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A Dive Into The Little Mermaid

Writer's picture: medievaltimesmedievaltimes
By Yolany Ortega

Heartwarming scene of Prince Eric finding out Ariel’s name.
Heartwarming scene of Prince Eric finding out Ariel’s name.

“The Little Mermaid” is a 1989 Disney film starring Jodi Benson. It was written by Hans Christian Andersen and directed by John Musker and Ron Clements. The film will celebrate its 35th anniversary this year, and for its production, it won three Academy Awards. 


The movie opens with a scene of vibrant colors and visuals of Atlantica. Ariel narrates the story by starting about how she feels out of place and wants to see the world aside from the sea. She also expresses her admiration for human life and her desire to explore it, although her father, King Triton, forbids it. 


Ariel has been collecting human artifacts for years and dreaming about what life would be like to live as a human. With this wish, Ursula offers her a trade to become a human, but this would come with consequences through this transformation. 


Ariel accepts her offer, and as she is on land, she uses her new legs and thinks fondly about how her dreams have just become a reality. She realizes and admires the new freedom that she has just been granted.


Ursula has assigned Ariel the task of gaining Prince Eric’s trust and learning more about human ways to prove that she belongs on land instead of in the sea. Without her voice, she was still struggling with the struggles and happiness of being on land and with Prince Eric. As she spent more time with him, she fell in love with him, started embracing her human side, and teamed up with Eric to save both of the worlds that were priceless to them. 


The movie was a big success and received many nominations and awards, including two Academy Awards. “The Little Mermaid” is known for its incredible underwater animation, fascinating songs, and passionate storyline. The two different spirits of Ariel and Eric bring the story together as they fall in love with each other and end up with the exact wants at the end of the movie.


There were many different emotions throughout the movie that just kept changing and adapting with each scenario that played throughout the screenings. A core moment is when Ariel gives up her voice to Ursula in exchange for being human, a huge sacrifice she makes to live out her dream of being human. This scene is empowering because it shows Ariel's determination to take significant risks for freedom and love. 


The movie's central message is to show that following your dreams and accepting individuality are very important throughout life and how they will impact you. However, it is also essential to understand family and agreement. Ariel’s journey brings light to pursuing her wants while respecting those around her who are caring for her.


“The Little Mermaid” is a must-watch for its heartfelt story and unforgettable characters, which are suitable for all ages.


Alen Menken and Howard Ashmen made the soundtrack, including many classics that added emotional depth to the scenes. Throughout the years, “The Little Mermaid” has fascinated its audiences through its legacy and great animations.


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