect addition to any collector’s shelf.
• 80s Movie Soundtrack Compilation: A compilation album featuring iconic songs from 80s movies, potentially including ‘Love Came For Me’ from Splash.
• Mermaid Tail Blanket: A cozy and fun mermaid tail blanket to snuggle in while watching Splash.

🎧 Soundtrack

Splash features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Love Came For Me” – performed by Rita Coolidge
• “Main Title” – performed by Lee Holdridge

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

When Tom Hanks Read For “Splash” | CONAN on TBS

Curious about how Tom Hanks landed his breakout role in ‘Splash’? This interview on Conan reveals the hilarious story behind his audition and the dynamics on set.

John Candy Was Hungover During the Famous Racquetball Scene in ‘Splash’

Prepare to chuckle! This clip reveals the hilarious secret behind John Candy’s unforgettable performance in ‘Splash’s racquetball scene.

✨ Rate