Which young actor and actress starred in, and which young actor directed, the 1984 film, Splash?

The beloved 1984 romantic comedy about a man who falls for a mermaid was a pivotal film for the three young talents at its core. The movie served as the first major leading film role for Tom Hanks, who played the lovable protagonist Allen Bauer. Prior to this, Hanks was primarily known for his role in the television sitcom *Bosom Buddies*. His charming and funny performance in *Splash* set him on a direct path to becoming one of Hollywood's most celebrated actors.

Starring opposite Hanks was Daryl Hannah as the curious and enchanting mermaid, Madison. Her portrayal became iconic and is credited with single-handedly popularizing the name Madison for girls in the United States, which was a very uncommon first name before the film's release. The movie solidified her status as a leading lady in the 1980s.

Behind the camera was director Ron Howard, who was successfully making the difficult transition from famous child actor to respected filmmaker. Known to generations as Opie on *The Andy Griffith Show* and Richie Cunningham on *Happy Days*, Howard proved his directorial talent with this film, which became his first major commercial and critical success. The movie was also the first-ever release from Disney's Touchstone Pictures, a new banner created to produce films for more mature audiences.