“Invasion of the Mermaids,” an upcoming film set for release in 2025, dives into the mystical world of mermaid folklore with a fantasy-horror twist. Directed by Wang Yanpeng, the story is inspired by legends from Chinese mythology. It follows the journey of Chen Shui, a young man whose wedding night is shattered when his bride is kidnapped by the Jiaoren, mythical mermaids believed to produce precious pearls from their tears. Chen embarks on a perilous journey to a remote island in the South China Sea, seeking answers and a way to rescue his beloved.
The Jiaoren are portrayed as complex and dangerous beings, not simply the enchanting mermaids of Western tales but vengeful spirits whose actions harbor a deeper mystery tied to humanity’s relationship with the sea. As Chen and his companions delve further into the heart of the Jiaoren’s realm, they uncover the tragic past and intentions of these creatures, exploring themes of environmental conflict, vengeance, and reconciliation.
With an anticipated budget of approximately $20 million, the film brings high-quality CGI to capture the otherworldly allure and terror of the mermaids. Wang Yanpeng aims to combine action and suspense with cultural depth, showcasing both spectacular underwater sequences and eerie, atmospheric horror as the island’s secrets are slowly revealed. The project includes elaborate underwater cinematography and practical effects, aiming to transport audiences to an ancient, mythical seascape rarely explored in mainstream cinema.
“Invasion of the Mermaids” also stars prominent Chinese actors like Jarvis Wu and Yu Xiao-Wan. It has generated buzz on streaming platforms, expected to release on Tubi and other services upon its theatrical debut
