Common Sense Media Review
Superb, entertaining animated musical has some scary stuff.
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The Little Mermaid
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 69 parent reviews
Parents say the movie features beautiful animation and catchy songs but has received criticism for its messaging concerning relationships and parental disobedience, with many questioning its appropriateness for young viewers. While some reviewers cherish it as a classic and appreciate Ariel's adventurous spirit, others feel it promotes negative lessons about self-sacrifice for romance and contains elements that may be too frightening or suggestive for children.
- scary elements
- questionable messaging
- strong visuals
- mixed parenting views
- classic appeal
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
Based on 96 kid reviews
Kids say that this animated classic is adored for its catchy songs and memorable characters, yet it sparks controversy over its themes and role models, particularly Ariel's decisions and her relationship with her father. Many reviews suggest it's enjoyable for younger audiences, but some scenes, such as those involving Ursula, are considered too scary for sensitive children.
- catchy songs
- scary scenes
- controversial role models
- enjoyable for kids
- concerns about messages
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
THE LITTLE MERMAID tells the story of Ariel (voiced by Jodi Benson), a mermaid princess who's fascinated by humans, collecting their artifacts that she finds in the sea. One day, she rescues Prince Eric (Christopher Daniel Barnes), who was thrown from his ship during a storm -- and she falls in love. Desperate for the chance to have a life with Eric, Ariel enters into an agreement with a sea witch, Ursula (Pat Carroll). Ariel gives up her voice in exchange for legs, hoping to win Eric and become part of his world. But she only has three days to seal the deal. If he doesn't kiss her in that time, she'll belong to Ursula forever.
Is It Any Good?
After some lackluster years, Disney came back into the top rank of animated features with this superbly entertaining musical. Based loosely on the fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen (but with a much happier ending), The Little Mermaid's princess was refreshingly plucky when the movie came out in 1989. Though Ariel still must wait for a prince's kiss for her dreams to come true, she shows spirit and curiosity, taking action in order to meet him.
The wonderful voice cast includes Buddy Hackett (The Music Man) as Scuttle the scavenging seagull and Samuel E. Wright as Sebastian, the calypso-singing crab. The first-class musical score by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman (who also worked together on the off-Broadway hit Little Shop of Horrors) ranks with the best of Broadway and won Oscars for Best Score and Best Song ("Under the Sea"). While The Little Mermaid does provide yet another wasp-waisted Disney princess whose whole world revolves around a man, Ariel is adventuresome, rebellious, and brave. And the fact that she makes the mistake of giving up her voice to the sea witch (a very strong female character, to say the least), provides a good opportunity for family discussion.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about villains and how The Little Mermaid portrays Ursula. Why is she both a little scary and a little fun?
Why do you think Ariel chooses to give up her voice (and her family) for Eric in The Little Mermaid? Are you troubled by the message her decision sends about women and their priorities, or is that overthinking this kind of movie?
Talk about Disney princesses. How often do you see your favorite princesses on display when you're shopping? Does watching this movie make you want to buy more Ariel stuff?
Why do you think Sebastian tries to help Ariel even though he doesn't agree with what she's doing?
How do the characters in The Little Mermaid demonstrate curiosity and perseverance? Why are these important character strengths?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 15, 1989
- On DVD or streaming : October 1, 2013
- Cast : Jodi Benson , Christopher Daniel Barnes , Samuel E. Wright
- Directors : Ron Clements , John Musker
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Walt Disney Pictures
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic , Fairy Tales ) , Book Characters , Arts ( Music and Sing-Along ) , Animals ( Ocean Creatures )
- Character Strengths : Curiosity , Perseverance
- Run time : 83 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : Nada que pueda ofender a los padres para ser visto por los niños.
- Last updated : January 20, 2026
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