THE ORIGINAL MERMAID
Annette Kellerman (1887 – 1975) was an Australian who became one
of the most famous women of her day around the world, but who is now largely
forgotten by history.
She conquered rickets as a child by learning to swim, and then kept on
going, becoming a champion swimmer, and a star of vaudeville and silent
cinema. Although she never made a feature film in Australia, she became
a major Hollywood star in epics such as Daughter of the Gods (1916) –
a highly successful extravaganza that helped to make her a legend internationally
as “The Diving Venus”.
As a long distance swimmer, diving sensation and underwater ballet performer,
she was unrivalled. Her innovative underwater ballet act inspired the
sport of synchronised swimming, and she had a crucial role in the evolution
of women’s swimwear. She also found time to write a series of books
on health, beauty and physical fitness, pioneering a wholesome philosophy
that was a precursor to many modern health movements. Along the way Kellerman
helped forge a new identity and sense of possibility for women around
the world.
The Original Mermaid is a vibrant, luscious and effervescent celebration
of a wonderful character. Kellerman was a spunky, pioneering woman who
triumphed against adversity with her almost unstoppable determination.
While she never saw herself as being part of the emerging feminists or
suffragettes her spirit and actions were those of a trailblazer.
Writer: Michael Cordell
Director: Michael Cordell
Producer: Ian Collie
Executive Producer: Chris Hilton
Production Company: Hilton Cordell
© 2007-09 Cordell Jigsaw Productions