Mermaids is a 1990 American comedy-drama film directed by Richard Benjamin and starring Cher , Bob Hoskins , Winona Ryder (who was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for best supporting actress for her role), and Christina Ricci in her first film role. It is based on the 1986 novel of the same name written by Patty Dann . It was shot in and around the towns of Rockport , Gloucester , Ipswich , Lincoln and Pawtucket .

Directed by Kevan Peterson. With Emmy Perry, Elisabeth Röhm, Morgan Fairchild, Jack Dylan Grazer. Siren Phillips has lived her life thinking she's an ordinary girl, in an ordinary town. On the eve of her twelfth birthday, however, she learns that she is far from ordinary. Destined to turn into a Mermaid at the age of twelve, Siren must struggle with her new reality, saying good bye to her mother and friends, while she transitions into the water. To make matters worse, a group of Hunters are ...