The Little Mermaid
The Little Mermaid

Movie spotlight

The Little Mermaid

1989
Movie
83 min
English

This colorful adventure tells the story of an impetuous mermaid princess named Ariel who falls in love with the very human Prince Eric and puts everything on the line for the chance to be with him. Memorable songs and characters -- including the villainous sea witch Ursula.

Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes94%
Metacritic88/100
Google Users87%
Director: John Musker, Ron ClementsGenres: Animation, Family, Fantasy, Musical, Romance

Plot Summary

A curious and adventurous mermaid princess named Ariel makes a dangerous deal with a sea witch to trade her beautiful voice for human legs so she can explore the world above the sea and win the heart of a human prince. As she navigates her new life on land, Ariel must race against time to make the prince fall in love with her before a looming deadline, or she will lose her soul forever.

Critical Reception

The Little Mermaid was met with widespread critical acclaim, praised for its stunning animation, memorable songs by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, and strong character development. It is widely regarded as the film that launched the Disney Renaissance, revitalizing the studio's animated features after a period of decline. Audiences also embraced the film, making it a significant box office success.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its vibrant animation and captivating musical numbers.

  • Ariel's journey and character development were highlighted as compelling.

  • Hailed as a return to form for Walt Disney Animation Studios.

Google audience: Google users largely admire 'The Little Mermaid' for its enchanting story, classic Disney animation, and unforgettable songs. Many appreciate Ariel's spirit and the film's overall magical quality, though some note that modern audiences might find certain plot elements dated.

Awards & Accolades

Won 2 Academy Awards (Best Original Score, Best Original Song for 'Under the Sea') and nominated for 1 more. Also won 3 Grammy Awards and was nominated for 2 Golden Globes.

Fun Fact

The voice of Ariel, Jodi Benson, also provided the voice for the character of Barbie in the 1994 film 'Toy Story'.

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