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The Little Mermaid is a classic animated film released by Disney in 1989, based on the fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen. It is notable for being part of the “Disney Renaissance,” a period when the studio experienced a resurgence in critical and commercial success with a string of animated hits. The movie features memorable music, stunning animation, and a strong central heroine.
Plot Summary:
The story follows Ariel, a young mermaid princess who dreams of living on land. She is the youngest daughter of King Triton, ruler of the underwater kingdom of Atlantica. Fascinated by the human world, Ariel collects human artefacts and frequently visits the surface, despite her father’s strict orders to stay away from humans. Ariel’s best friends include a fish named Flounder and a crab named Sebastian, who tries to keep her out of trouble.
Ariel’s life changes when she saves Prince Eric from a shipwreck and falls in love with him. Desperate to be with him, she makes a dangerous deal with the sea witch, Ursula, trading her voice in exchange for legs so she can live as a human for three days. If she can get Eric to fall in love with her and kiss her within that time, she can stay human forever. If not, she will belong to Ursula.
Characters:
1. Ariel: The protagonist, Ariel is a curious, adventurous, and independent mermaid. She is a rebellious teenager who is determined to explore the human world. Ariel is known for her beautiful red hair and iconic voice, provided by Jodi Benson.
2. Prince Eric: The handsome and kind prince who Ariel saves. He becomes the object of her affection, but initially, he only knows Ariel by her voice, making it challenging when she loses it after the deal with Ursula.
3. King Triton: Ariel’s father, who is very protective and controlling, particularly in matters relating to humans, whom he distrusts. He has the power to control the ocean with his trident.
4. Ursula: The villain of the story, Ursula is a cunning sea witch who seeks to overthrow King Triton. She manipulates Ariel’s desire to become human in order to gain control of the seas. She is known for her octopus-like appearance and manipulative nature.
5. Sebastian: A red crab who serves as King Triton’s advisor and Ariel’s reluctant guardian. He is responsible for one of the film’s most famous songs, “Under the Sea.”
6. Flounder: Ariel’s loyal and timid fish friend who helps her in her adventures.
7. Scuttle: A seagull who considers himself an expert on human culture, though his knowledge is often hilariously inaccurate.
Music:
The film’s soundtrack, composed by Alan Menken with lyrics by Howard Ashman, is one of its defining features. It includes iconic songs such as:
• “Part of Your World” - Ariel’s yearning anthem for life on land.
• “Under the Sea” - A lively, calypso-inspired song performed by Sebastian that encourages Ariel to appreciate her life under the ocean.
• “Kiss the Girl” - A romantic song sung by Sebastian as Ariel tries to win over Prince Eric.
Impact and Legacy:
The Little Mermaid was a massive success, both critically and commercially, and is credited with revitalising Disney’s animation division after a period of decline. The film won two Academy Awards (Best Original Score and Best Original Song for “Under the Sea”). Ariel became one of Disney’s most beloved princesses, and her story is often cited as a turning point in Disney’s portrayal of more independent and adventurous female leads.
Remakes and Spin-offs:
• In 2023, a live-action adaptation of The Little Mermaid was released, starring Halle Bailey as Ariel. The remake introduced new songs while maintaining much of the original’s charm.
• The film has also spawned multiple sequels, including The Little Mermaid II: Return to the Sea (2000), and a prequel, The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Beginning (2008).
• A television series aired in the 1990s, exploring Ariel’s adventures before the events of the original film.
The enduring popularity of The Little Mermaid continues to influence modern pop culture, and Ariel remains one of the most iconic Disney princesses to date.