The Little Mermaid

Spoilers:

INTRODUCTION

Title: The Little Mermaid

Year of Release: 1989

Produced by: Walt Disney Feature Animation

Directed by: Ron Clements and John Musker

Duration: 83 minutes

Budget: Approximately $40 million

OVERVIEW

The Little Mermaid, a catalyst in Disney’s revival era known as the Disney Renaissance, redefined animated musical films. Released in 1989, it brought Hans Christian Andersen’s tale to life, adjusting the melancholy groundwork with vibrancy, humor, and memorable melodies. Focused on themes of ambition, transformation, and identity, it appealed to multigenerational audiences.

INTERESTING FACTS

• Ariel was the first Disney Princess inspired by a real actress, Alyssa Milano, whom Disney animators studied for character traits.
• Initially, Ariel was not a Disney princess; her story was intended as a unique standalone feature.
• The character of Ursula was modeled after the famous drag queen Divine, adding a layer of flamboyance and extravagance to her wickedness.
• Musical score composed by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, pivotal in revamping Disney’s approach to soundtracks.
• “Under the Sea” and “Part of Your World” became runaway hits, with the former winning an Academy Award for Best Original Song.

SPECULATION

• Rumors suggest Disney executives considered Ariel’s death mirroring Andersen’s narrative but dismissed it as unsellable to family audiences.
• Speculations abound regarding hidden subtexts in animation like subliminal images alleged in the cover art.
• Controversy surrounded the phallic imagery supposedly embedded in the original VHS cover but was often dismissed as accidental or coincidental.

SCANDALOUS DETAILS

• Uproar ensued around the original VHS cover, with accusations of phallic imagery present in the artwork of the castle. Disney later redesigned it.
• Some sexual innuendo in the animation was considered accidental yet sparked uproar among conservative audiences.
• The marriage scene controversy, where a background figure allegedly appears aroused, added fuel to critical misinterpretations.

INITIAL PUBLIC REACTION

The initial reaction to The Little Mermaid was overwhelmingly positive. Audiences applauded its vivid animation, character depth, and musicality. Critics hailed it as a return to form for Disney, signaling the end of what was a creative drought for the company. Parents valued it for its family-friendly appeal, while children were enchanted by the whimsical underwater world and relatable teenage angst encapsulated by Ariel.

Despite these nods of approval, the film’s subtle inclusion of controversy, from supposedly suggestive content to subliminal messages, faced backlash. However, these critiques remained minor compared to the film’s broad success.

LATER PERCEPTION

In retrospection, films like The Little Mermaid have cemented their status within animation history, serving as a blueprint for subsequent Disney masterpieces. Critics and scholars continually dissect its narrative structure, musical prowess, and groundbreaking animation technique utilizing CAPS (Computer Animation Production System) technology, a precursor to digital animation integration.

Criticism, however, points to the plot’s reinforcement of problematic stereotypes, including women’s objectification and dependence on romantic rescues, igniting discussions on feminism in animation. Despite these critiques, Ariel remains a beloved figure in pop culture.

The film continues to be a staple in Disney’s expansive catalog, influencing a generation while shaping the future trajectory of animated musical films. As a cultural touchstone, it has left an indelible mark, evidenced by numerous adaptations and reinventions, including live-action endeavors and stage musicals.

CONCLUSION

Ultimately, The Little Mermaid, while fraught with minor scandals and debates, remains a landmark achievement in cinematic storytelling. Its ability to transcend time and adapt through various media forms speaks to the enduring legacy and universal appeal attributed to its tale.

The Little Mermaid – Stats Card

Year: 1989

Directors: John Musker, Ron Clements

Production Studio: Walt Disney Pictures

Financial Metrics

Budget: $40 million

Box Office: $211.3 million worldwide

Main Characters

• Ariel: The little mermaid, curious and adventurous.
• Prince Eric: Ariel’s human love interest.
• Ursula: The sea witch, antagonist.
• King Triton: Ariel’s father, ruler of the merfolk.
• Sebastian: The crab, Ariel’s advisor and friend.
• Flounder: Ariel’s best fish friend.

Plot in Brief

A mermaid princess dreams of becoming human, trading her voice to a sea witch for legs. Challenges ensue.

Critical Reception

• Awards: 2 Academy Awards including Best Original Score.
• Rotten Tomatoes: 92% Fresh.
• IMDB Rating: 7.6/10.

Cast Highlights

• Ariel (Voice): Jodi Benson
• Prince Eric (Voice): Christopher Daniel Barnes
• Ursula (Voice): Pat Carroll

Soundtrack

Iconic, award-winning score by Alan Menken.

• “Part of Your World”
• “Under the Sea”
• “Kiss the Girl”

Impact

The Little Mermaid marked a Disney renaissance. Resurgence of musicals, heightened animation standards. Popularity soared, shaping childhoods.

Cultural Influence

Influence on modern animation undeniable. The film energized animated features, spawning sequels, Broadway adaptations.

Home Media Releases

Initially released on VHS, later DVD, Blu-ray. Constantly revived for new audiences.

Merchandising

Toys, apparel, books. Ariel remains a staple in Disney Princess lineup.

Trivia

• Inspiration drawn from Hans Christian Andersen’s tale.
• Originally conceived with tragic ending, altered for family-friendliness.
• Ariel’s appearance inspired by Alyssa Milano.
• Part of the Disney Renaissance.

Criticism

Theme of voice sacrifice debated. Some critique perceived dependency narrative.

Legacy

The Little Mermaid is still celebrated. Long-standing influence on animation, storytelling.

The Little Mermaid (1989) Beat Sheet

Opening Credits/Introduction: Under the sea we go, where the merfolk play, and our story begins.

Meet Ariel: Curious and rebellious mermaid princess with a thing for humans and hoarding their stuff.

Forbidden Desire: Ariel is fascinated by the human world, a big no-no in King Triton’s underwater kingdom.

The Shark Chase: Ariel and her fish buddy, Flounder, escape a shark, showcasing Ariel’s adventurous spirit and her disdain for the mundane mer-life.

The Shipwreck Salvage: Ariel explores a sunken ship, finds a fork (dinglehopper!), and demonstrates her obsession with human artifacts.

Sebastian’s Introduction: Meet the Caribbean crab tasked by Triton to keep Ariel in line. Good luck with that.

Triton Blows His Top: King Triton discovers Ariel’s secret grotto full of human stuff and destroys it, driving a wedge between father and daughter.

Ursula’s Sinister Plan: Enter the sea witch, Ursula, who’s been spying on Ariel and sees an opportunity to exploit her desire to be human.

Desperate Deal: Ariel trades her voice for legs in a risky deal with Ursula, betting she can win a true love’s kiss in three days or lose her soul.

First Steps on Land: Ariel goes ashore, meets Prince Eric, and starts her quest to make him fall in love with her, minus her voice.

“Kiss the Girl” Sequence: Sebastian engineers a romantic boat ride. Ariel and Eric almost kiss, but it’s thwarted by Ursula’s minions.

Ursula Takes Matters Into Her Own Tentacles: Seeing her plan failing, Ursula decides to take matters into her own, well, tentacles.

The Vanishing Voice: Ursula transforms into a beautiful woman (Vanessa), using Ariel’s voice to enchant Eric.

Ariel’s Heartbreak: Ariel sees Eric falling for Ursula’s disguise, her chances of fulfilling the deal disappearing.

The Wedding Ship: Ursula, as Vanessa, is about to marry Eric. Scuttle and the sea animals intervene, revealing Ursula’s true form.

Revealed True Colors: Chaos ensues, Ariel gets her voice back, but Ursula claims her as per their deal.

Final Showdown: Triton sacrifices himself to save Ariel, becoming part of Ursula’s collection of lost souls.

The Power of the Trident: Ursula, now wielding Triton’s trident, grows huge, summoning a storm and creating chaos.

Eric’s Heroic Stab: Prince Eric commandeers a ship and steers it right into Ursula, defeating her and dissolving all her spells.

Transformation and Reunion: Ariel becomes human for good, thanks to Triton’s blessing. He realizes humans aren’t so bad after all.

Wedding Bells: Ariel and Eric get married on a ship, surrounded by both their worlds, sealing the union of land and sea.

Final Fade-out: Ariel and Eric sail into the horizon, waving goodbye to her family, as we fade out to the closing credits.

Story Opening

The story opens underwater, in the vibrant world of Atlantica. We see Ariel, a curious young mermaid, exploring shipwrecks. Her fascination with the human world is evident. This sets the stage for her conflict between duty and desire. The opening establishes her character traits: adventurous, headstrong, and discontent with her life under the sea.

Writing Formula Breakdown

• Exposition: Introduce Ariel, her family, and the underwater kingdom.
• Inciting Incident: Ariel saves Prince Eric from drowning.
• Rising Action: Ariel makes a deal with Ursula to become human.
• Climax: The confrontation between Ariel, Ursula, and King Triton.
• Falling Action: Resolution of conflicts and return to the sea.
• Conclusion: Ariel’s happy marriage to Prince Eric, acceptance of her identity.

Character vs. Story Driven

The story is more character driven. Ariel’s journey is central to the narrative. Her choice to trade her voice for legs shapes the plot. The emotional stakes rise because of her personal desires and conflicts.

Memorable Character Traits

Ariel is memorable due to her strong will, adventurous spirit, and the longing for something beyond her reach. Her unique experience as a mermaid in love with a human resonates with audiences. The internal conflict between her family’s expectations and her personal desires is relatable and draws viewers in.

Main Characters

• Ariel: A curious and rebellious mermaid princess, longing for the human world.
• Prince Eric: A charming human prince, unaware of Ariel’s existence until she saves him.
• Ursula: The sea witch, embodying temptation and the darker side of desires.
• King Triton: Ariel’s father, protective of her and traditional in his views.
• Flounder: Ariel’s loyal fish friend, supportive and worried about her safety.
• Sebastian: The crab tasked with keeping an eye on Ariel, full of wisdom but often comedic.

Story Flow Template

1. Opening Scene: Introduce the underwater world; show Ariel’s curiosity.
2. Meet Supporting Characters: Introduce Flounder and Sebastian; establish their roles.
3. Inciting Incident: Ariel saves Prince Eric; her fascination grows.
4. Conflict: Ariel expresses her desire to be human; family reacts negatively.
5. Meeting the Antagonist: Ariel meets Ursula; the deal is struck.
6. Transformation: Ariel becomes human; struggles to adapt without her voice.
7. Rising Tension: Eric begins to fall for Ariel; Ursula plots against her.
8. Climactic Confrontation: Ariel fights Ursula with the help of her friends; Triton intervenes.
9. Resolution: Ariel regains her voice and chooses her identity; Triton accepts her choice.
10. Final Scene: Marriage between Ariel and Eric; acceptance of both worlds.

Simple Story Summary

The story is about Ariel, a young mermaid who dreams of becoming human. She falls in love with Prince Eric and trades her voice for legs to pursue him. Ariel faces challenges, including the scheming sea witch Ursula. Ultimately, she learns about identity, love, and the value of being true to oneself.

Expanded Breakdown of the Story

The Little Mermaid tells the story of Ariel, a spirited and rebellious mermaid princess. Content with her life beneath the sea yet disillusioned by the rigid rules of her underwater kingdom, Ariel dreams of living among humans. This creates a tension between her deep-seated longing for freedom and the expectations imposed by her father, King Triton.

Ariel’s tale begins with exploration. She and her sidekick, Flounder, venture through sunken ships, collecting human artifacts and daydreaming about the lives of those on land. This exploration symbolizes her strong desire for a world she cannot fully understand but feels drawn to. The world-building here is crucial, as it establishes not only Ariel’s character but also the allure and dangers of the human world.

The defining moment of the story arrives when Ariel saves Prince Eric from drowning. This encounter is vital; it ignites her passion and cements her desire to become human. The stakes are raised as she silently watches Eric from a distance, yearning for a connection. This moment sets the plot in motion, highlighting the theme of sacrifice.

The next act introduces Ursula: the sea witch who embodies temptation and deceit. Ariel’s desperation leads her to make a risky deal: her voice for human legs. This choice represents her transformation but also foreshadows the conflicts to come. Ursula’s education as a manipulative force challenges Ariel’s innocence and sets up the primary plot conflict: Ariel’s quest to reclaim her voice and win Eric’s love.

As Ariel navigates the human world, the audience witnesses her struggles and triumphs. Transitions between her underwater life and experiences on land drive the narrative forward, showcasing her determination but also her naivety. The budding romance between Ariel and Eric adds a layer of urgency. However, Ariel’s inability to communicate directly complicates their relationship, introducing further tension.

The climactic confrontation sees both Ariel and Ursula at their breaking points. Ariel, determined to prove her worth, fights to reclaim her voice, leading to a dramatic showdown. The sheer emotional weight of this moment resonates with the audience, demonstrating how far Ariel has come. The assistance of her friends—Flounder, Sebastian, and even King Triton—reveals the power of friendship and family in overcoming adversity.

The resolution ties together the various threads in a satisfying conclusion. King Triton’s acceptance of Ariel’s choice to be with Eric indicates growth; he learns to trust her decisions. The joyous ending, marked by Ariel’s transformation into a human and her marriage to Eric, closes the narrative circle. It emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and celebrating diversity between worlds.

Thematic Elements

• Desire vs. Duty: Ariel’s internal struggle between her wishes and family expectations.
• Identity: The quest for self-discovery and the journey toward understanding one’s true self.
• Love: The fairy tale romance that transcends boundaries and societal norms.
• Consequences: Exploring the ramifications of choices made in pursuit of dreams.

Throughout the story, these themes intertwine, creating a rich tapestry of emotions and experiences. Ariel’s evolution from a naive dreamer to a confident, assertive figure encapsulates the universal journey toward self-acceptance and empowerment.

Character Development

Each character in The Little Mermaid serves a purpose in the narrative, from the heroic qualities of Eric to the cunning nature of Ursula. Yet, it’s Ariel’s character arc that dominates the story. From her initial discontentment to her ultimate triumph, Ariel’s journey is a powerful representation of growth and transformation.

Ursula serves as a compelling foil to Ariel. While Ariel embodies innocence and hope, Ursula represents manipulation and greed. Their contrasting philosophies create dramatic tension, epitomizing the classic struggle between good and evil. The complexity added through their interactions enriches the narrative, making it more than a simple love story.

Writing Techniques

The use of vibrant visual storytelling is another hallmark of The Little Mermaid. The contrast between bright, colorful underwater scenes and the muted tones of the human world emphasizes Ariel’s internal conflicts. This technique effectively draws the audience into Ariel’s emotional landscape, making her journey feel authentic and relatable.

Music and Cultural Impact

The musical score, composed by Alan Menken, is an essential element of the storytelling process. The songs convey Ariel’s emotions beautifully, with “Part of Your World” encapsulating her longing. Music enhances the narrative, effectively summarizing emotional states and supporting the visual storytelling.

The cultural impact of The Little Mermaid extends beyond its narrative. It has reinvigorated interest in fairy tales and inspired various adaptations and spin-offs. The themes continue to resonate with new generations, speaking to timeless desires for exploration, acceptance, and love.

The Little Mermaid remains relevant. Its message of courage to pursue one’s dreams resonates across all ages. Ariel’s journey inspires viewers to embrace who they are, regardless of the challenges they face. The balance between character development, thematic depth, and engaging storytelling makes it a classic.

Key Takeaways

• A compelling opening sets the foundation for character exploration.
• Character-driven narratives promote emotional investment.
• The importance of clear structure in storytelling aids in pacing.
• The interplay of musical elements enhances thematic resonance.
• Timeless themes ensure continued relevance and cultural impact.

Final Thoughts

In essence, The Little Mermaid tells a story born from dreams. Ariel’s courageous journey teaches us about the importance of self-discovery. The balance between aspirations and responsibility resonates universally. Through strong character-driven storytelling, the film secures its place as a cherished classic.

Inciting Incident

The inciting incident in “The Little Mermaid” occurs when Ariel discovers Prince Eric’s ship and sees him for the first time. This moment sets the entire plot in motion. Ariel’s fascination with the human world is ignited, symbolizing her desire to break free from the constraints of her underwater life.

Symbolism: The ship represents a bridge between two worlds. It signifies Ariel’s yearning for adventure and the unknown. Her obsession with Eric reflects a deeper longing for identity and autonomy.

Act Structure

Each act in “The Little Mermaid” serves a critical role in developing the characters and propelling the narrative forward.

Act 1: Introduction

• Ariel’s life in the ocean is introduced. We see her collection of human artifacts, highlighting her fascination.
• The incident with Flounder and Scuttle shows her adventurous nature.
• Ursula’s introduction hints at looming threats.

Act 2: The Turn

• Ariel makes the deal with Ursula. This is pivotal; it shows her desperation to change her situation.
• The transformation scene introduces the physical and personal sacrifices Ariel has made.
• Building a connection with Eric solidifies her commitment to the human world.

Act 3: The Climax

• Ariel’s confrontation with Ursula is the peak of tension, testing her resolve.
• Eric’s fight against the sea witch leads to the climax of the story.
• Ariel’s decision to embrace her identity and reclaim her voice is transformative.

Overall, the structure provides a clear arc of desire, sacrifice, and acceptance, making Ariel’s journey relatable.

Climax

The climax occurs during the final showdown between Ariel, Ursula, and Eric. The emotional capital is immense. Ariel has sacrificed her voice for love and freedom, making this moment crucial.

Build-up: Throughout the film, Ariel’s struggles are evident. She is torn between her family and her dreams. The tension escalates as she learns that Ursula has tricked her and that she has lost her chance to be with Eric.

The emotional impact comes from Ariel’s realization of her own power. When she regains her voice, it’s not just about sound; it’s a reclaiming of her identity. The audience feels her pain and triumph, drawing them deeper into her journey.

Tension and Release

The movie builds tension through several mechanisms:

• Music: The score heightens emotional moments, especially during Ariel’s transformation and the climax.
• Conflict: Ariel faces multiple conflicts—internal (her desires vs. familial duty) and external (Ursula’s manipulations).
• Pacing: The juxtaposition of light-hearted scenes and darker moments keeps the audience engaged and anxious.

Release occurs mainly during Ariel’s moments of joy. Her first interactions with Eric provide relief after the heaviness of her sacrifices. The triumphant resolution, with Ariel gaining her legs, underscores her victory and offers emotional satisfaction.

Conclusion

The complexities of “The Little Mermaid” lie in its exploration of identity, sacrifice, and the struggle for freedom. Each character arc enriches the narrative, making it a memorable exploration of desire and self-discovery.

Ending Summary

The ending of The Little Mermaid shows Ariel, the main character, happily marrying Prince Eric after defeating Ursula, the sea witch. With the help of King Triton, her father, she is transformed back into a human permanently. Ariel’s choice to love Eric and her sacrifices for that love ensure her happiness and acceptance by her father.

Writers’ Categorization of the Ending

This ending fits into the category of a happy resolution or romantic conclusion. It provides closure and fulfillment, typical of fairy tales.

Symbolic, Thematic, and Speculative Meanings

• Symbolic Meaning: Ariel’s transformation symbolizes personal freedom and the pursuit of one’s dreams. The sea represents limitations and her wish to connect with the human world signifies her desire to grow and explore.
• Thematic Meaning: Major themes include love conquering adversity and the idea of sacrifice. Ariel gives up her voice, her identity, for love, and later finds her way back when true love wins.
• Speculative Meaning: The ending speculates on the importance of choice and consequence. Ariel’s choices lead her to happiness, implying that bravery can result in rewarding outcomes.

Loose Ends and Payoffs Resolved

• Ariel’s conflict with her father, King Triton, resolves as he finally accepts her choice of love over tradition.
• Ursula’s threat is eliminated. The climax protects the kingdom and resolves the tension created by her villainy.
• Ariel’s need for identity is satisfied as she fully becomes a human, thus concluding her character arc.

Character Changes

• Ariel: She grows from a curious, naive girl into a powerful individual who understands the value of love and sacrifice.
• King Triton: He evolves from a controlling father to one who recognizes his daughter’s independence, showing personal growth in acceptance.
• Prince Eric: He transitions from an unaware prince to a decisive partner, ready to fight for Ariel and their happiness.

Lessons for Writers

• Character Growth: Show clear changes in characters throughout the story. Give them challenges that shape their decisions.
• Resolution of Conflicts: Ensure that all major conflicts have satisfying resolutions, not leaving loose ends.
• Symbolism: Use symbolism cleverly to convey deeper meanings. Ariel’s voice is a strong symbol of self-identity.
• Theme Clarity: Reinforce central themes throughout the narrative to tie the story together by the end.

Final Thoughts

Ending with a celebration gives stories an uplifting feeling. It leaves an impression on the audience, assuring them that dreams can come true with love and perseverance. Ariel’s journey resonates with the universal themes of love and transformation—ideal for writers to emulate.

Dialogue Style Summary in The Little Mermaid

The dialogue in The Little Mermaid blends whimsical fantasy with emotional depth. Characters often use simple yet impactful language, ideal for conveying both humor and dramatic tension. The conversations reflect the characters’ desires and conflicts, particularly the yearning for freedom and understanding. The dialogue fluctuates between playful banter, poignant moments, and musical rhythm, especially during song sequences.

Examples of Dialogue

1. Ariel: “But I don’t have anything to wear!”
2. Sebastian: “Ariel, you’ve got to stay close to your family.”
3. Ursula: “I’m not a monster; I’m a businesswoman!”

Quintessential Character Moment

A defining moment for Ariel occurs when she first meets Prince Eric. The dialogue captures her fascination with him and her internal struggle. The simplicity of her lines, “He’s so… handsome,” conveys deep emotion. This moment epitomizes her desire for a different life and the risks she is willing to take.

Iconic Lines

• “Part of your world.” – Ariel
• “Under the sea, darling, it’s better, down where it’s wetter.” – Sebastian
• “The sea witch is going to get you!” – Flounder

Unique Aspects of Dialogue

The dialogue’s uniqueness lies in its blend of musical elements with spoken language. Characters often express their feelings through song, enhancing emotional connection. The use of metaphor and double entendres adds depth, especially in scenes involving Ursula, as her dialogue is often laced with menace disguised as charm.

Dialogue Density

The script is dialogue-heavy, with interactions driving the plot. Songs intersperse the spoken lines, creating a rhythmic flow that keeps the audience engaged. Key scenes involve continuous dialogue, ensuring that character development happens organically through conversation.

Realism of Dialogue

The dialogue is not strictly realistic; it serves the narrative’s fairy-tale tone. Characters express emotions in heightened ways, making speech sound dramatic and theatrical. Nevertheless, moments of vulnerability and conflict offer relatable sentiments, anchoring the fantastical elements with human experiences.

Lessons for Writers

Writers can learn to keep dialogue concise and impactful. Use dialogue to reveal character motivations and feelings. Embrace simplicity, as straightforward lines can carry significant emotional weight. Incorporate musicality in dialogue – rhythm and flow keep the audience engaged.

Scene Walkthrough: Ariel’s Transformation

In the scene where Ariel trades her voice for legs, the dialogue showcases desperation and the theme of sacrifice. The exchange with Ursula is critical.

ACT 1: Setting the Stage for Unique Lessons

The Little Mermaid isn’t just a tale about a girl wanting to leave the ocean. It’s a dense narrative full of lessons that writers can grasp and utilize in their own stories.

LESSON 1: Desire as a Driving Force

Ariel’s longing for the human world drives the entire plot. Make your characters’ desires clear and compelling. Use desire to create tension and push your narrative forward.

LESSON 2: The Cost of Choices

Ariel trades her voice for legs. This choice carries heavy consequences. Explore your characters’ choices and show the fallout. Don’t shy away from showing how a single decision can spiral into larger conflicts.

LESSON 3: Complex Villains

Ursula isn’t just evil; she has a backstory and motivations. Develop your antagonists with depth. They should have reasons for their actions that resonate with the audience, creating layers in the storytelling.

ACT 2: Exploring Themes and Character Development

LESSON 4: The Theme of Transformation

The physical transformation of Ariel—from mermaid to human—mirrors her emotional transformation. Show characters evolving not just through events but also internally. Their growth should feel earned and reflective of their experiences.

LESSON 5: The Power of Voice and Silence

Ariel loses her voice to pursue her goal. Use silence effectively in your writing. Sometimes, what isn’t said carries more weight. It can create tension, highlight internal struggles, or emphasize a transformative moment.

LESSON 6: Pivotal Moments of Realization

Ariel learns that dreams have sacrifices. Key moments of realization or awakening can serve as turning points. Make these moments impactful and relatable. They can anchor the audience to the character’s journey.

ACT 3: Relationships and Emotional Stakes

LESSON 7: Strong Relationships

The bond between Ariel and her father, King Triton, showcases both conflict and love. Relationships should shape character arcs. Use them to explore themes, reveal motivations, and challenge characters.

LESSON 8: Romantic Relationships as Catalysts

Eric acts as a catalyst for Ariel’s transformation. Romantic relationships should enhance character development. They mustn’t just serve as side plots; they should resonate with the main theme of the story.

LESSON 9: The Role of Friendship

Ariel’s friends Flounder and Sebastian provide humor and support. Friends can add layers to your story. Use them to highlight character traits, provide emotional support, or inject levity when the plot gets heavy.

ACT 4: The Power of Setting and World-Building

LESSON 10: Crystal Clear World-Building

The contrast between the underwater kingdom and the human world enriches the story. Make your settings vibrant and integral. They should reflect thematic elements or character emotions, enhancing engagement.

LESSON 11: Crafting Atmosphere

Scenes like the Under the Sea song establish tone and atmosphere. Use atmosphere to give life to your narrative. It should reflect character experiences and heighten emotional stakes.

LESSON 12: Symbolism in the Mundane

The fork (dinglehopper) becomes a symbol for Ariel’s fascination with humans. Embed symbolism in everyday objects. It adds richness and a layer of meaning to your story.

ACT 5: Narration Techniques and Story Structure

LESSON 13: Use Foreshadowing Effectively

Ursula’s plot to use Ariel is hinted at early on. Foreshadowing can build anticipation. Use it to connect subplots and main plots, leading readers down a path of discovery before the big reveal.

LESSON 14: Pacing and Rhythm

The Little Mermaid maintains an effective rhythm between light-hearted moments and serious themes. Keep your narrative dynamic. Vary pacing to maintain interest and provide a satisfying flow to your plot.

LESSON 15: Leverage Musicality in Language

The songs and dialogues carry a lyrical quality that enhances the storytelling. Consider the rhythm and sound of your words. Language should elevate the narrative and can be a tool for emotion.

ACT 6: Moral and Ethical Themes

LESSON 16: The Complication of Morality

Ariel’s choices aren’t clear cut. Explore moral ambiguity in your characters’ decisions. Show that good and evil are not always black and white, leading to more compelling narratives.

LESSON 17: Environmental Themes

The ocean’s degradation mirrors Ariel’s personal struggle. Use your narrative to address larger themes subtly. They can serve as a backdrop that adds depth without overwhelming the main story.

LESSON 18: Challenging Societal Norms

Ariel breaks away from her prescribed role as a princess. Challenge societal norms in your writing. Use your characters’ journeys to question established conventions and propose alternatives.

ACT 7: The Culmination and Reflection

LESSON 19: The Importance of Closure

The story resolves with Ariel gaining her voice and her love. Ensure your narratives provide closure. Readers should feel satisfied that arcs are completed and character growth is acknowledged.

LESSON 20: Embrace the Unexpected

Ariel’s turn of fortune by the end surprises yet aligns with the story. Don’t be afraid to take risks with your plot. Sometimes the unexpected outcomes can resonate the strongest with audiences.

ACT 8: Revising and Refining Your Craft

LESSON 21: The Value of Collaboration

The film benefits from the collaboration of writers, animators, and composers. Recognize the strength of collaboration in your writing process. Outsider insights may elevate your work beyond expectations.

LESSON 22: Keep it Personal

Ariel’s dreams reflect deep personal desires and struggles. Infuse your writing with personal significance. Authenticity attracts readers and creates more relatable narratives.

LESSON 23: Stay Open to Change

The narrative underwent many changes during development. Be prepared to revise and adapt. Flexibility in storytelling can enhance and refine the end product.

ACT 9: Final Thoughts and Takeaways

LESSON 24: Embrace the Journey

Ariel’s journey is filled with ups and downs. Celebrate the journey in your writing, not just the destination. It’s the experiences that shape your characters and resonate with your audience.

LESSON 25: Lessons in Legacy

The Little Mermaid has left a lasting impact on multiple generations. Write with an understanding that your work may extend beyond your expectations. Aim to create something influential that can endure.

Discography of Ron Clements and John Musker

Ron Clements and John Musker are renowned American filmmakers known for their significant contributions to animated films at Disney.

Key Films

• The Little Mermaid (1989) – A tale of a mermaid princess who dreams of becoming human.
• Aladdin (1992) – A street-smart youth discovers a magical lamp and a genie who grants him wishes.
• Pocahontas (1995) – A romantic story of a Native American woman and English settler John Smith.
• The Princess and the Frog (2009) – A modern twist on the classic fairy tale set in New Orleans.
• Moana (2016) – An adventurous journey of a girl determined to save her island with the help of a demigod.

Notable Collaborations

• The Great Mouse Detective (1986) – While not co-directed, they contributed to the story.
• Home on the Range (2004) – Although they did not direct, they contributed as writers.

Writer’s Style

Ron Clements and John Musker’s writing style is characterized by strong character development, humor, and engaging storytelling that appeals to both children and adults.