On this day March 9 1984 the fantasy romantic comedy Splash premiered in theaters starring Tom Hanks and Daryl Hannah. Directed by Ron Howard the film followed the story of a man who falls in love with a mermaid who saved him as a child. Combining humor romance and a touch of fantasy Splash became one of the defining films of the 80s.
The film was a major box office success and helped launch Tom Hanks as a leading man in Hollywood. It also introduced Daryl Hannah as a beloved star and cemented Ron Howard’s reputation as a top-tier director. Splash remains a classic in the romantic comedy genre and played a role in Disney’s move into more adult-oriented films under the Touchstone Pictures label.
80s insight: Ron Howard turned down the opportunity to direct Mr. Mom and Footloose to direct Splash a decision that helped shape his directing career.
The film was a major box office success and helped launch Tom Hanks as a leading man in Hollywood. It also introduced Daryl Hannah as a beloved star and cemented Ron Howard’s reputation as a top-tier director. Splash remains a classic in the romantic comedy genre and played a role in Disney’s move into more adult-oriented films under the Touchstone Pictures label.
80s insight: Ron Howard turned down the opportunity to direct Mr. Mom and Footloose to direct Splash a decision that helped shape his directing career.
