Browse films

Hollywood's Mermaid: The Esther Williams Story

Brian Gersten
United States, 2026, 20 min.

In English.

AIFF Award Winner:
Jury Award for Creative Achievement

From swimming champion to Hollywood starlet, Esther Williams was arguably one of the most recognizable actresses of the 1940s, 50s, and 60s yet her story has been all but forgotten. She broke down barriers, persevered through tragedies, and showed a level of strength and self-determination that was rare for a woman of her era. Hollywood’s Mermaid takes a deep dive into the overlooked and under-appreciated career of one of America’s most impressive women.

Director's Statement

I only became aware of Esther Williams about a year ago while doing research for another project. As a film nerd and history buff, I was flabbergasted that I had never heard of Esther before and that there had never been an independent documentary made about her incredible life. Consequently, I decided to develop the Esther Williams documentary that I wanted to see in the world.

Category: Documentary, Festival Alum, Short, Award Winner.
Themes: Biography, Sports.

More in Documentary

  • You're No Indian

    You're No Indian

    Ryan Flynn
    2025, 83 min.

    THIS IS NOT A MOVIE. IT’S A MOVEMENT. Thousands of Native Americans, including elders, teachers and children, have been unjustly banished from their... more ›

  • Magdalena Hausen: Frozen Time

    Magdalena Hausen: Frozen Time

    Yannis Karpouzis
    Germany, 2025, 25 min.

    German photographer Magdalena Hausen crosses post-war political history of Europe in her quest to make a photograph of the wind. An experimental film about... more ›

  • The Sinks

    The Sinks

    Jacob Staudenmaier
    United States, 2026, 16 min.

    A small band from Tucson - comprised of four best friends - plays their final show at the end of college... more ›