Slow pace in the most part of the movie.

SERIOUSLY. This is what the crap Hollywood still puts out?

Let me be very fair here, this is not the best movie in my opinion. But, this movie is fun, it has purpose and is very enjoyable to watch.

Let me be very fair here, this is not the best movie in my opinion. But, this movie is fun, it has purpose and is very enjoyable to watch.

I believe that I've Heard the Mermaids Singing should have done far better in the box office. It is a clever movie that tells an original story about a unique character who takes quirkiness to a new, and quite charming, level. The film utilizes the main character, Polly's, odd dreams to foreshadow and explain events throughout its 81 minuet running. Although some may find it to be too complicated, or think that it makes no sense, a closer look reveals many creative and clever elements that can help one better understand the film and its characters. Some such elements are Polly's first dream, which in about a minuet manages to foreshadow the entire film, and the film's final scene, which demonstrates that Gabrielle has come to realize that aging does not take away from beauty, thanks to Polly. The film also shows its aptitude for symbolism in the names of certain locations, namely the Church Gallery. The art gallery's name represents Polly's "worship," as one could call it, of Gabrielle and the world of art. Despite all of this, I've Heard the Mermaids Signing only grossed $1,408,491 in the box office, far less than the 597th most grossing movie of all time, Collateral, which made $100,003,492. I believe that a movie with such a creative plot, and with characters that are extremely relatable and lovable, deserves to be much higher on the list. A list, I feel I should point out, that it didn't even make. Saying that this film is under-appreciated is a massive understatement.

I usually don't watch movies more than once. But this lovely film is one that I have regular cravings for. It is so smart, unpretentious, and unassuming. It's subtle and multi-layered and such a treat to view.It's a quiet film too, with refreshing insights and ideas about relationships. The contemplative pace of the film gives you time to enjoy the ideas and feelings that come up in the characters and in yourself. On more than one occasion while watching the film my breath was taken away with surprise and delight. I guess another draw for me is the female characters: how refreshing to meet women who are multidimensional, portrayed with authority and authenticity (and having interesting faces I could watch forever).And I love how the story is so simple, a late bloomer's coming of age (or rather coming into her creativity)--a 'bildungsroman' in a film about art. Thanks Patricia Rozema et al! What a treasure.

Sheila McCarthy shines in this exploration of the imagination, the artist and the self.It is one of my top ten films of all time because of its originality and ,of course, McCarthy's offbeat and touching performance. She creates something truly original that has not been matched in a female comedic performance since.Direction is crisp, unexpected and magical. One can see why it was given a standing ovation at Cannes.It is one of the few films that can me on a pure emotional level..appealing to the misunderstood individual.Anyone who has felt like they don't fit in will love this movie. Be sure to watch the closing credits to the end.Now On DVD with Rozema's commentary.

This is a wonderful film. I first saw it back in the eighties and it is still fresh in the mind. The title is a quote from T S Eliot and refers to epiphany. There seem to be a lot of spiritual references. Did everyone else not notice the significance in the older woman being named Gabrielle and the younger Mary? Gabrielle could not create what the earthier Mary could but was her muse. I am not sure of this but Polly in the Canadian accent sounds like Paul-y. The disseminator of the faith? Any comments from anyone? Yes it was small budget but still beautiful. Polly was hilarious. I loved Mary (not that she would be likely to give me the time of day). Check out a book that the actress, Ann-Marie MacDonald, wrote: Fall on Your Knees.Anybody know where I can get the DVD in London?