Mermaids' Lament

Released Nov 17, 2023

1 hr. 31 min.

Drama

Fantasy

List

100%

5 Reviews

Tomatometer

The story of two women who find strength in each other despite their personal struggles, MERMAIDS' LAMENT follows two women: Oee (Dayva Summer Escobar) a traumatized woman who has lost her voice and may or may not be a mermaid. Her therapist, Dr. Nell Jamison (Justina Mattos) battles with anxiety herself, attempts to help Oee overcome her delusions and connect with reality. As they bond over their experiences, they learn to be resilient like the ocean and embrace the power of imagination to navigate the chaos of the world.

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Meeko M

The stunning cinematography perfectly captures the beauty of its Hawaiian setting, while the enchanting story and authentic characters draw you in and make you truly care about their journey. The film strikes a perfect balance between light and dark moments. 5 out of 5

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

04/03/24

Full Review

PS S

Director GB Hajim has crafted a remarkable independent film that showcases the immense talent of its lead actresses, Dayva Escobar and Justina Mattos. Both deliver nuanced and mature performances that bring depth and authenticity to their roles.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

04/03/24

Full Review

colleen n

What a delight to see a movie made on the Big Island of Hawaii at the historic Hilo Palace Theater with GB Hajim, the director and writer, and the cast in attendance. The crowd loved it! GB's underwater cinematography is spectacular. Full disclosure: GB is a friend of mine, but the only reason I'm on Instagram is to watch his mesmerizing marine videos. It reminds me of the wonder and magic I felt as child, watching "Jacques Cousteau." Mahalo nui loa, Zelda

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

03/14/24

Full Review

Sam L

Mermaid's Lament is a poignant and beautifully crafted film. Escobar's portrayal of Oee is captivating, while Mattos's portrayal of her therapist is raw and authentic. The film's thoughtful screenplay enhances its testament to the resilience of human spirit, making it a must-watch for those who appreciate deeply emotional and thought-provoking cinema.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

02/27/24

Full Review

Elaine N

Thought provoking. Beautifully done. The actresses draw you in with their expressions. The world needs more of this kind of movie!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

02/25/24

Full Review

Joe R

A visually stunning look at trauma and neurodivergency in a world facing capitalist inspired environmental collapse. The movie is both original and thought compelling, and leaves the viewer with a sense that there is a way forward despite the difficulties of modern living. Well worth seeing.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

02/25/24

Full Review

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G.B. Hajim

Director

Dayva Summer Escobar

Oee

Justina Mattos

Nell

Michael Gregory Gong

Ed

Owen Costello

Actor

Kurt Chambers

Actor

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Sabina Dana Plasse

Film Threat

Well-acted and beautifully presented, Mermaid’s Lament is an enjoyable watch.

Rated: 8.5/10

Aug 29, 2023

Full Review

Debbie Lynn Elias

Behind The Lens

Mermaids' Lament weaves its spell upon you from beginning to end.

Aug 2, 2023

Full Review

Michael A. Smith

MediaMikes

Both Escobar and Mattos bring true emotion to their performances, a fine achievement when you learn that both actresses are making their feature film debut.

Rated: 3/5

Jul 8, 2023

Full Review

Bobby LePire

Film Threat

Mermaid’s Lament is an engaging drama about who people are and what they need from life.

Rated: 8/10

Jun 27, 2023

Full Review

Evan Dossey

Midwest Film Journal

Hajim clearly had a story he wanted to tell about trauma and recovery. He made the movie he wanted to make, and it is powerful when it works.

Jun 27, 2023

Full Review

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Synopsis

The story of two women who find strength in each other despite their personal struggles, MERMAIDS' LAMENT follows two women: Oee (Dayva Summer Escobar) a traumatized woman who has lost her voice and may or may not be a mermaid. Her therapist, Dr. Nell Jamison (Justina Mattos) battles with anxiety herself, attempts to help Oee overcome her delusions and connect with reality. As they bond over their experiences, they learn to be resilient like the ocean and embrace the power of imagination to navigate the chaos of the world.

Director: G.B. Hajim
Screenwriter: G.B. Hajim
Production Co: Tween Sea and Sand
Genre: Drama, Fantasy
Original Language: English
Release Date (Theaters): Nov 17, 2023, Limited