There are few movies that can truly touch all those who watch it and one of those is The Little Mermaid, which first debuted in 1989. Although this Disney film is primarily geared toward children, The Little Mermaid is one kids’ film that parents will not mind sitting through.
The star of this animated film, Ariel, is a mermaid who falls in love with a human, Prince Eric. It is a love so strong that she gives up her ability to sing or speak so that she can become human to be with her love. She, of course, does not come to this decision lightly, however, and struggles with whether she should make this sacrifice for a man she loves, but has never really met.
The Little Mermaid is more than just a love story, however, as it is filled with humor from Ariel’s friends, Flounder and Sebastian. They provide the comic relief necessary in what is such a powerful story and the characters aid Ariel in making important decisions along the way.
There is also an evil antagonist in the form of sea urchin Ursula. She is the one who grants Ariel her wish to be human and has her own evil agenda. To prevent Ursula from succeeding in her evil plot, Ariel has to get a kiss from Prince Eric.
The songs in The Little Mermaid are infectious and memorable. Among favorites are “Kiss the Girl,” and “Part of Your World.” The beauty of Ariel’s voice in “Part of Your World” contrasts harshly with her lack of a voice later in the film and she is almost like a different person without it.
The story of The Little Mermaid is sweet and beautiful. It teaches about love, loss, sacrifice, and the meaning of family. It is a must see in what has become a cynical and difficult world.