Well done documentaries allow viewers an unvarnished and unscripted glimpse into an unknown world. Usually the more salacious, shocking, and scary, the more naturally compelling a subject, which is why documentaries tend to drift into and shed light on the macabre. In a world overrun with dark documentaries (don't get me wrong, I like those too), MerPeople gets it right by shining the light on and calling our attention to something as positive and all American as Apple Pie. Something, dare I say, sparkly? Yes, sparkly and fabulous Apple Pie.
Without stepping on the shoulders of political scandal, dark crime, or other sinister low hanging fruit, MerPeople fascinates and spellbinds the viewer. Why? MerPeople allows viewers an authentic look at a quirky and fun subculture that has developed and is still developing. The Mer subculture rests on a foundation that most people can stand by and root for: inclusion, diversity, and celebrating being your authentic self.
I was Mer ignorant before watching the show. Had know idea that this subculture existed with such prevalence. After watching and meeting the likes of Blix, Che, and Sparkles I feel compelled to root for these Mers. And I also feel a strong sense of protectionism. Ready to stand as a Mer ally against the Cool Kids who, fueled by their own insecurity and self loathing, will likely take cheap shots at this group of happy merpeople who were all brave and secure enough in who they are to allow us viewers a glimpse into their inner world. You won't find me putting on a tail any time soon (probably not ever, because I am simply not a sparkly or fabulous person), but I will happily cheer and root for this group of authentic people living their best happy sparkle filled lives.
This documentary is a fun, family friendly watch! Recommend checking it out and checking your judge-y insecure High School Cool Kid ego at the door. Kudos to the creators. It's really nice to see everyday people who are simply enjoying life getting the spotlight, as opposed to psychos committing criminal deeds.
(Notes for the creative team and other producers who, yeah, should absolutely read my epic reviews. Great job with this one. I am ready for more content! Suggestion: a separate documentary spinoff on how those tails are made! Seems like a goldmine of really interesting content about the business side of things and also it seems like there are a good number of vendors out there competing with MerTailor (who was a supercool company to feature). Second recommendation, please do dive into more quirky fun subcultures filled with interesting and dynamic people pursuing their passions. Super interesting and fun to watch. Well done!)
