Aquamarine

2006 Comedy

Two teenagers think they have problems until they come to the rescue of a girl with a fishy story to tell in this teen-oriented comedy. Thirteen-year-old Claire (Emma Roberts) and same-aged Hailey (Joanne "JoJo" Levesque) are two close friends living in Tampa, FL, who are facing a separation in a few weeks -- Claire's mother is a marine biologist who has been given a prestigious new job in Australia, meaning the girls are not likely to see much of each other again. While the girls wonder if there's anything they can do to avoid the inevitable, a storm breaks out and the waves toss an unusual example of sea life into Hailey's swimming pool -- Aquamarine (Sara Paxton), a teenaged mermaid who has some problems of her own. Aquamarine's father is a leader of the undersea world who has arranged for his daughter to marry a boy whom she doesn't care for. It seems Dad doesn't put much stock in the land-locked notion of love, and unless Aquamarine can prove to him that it's real, she will have to go through with the wedding. Claire and Hailey find Aquamarine, and discover that she fortunately sprouts legs when on dry land during the daylight hours; after learning of her romantic dilemma, they decide to help her by teaching her how to turn the head of Raymond (Jake McDorman), a cute lifeguard at the nearby beach. However, pretty Aquamarine learns her lessons well enough to make Cecilia (Arielle Kebbel), a mean girl with a crush on Raymond, jealous, leading her into a battle over the young man's affections, which Aquamarine has to win if she wants to avoid a loveless marriage. Aquamarine was the first feature film from director Elizabeth Allen. more..

Director: Elizabeth Allen

Starring: Emma Roberts, Joanna 'JoJo' Levesque, Sara Paxton, Jake McDorman, Arielle Kebbel

Reviews

  • The movie has a sweetness and innocence that makes it near perfect entertainment for its target audience.

    Ruthe Stein - The San Francisco Chronicle

    29 November 2012

  • A bright and breezy tween fantasy romantic comedy that coasts along on its charming performances and the light comedic touch of first-time feature director Elizabeth Allen.

    Michael Rechtshaffen - The Hollywood Reporter

    29 November 2012

  • Despite corny one-liners and plot developments that don't always hold water, Aquamarine rises above the flotsam filling theaters this time of year with a likable tale of friendship and charming performances.

    Staff [Not Credited] - USA Today

    29 November 2012

  • Unique because it's the rare movie that fiercely respects the altruistic loyalty that bonds girls to one another.

    Wesley Morris - The Boston Globe

    29 November 2012

  • Ms. Paxton isn't quite as magnetic as a movie mermaid ought to be, but the two buddies are a treat to watch, especially Ms. Roberts, showing the genes of her Aunt Julia.

    - The New York Times

    29 November 2012

Awards

  • Favorite Movie Star

    Kids' Choice Awards, Australia (2007)

     
  • Movies - Choice Breakout (Female)

    Teen Choice Awards (2006)

     
  • Best Performance in a Feature Film - Supporting Young Actress

    Young Artist Awards (2007)