Watch The Mermaid Chair

The Mermaid Chair is a 2006 American television film based on the best-selling novel of the same name by Sue Monk Kidd. Directed by Steven Schachter, it stars Kim Basinger, Alex Carter, and Bruce Greenwood in lead roles. The film tells the story of a woman named Jessie Sullivan, who returns to her hometown to care for her mother and reconnects with an old flame, leading her to question her life choices. The plot of The Mermaid Chair revolves around Jessie Sullivan (Kim Basinger), a middle-aged woman who is struggling to come to terms with her marriage and her place in the world. When her mother (Maggie Grace) suffers a mental breakdown, Jessie decides to return to her childhood home on Egret Island to help care for her. It is here that she reconnects with a local priest named Father Hugh (Alex Carter), with whom she had a romantic relationship as a teenager. As Jessie spends more time on the island, she begins to explore the mystical beliefs and traditions of the Gullah people, a culture of African slaves brought to the area centuries ago. She also begins to uncover family secrets that force her to confront her own past and the choices she has made in her life. Meanwhile, she finds herself drawn to Father Hugh once again, despite his commitment to the church and his own inner turmoil. The film is a character-driven drama that explores themes of love, loss, and personal growth. It is anchored by strong performances from the three leads, particularly Basinger, who brings a deep emotional resonance to her portrayal of Jessie. The film is also visually stunning, with lush cinematography that captures the natural beauty of the island and its surrounding seas. The Mermaid Chair is a poignant and thought-provoking film that will resonate with anyone who has ever struggled to find their place in the world. It is a moving exploration of the human condition that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. With its strong performances, beautiful cinematography, and gripping storyline, it is a must-see for anyone who loves powerful, character-driven drama.