Mermaids (1990)

"Mermaids" (1990) follows the eccentric Flax family, led by the free-spirited Mrs. Flax and her two daughters, Charlotte and Kate, as they navigate the complexities of life and love in the 1960s. Fifteen-year-old Charlotte, yearning for stability, chafes against her mom's unpredictable lifestyle, hoping their latest move to a small Massachusetts town will finally bring them a sense of belonging. Amidst new romances and budding adolescence, Charlotte's attraction to an older man forces the family to confront their own desires and learn to accept one another, ultimately discovering the power of their bond. This coming-of-age dramedy is a prime example of director Richard Benjamin's ability to balance humor and heart. Benjamin expertly crafts a warm and whimsical portrayal of the unconventional Flax family, deftly capturing the struggles and triumphs of their relationships. His direction emphasizes the characters' emotional journeys, from Winona Ryder's rebellious Charlotte to Cher's captivating portrayal of the free-spirited Mrs. Flax. "Mermaids" showcases Benjamin's skill in eliciting compelling performances and creating a film that is both entertaining and deeply resonant, solidifying its place as a standout in his filmography.